Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
6 ways to make friends as an international student
Studying in a new country is an exciting opportunity to meet new people. But moving away from home and settling into a new environment can also be a little intimidating. The first thing to remember is that you are not alone!
Your fellow students are in the same situation as you, and most of them are just as excited to make friends as you are. Plus, our super-friendly Global Village team is here to help you quickly become part of the #BeckettGlobal community.
1) International Welcome Events
When you arrive at Leeds Beckett, you can take part in many International Welcome Events including campus and city walking tours, speed friending, and a welcome party! Hosted by our Global Village, these events will help you settle in and meet new people.
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2) Join our Global Buddies
If you're new to Leeds Beckett and want to:
- Find new friends
- Make the most of your time in the UK
- Improve your English
Then sign up to be matched with a Global Buddy! Your buddy will be a current student who will help you adjust to life in the UK, meet new friends and be part of your Leeds support network.
You can sign up to be matched with a Global Buddy.
If you're a current student who would like to volunteer to be a Global Buddy, please complete this volunteer form. Volunteers can be from the UK or overseas and will receive a certificate for volunteering.
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3) Get SocialÂ
We encourage you to connect with our Global Village. Our friendly team is here to help you settle into university life and make the most of your time in Leeds. You can get in touch with us at any time during the year!
#BeckettGlobal
My advice is to get involved as much as you can with social activities. Joining a society or volunteering are fantastic ways to make friends and has such a positive impact on your social life.
Join our Facebook group
If you haven't already, join our vibrant Facebook group for Leeds Beckett International applicants, students, and alumni to connect.
143
Did you know?
Leeds Beckett has students from over 143 different countries and territories.
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4) Join a society
Our Students’ Union is run by students like you. There are dozens of clubs, societies, and events based on your interests. It’s a great way to make new friends through virtual pub quizzes and online meetups! View the full list of societies on the Students’ Union website.
5) Get a gym membership
With a variety of fitness classes, our gyms are a great place to meet new people. You could book a tennis court with friends or take part in team games. This is a great way to socialise and keep fit! Learn more about gym memberships on our Sport and Active Lifestyles website.
As busy you'll be starting university and having fun with your new friends, don't forget to keep in touch with your family and friends from home!
How to stay connected with friends and family whilst at university Masters student Ning from Malaysia offers her tips on keeping in touch with friends and family back home.
6) Be a Student Ambassador
Many international students join our Student Ambassador programme. Get paid to get involved with university events, give campus tours to prospective students, and support your fellow international students before, during and after their time at Leeds Beckett! Many of our ambassadors make friends for life through this programme. We will recruit new ambassadors in October and February.
Get in touch by email to find out more.
