Making friends and settling in
It’s completely normal to feel a little homesick, and you need to give yourself time to adjust. For students coming to the UK from overseas, we know that it can also be challenging and a little overwhelming at times.
Whether you’re new to NTU or returning there are always opportunities to try new experiences and meet new people. Getting involved in Welcome activities is a great way to start.
Looking after yourself and others
University life is exciting, but can come with its own challenges. Our Health and Wellbeing service ensures that you can find the right help at the right time to help tackle whatever issues you might be encountering. If you think a friend might be struggling, ask them if they’re okay and get the conversation going.
It's ok to ask for help if you need it or tell us if you're worried about a friend – remember, we’re here for you.
There are plenty of ways to meet new people
- If you're looking to find your flatmates – or just chat with likeminded people before you arrive – then join us on social media. There are over 200 social media accounts connected to NTU, and groups for each one of our halls of residence.
- Go to as many of our Welcome events as you can. With so much to get involved with, they're perfect ice-breakers.
- Attend your course induction – meet the people who you’ll be learning alongside for the next few years.
- Do your bit to make your new home a happy one – chat to everyone you see if you're living in accommodation. Bond over a cup of tea, and don’t be afraid to knock on your neighbour’s door. If you don’t live in halls, our Welcome events are there to keep you included!
At NTU there are so many different societies to join, including international societies, and there is such a good balance of students that you are able to make friends with.
Afonso, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
Find out how our students settled in to student life
Getting involved at NTU
Coming to University isn't just about studying. Throwing yourself into something beyond the classroom can be an unforgettable part of your NTU experience. It’s the perfect time to try something new – to broaden your horizons, meet new people, and develop the skills that’ll set you up for life.
NTU Arts
NTU Arts offers activities and events for all tastes and talents. From bands to book clubs, crafting to concerts we’ll help you broaden your creative horizons.
Study abroad as part of your NTU degree
Our study abroad opportunities offer you a flexible way to gain invaluable international experience as part of your degree. We have partnerships with over 300 institutions worldwide – study from one week to a whole year.
Sport
With sports clubs, scholarships, gyms and a range of fitness classes, there's something for all abilities – whether you’re an expert or a complete beginner.
Volunteering
Teach, coach, mentor, manage; be a fundraiser – or simply just a friend – for someone or something that really needs your help.
Societies
From K-Pop to knitting, belly dance to bowling - with over 100 societies you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding what to get involved in here at NTU.
NTU Faith and NTU Chaplaincy
Whatever your denomination, we welcome you to get involved with NTU Faith and NTU Chaplaincy - our services for supporting faith, spirituality and wellbeing amongst all students and staff.
Your Students’ Union
With its exciting entertainment, social, sports and leisure spaces, NTSU is run by students, for students. It’s the heart of student life!
Help the environment at NTU
NTU is one of the most sustainable universities in the world. Help us to keep making a difference for the University, for our local communities, and for the planet.
Working while you study
NTU's very own JobShop is a great resource for finding paid work in and around the city – you'll find hundreds of opportunities across a huge range of sectors.
We also offer paid opportunities right here at NTU, from becoming a Student Ambassador to working as a Global Lounge assistant, or a Student Mentor – there’s plenty of available jobs to fit around your studies and it looks great on your CV. Visit the Unitemps site for further details and available vacancies.
Our Employability Team are here to help you throughout your time with us, and for up to three years after you graduate. They can support you with:
- jobs and opportunities,
- applications and interviews,
- placements and work experience,
- you can attend events, like job fairs and skills workshops.
Talk to them via their live chat on their dedicated employability website.
Social media groups
Joining our social media groups is a great way to get a taste of student life and start meeting new people.
A-Z list of Halls Facebook groups
The School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences
The School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment
Nottingham School of Art & Design
The School of Arts and Humanities
Centre for Broadcasting & Journalism
NTU Mansfield
Nottingham Business School
Nottingham Institute of Education
Nottingham Law School
The School of Science and Technology
The School of Social Sciences
Nottingham Trent Students' Union (NTSU) societies
NTU Music
NTU Sport