Navigating Relationships at University: Friends, Flatmates, and More

Starting university is an exciting time, especially in a vibrant city like London. If you're at UCL, you're already at the heart of it all. But with the buzz of enrolment, freshers’ events, and figuring out where to buy the cheapest groceries, one thing that often stands out is relationships. From forming friendships to sharing spaces with flatmates and everything in between, navigating these connections is essential to the university experience.

Friends: Building Your Circle

Making friends at university can feel daunting, but the good news is that everyone else is in the same boat. Fresher's Week is the perfect time to meet people through student societies, course meet-ups, or even the flat kitchen (where all the best bonding tends to happen).

At UCL, joining societies is a big deal. Whether you're into debating, rock climbing, or Harry Potter, there's a group for everyone. These societies aren’t just a way to explore your interests—they’re also where friendships tend to flourish. And don’t overlook those quieter moments; sometimes, the person sitting next to you in a lecture can turn out to be your closest uni mate.

If you’re struggling to form connections right away, don’t worry—it’s normal. Some people find their crowd early on, while others take a little longer. Relationships often grow naturally over time, so keep an open mind and allow yourself to settle at your own pace.

Flatmates: Sharing Spaces and Respecting Boundaries

Living with strangers can be one of the most interesting and challenging parts of the university. At UCL, many first-year students live in halls, so your flatmates are often the first people you meet. It’s natural to want to form close bonds, remember that everyone adjusts to communal living differently.

Open communication is key. Establishing ground rules for things like cleaning and noise early on can prevent unnecessary tension later. If someone leaves a mountain of dishes in the sink, it’s better to bring it up politely than to let resentment brew. Respecting each other’s space goes a long way, too—some flatmates will want to hang out constantly, while others might prefer a bit more distance. Both approaches are okay as long as there’s mutual understanding.

Romantic Relationships: Balancing Life and Love

The university is often when many people start exploring romantic relationships. With London’s energy as your backdrop, it’s easy to get caught up in whirlwind romances. However, managing a relationship alongside studies, part-time jobs, and social life can be tricky.

One personal experience that taught me a lot was meeting someone in my accommodation who I really liked. I hesitated, unsure if I was confident enough to pursue anything. Over time, I realised that though I liked her, we probably weren’t the perfect fit. It wasn’t easy to accept, but looking back, I’m glad I took the time to figure it out without forcing anything.

Here’s the thing, romantic relationships should add to your experience, not overwhelm it. Take your time, be honest with yourself, and don’t be afraid to step back if something doesn’t feel quite right. University is all about learning, and that includes learning what works for you in relationships.

Cultural Diversity and London Living

UCL is famously multicultural, opening the door to relationships with people from all over the world. Learning about different cultures, traditions, and perspectives can be one of the most enriching parts of university life. Be open-minded, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.

Living in London also means plenty of opportunities for group outings. Whether it’s a walk along the Thames, exploring Camden Market, or unwinding in Regent’s Park, the city offers countless ways to bond with the people around you.

When Things Don’t Go to Plan

Not all relationships go smoothly, and that’s okay. Misunderstandings happen, and sometimes friendships or flatmate dynamics don’t work out. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, UCL’s Student Support and Wellbeing Team is there to listen. Whether you need advice on resolving a conflict or just someone to talk to, they’re a great resource. Don't be discouraged even if you don’t form the relationships you hoped for during your first year.

University is a long journey, and it’s never too late to meet new people. Many students find their closest friends later in their course, whether through group projects, society events, or even post-graduate study. Take it at your own pace; there’s no “right” timeline for settling in.

Final Thoughts

Navigating relationships at university is a learning curve, but it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. Whether it’s the late-night conversations with flatmates or the friends who stick by you through deadlines, these connections shape your time at UCL.

Take your time, be kind, and remember everyone’s figuring it out, just like you. After all, the beauty of university life is that it’s as much about the people you meet as the lessons you learn.

Resources

• Clubs and Societies
• Support and Wellbeing Services

Image Credit

Photographer: Sophie Mitchell
Copyright: © Sophie Mitchell