How To Make Friends Online: 6 Tips!

It’s safe to say that things are a little different at the moment in terms of socialising, COVID-19 has created a ‘new normal’ for us, and it’s deffo taking some getting used to!

If you’re starting university this academic year, you’re probably going to have to adapt some different ways of making new pals.

Don’t worry though, just because things may be a little different this year doesn’t mean you’re not going to have fun!

There are so many nifty new ways of socialising virtually that are super simple and fun, destined to make your uni experience more comfortable in an instant.

To give you a helping hand, we’ve compiled a list of 6 fabulous tips on how to make new friends at university virtually, so let’s get started!

1. Netflix Watching Party

Everyone loves a good Netflix sesh, because what’s better than bingeing your fave show tucked up in bed with a cheeky takeaway?

So, say hello to Netflix Party! A Chrome extension easily downloadable on your laptop, which lets you watch videos with your friends and chat together at the same time.

Social distancing may have meant many of us missing out on the usual group activity banter, but now you can do it online, and feel extra safe whilst doing so!

Just log in to your separate Netflix accounts, pick your movie or show of choice, and Netflix will sync the playback across all accounts.

There’s also a handy chat box function at the side of the screen, so you can chat and have a giggle in real time.

Popcorn at the ready!

2. Zoom Themed Quiz

Are you feeling brainy? Quizzes are a super fun way to get to know people, and brush up on your general knowledge in the process!

Why not set up a Zoom themed quiz with other students in your accommodation or on your course and really get to know them?

There are plenty of different themes to choose from, and you can use your imagination!

Whether Harry Potter is your niche, or you’re more of a Netflix show guru, get creative with your quiz themes and have some fun.

All you need to do is download Zoom, set up a new meeting and invite contacts via email where a request will be sent, simple!

3. Join A Facebook Group

Joining a private group on Facebook is always a great idea to get to know who you’re going to be living with, or who’s studying the same course as you!

If you can’t find a Facebook group related to your particular course or accommodation, why not create your own?

Granted, going to university can be a super nervy time, but having the chance to virtually meet your uni buddies will completely put you at ease.

As well as chatting via messenger, you can create video chats too!

Facebook has added a new wave of video-calling features to WhatsApp, Messenger, and its main app, where video calls can feature a whopping 50 people.

4. Zoom Karaoke Night

Warm up your vocal cords, because it’s time for a spot of Karaoke! What better way to break the ice than to sing your heart out to your fave song at virtual Karaoke?

It’s super simple to set up too, just set up a Zoom meeting via email, mute all the mics other than your own, and get singing.

Zoom Karaoke can be a good laugh, especially when there’s a few drinks involved, it’s a generally fabulous way to make new friends virtually whilst at university.

Just remember, you’re all in the same boat and it’s all a good bit of fun!

5. Join WeChat!

WeChat is super popular amongst international students, and is China’s most popular messaging app with a user base of more than 1 billion people!

It can be used for messaging, payments, games, and top-ups on your phone.

This particular app is a great way to get to know new students and feel right at home in an instant.

Whether you want to order some food, book a taxi, or socialise, WeChat has it all!

6. Virtual Bingo

Bingo is always good fun, especially when there are prizes to be won!

Why not set up your own virtual bingo game on Zoom? Head over to a Bingo card generator and create your Zoom meeting invite via email.

Select the number of cards you want to generate, and send the link to your university pals so they can play along.

Share your screen with everyone, so you can all keep track of called out numbers and new numbers, and let the games commence.

We Can Help You Have Fun!

Speak to a member of staff if you want to help to get the word out about your events, and don’t forget to follow your property Instagram account where you can find out about all the social events that will be running. Time to have some fun!