Failing to find an amazing experience at university? You're not alone.

Robert Medhurst used up much of his orientation week looking at social media, reading posts about other students' fun nights out.

"I remained in my room," Robert recalls, describing the week as the most isolated period of his life.

Robert's flatmates didn't go out much, and his program didn't seem particularly social.

Even though he made efforts by going to taster sessions for different clubs, he couldn't find people he connected with.

"I began losing my self-esteem," he says. "It seemed that others weren't interested to be friends with me, or they didn't like me."

Digital Platform Contrasts

Initially, Robert didn't plan of studying at university and was offered positions for after sixth form.

Yet he observed his peers having great fun as students on Instagram.

"When you've got to get up for employment on weekdays at nine in the morning and you observe peers partied on the previous evening, you start feeling the grass is greener," Robert mentions.

University Expectations

Media content and online platforms can glorify the idea of university living.

Lots of people arrive at college with great anticipations for what they imagine could be the greatest period of their lives.

Some students arrive at college with "rose-tinted glasses," explains a counselling manager.

Survey Findings

• Through surveys of new students initially, the primary worry was fitting in and being accepted
• Additional research by market research agencies, nearly one-fifth of attendees said they lacked friendships at university
• 37% said they experienced concern frequently about making friends

Individual Stories

A different attendee's TikTok feed was filled with content of peers socializing while sharing accommodation in college residences.

Yet when she transferred from her hometown to university to learn reporting, she found initial days "overwhelming" because of the substance involvement it involved.

She abstains from alcohol and had avoided party scenes before.

"I actually passed a lot of freshers' week inside my accommodation," she says. "I merely sensed somewhat isolated."

Mental Health Considerations

In a 2025 survey of over ten thousand undergraduate students, a significant portion mentioned they had considered leaving university.

The most common reason was psychological wellbeing, followed by monetary worries.

"Concern over these various aspects is massively common, and typical," adds a mental health professional.

Identifying Resolutions

With time, all three individuals gradually adjusted and built connections.

She built connections through her course and using online platforms, while Christina felt happier when she could to relocate with companions.

Practical Advice

Regarding his experience, now 24 and in his concluding studies, it was participating in theater activities and getting a part-time job that assisted in relationship building.

Robert's advice to first-year students struggling to socialize is to venture outside your living space and participate in group trial sessions.

"After a few weeks of regular attendance, people recognise your face," Robert says, "you notice their presence, and you start making friends."