Learning and Teaching Unit
Studying at university offers a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. People from many different backgrounds, ages, countries, and languages live in Adelaide and there are frequent opportunities for you get to know them. Below are listed five steps to help you to make friends with some of these people:
You can begin meeting other students by attending orientation activities. Keep in mind that others are also new to the university and are interested in meeting new people. Many of them will also be wondering where to meet people and will be pleased to have someone approach them in a friendly manner. A good strategy is to introduce yourself to a few people, and then say hello to them when you see them again.
When the study period begins you will be able to get to know people in your lectures, seminars and tutorials. People who are taking the same program or courses often have similar interests and it is possible to make enduring and close friendships with fellow university students.
Another way to meet people and build up a network is by living with other students. You can share accommodation with local students or move into a students’ residence or a residential college. You can find information about accommodation at the University of South Australia Accommodation Services
If you want to meet new people and get fit at the same time you can use the privately run sports centres on campus at Magill, City East and Mawson Lakes where there are courts and fields for hire, equipment, machines, and instructors.
UniLife offers a range of services and facilities including access to sporting clubs and group activities. In addition there are various non-sporting clubs and societies at UniSA where you can meet other people who have similar interests to you.
You can meet other people off campus through participating in a variety of activities and programs.
Sporting clubs, social clubs, religious or cultural organisations can be a starting point for getting out and about. There may be a group in the community that has activities of interest to you. For example if you have played a sport for your town or local area or been a member of a youth club you will have knowledge and skills which will help you become part of a new group very quickly. Or you might want to try something new. Organisations and clubs will welcome your interest. Many clubs are listed in the Yellow Pages. Your local town or city council may also have a directory of services and activities which lists the clubs and societies close to where you live. And you can check out Adelaide City Council's Study Adelaide site for information about events, recreation and entertainment for students new to Adelaide.
When you work with people in paid employment you have common experiences and often make friendships. You can look for part-time work which fits in with your studies through the University's Career Services. You can also explore the Study Adelaide website
Working as a volunteer is an excellent way of meeting new people while contributing in a positive way to your local community. It provides you with the opportunity to develop and practice new skills or to maintain existing ones. Volunteers are needed in many welfare and sporting agencies and organizations (e.g Adelaide Zoo, Youth Conservation Corps, Wilderness Society) and there are people who can help you identify your interests. You can find more information at the site for South Australia volunteers site.
