Icebreakers for you and your flatmates

Easy ways to help you build friendships at the start of uni

Starting university, while an exciting thing, can always bring up worries about academic pressure, budgeting money and making friends. 

Introducing yourself to new people can be a bit daunting at times, especially when you're stuck for what to say. But don't worry! We've got a few ideas on how you can break the ice with your flatmates in your first few days to help you all get comfortable and settle in together.

The unpacking conversation 🎒

Initial introductions with each other can be a little awkward, so here are a few questions to ask them. Remember, this is the first time you're engaging in a conversation, so you don't need to ask them anything too elaborate.

• What did you get up to over the summer?
• What course are you doing?
• What made you choose that?
• Do you have any hobbies?

And unpacking together reduces the social pressure, as you can say things like:

• "Oh, that's a cool T-shirt!"
• "I love the decorations you've brought."

Starting out with some light conversation eases the pressure and allows you both to feel relaxed, helping the conversation flow.

It's also important to remember that you might not click instantly with everyone, and that's completely normal. Over time, you'll naturally find shared interests, routines and activities that'll help you bond.

Movie nights 🍿

In your first conversations, you could mention a movie or TV show you've been obsessing over lately and see what shows/movies they're interested in. This can be a good, low-pressure way to make plans together and bond over some popcorn and snacks whilst watching your favourite characters.

Freshers' Week activities 🍸

Freshers' Week events and activities are bound to come up in conversation. You could look together at any upcoming events and see if any interest you. Whether it's a club night or something more relaxed on an afternoon, it's a great way to start making memories together!

Or if you already have plans to go to an event, invite them! Sometimes it can feel intimidating to go out and meet new people, so if you've already got someone to go with, especially when you live together, it can relieve a lot of social pressure and anxiety. It's a nice way for you both to ease into student life.

Check out our upcoming ResLife events for some low-pressure socialising:

The Great Flatmate Cook-Off 🍳

Why not offer to host a night of cooking between your flatmates? After all, it is a known fact that food brings people together! Whether you decide to cook one big meal and everyone makes a certain dish, or you make your own favourite dishes (you could prepare dishes from your hometowns), it can spark conversation and make everyone feel included. 

It's also a good idea if one or more of you are feeling homesick. Sitting down for a meal together (like a family) and making your own comfort meals can really help people feel at home and settle in.

Using icebreakers or asking a short question about your flatmate can help conversations flow better and make you both more open to talking. The first step is always scary, but it's the first step to bonding together and making so many memories!