Holding a good conversation

Welcome Week is fast approaching! There will be loads of opportunities to meet new people, whether that’s at Residence Life events, Student Union taster sessions, through your course, or simply by chatting to people you bump into around your accommodation.

You’ll probably find yourself asking (and being asked!) the same questions what feels like 100 times:

What are you studying? Where are you from? How are you finding your accommodation?

This kind of small talk might feel repetitive, but it plays an important role in helping you get to know people and start building connections that could turn into friendships.

That said, we know that starting conversations with new people isn’t always easy! Chatting to people in a way that leads to connection is a skill, and for many of us, it takes a bit of practice.

So, our Residence Life team have put their heads together to share some simple tips to help you feel more confident and make the most of those first interactions.

👍 Simple ways to start a conversation

Not sure how to get started? You don’t need anything clever; simple and friendly works best.

Try:

• “Hi, I think we’re in the same building, how are you finding it so far?”
• “Have you been to any events yet?"
• "Have you thought about joining any societies yet" 
• "What have you explored in Glasgow so far" 
• If you chat about weather, this can be a really good way of then asking about hobbies or weekend plans or the weather from their home country 

Chances are, the other person may be just as nervous and just as keen to chat, so just go for it!

💬 Keep it going (without overthinking it)

Once the conversation has started, you don’t need to carry it perfectly. Just focus on:

• Asking open questions (anything that can’t be answered with just “yes” or “no”)
• Showing interest in what the other person is saying
• Sharing a little about yourself too

Remember: conversations don’t need to be deep or long to be meaningful.

😅 If it feels awkward… that’s normal!

It’s completely normal for conversations to feel a bit awkward at first, especially during Welcome Week when everything is new. There might be some silences or pauses, but these can allow for other people to contribute to the conversation too so that's ok. 

Most people you meet will be feeling the same way, even if they don’t show it. A short chat, even if it’s a bit clunky, is still a great step.

🌍 Be open, kind and inclusive

You’ll be meeting people from lots of different places and backgrounds. Being open-minded and respectful goes a long way in helping everyone feel welcome.

A smile, a simple chat, or inviting someone to join you at an event can make a big difference.

🎉 Make the most of it

If you’re not sure where to meet people, our Residence Life events are a great place to start. They’re designed to be relaxed, social, and easy to join. Follow our Instagram (@UofGResLife) and keep an eye on the UofG Living Events page to not miss out. 

 Be patient with yourself 

It can be quite overwhelming and tiring at times to be meeting lots of new people. If you need some time to yourself that is ok too, we all need time to reset sometimes. 

If you're worried about meeting people and want to talk through any challenging feelings you have about this, our Welfare Team can be there for you as a supportive listening ear. Learn more about the Welfare Team here