An introvert's guide to settling into university

By Majka Ciepielewska, August 2025

I moved to university from a small town with only two schools and not much going on - where everyone kind of knew everyone. So, moving to Lancaster was a big shift. Before university, I wasn’t into nights out and would much rather stay home drawing, reading, or doing my own thing.

Starting university can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re coming from a quieter background. Suddenly you’re surrounded by hundreds of students - more than your entire school year - bustling lecture halls, lively flats, and constant events.

And if you're introverted like me? It can feel like...a lot.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. I found my rhythm here, and so will you. Here's my honest guide to settling into university as an introvert.

Choose calm, small-space meetups first

Inviting a few flatmates or classmates for a coffee or study session can be way less intimidating than showing up to a big event or party. Lancaster has plenty of great spaces to do just that. Try Coastal & Co cafe on campus or book a study space in the library or LEC atrium for casual group work.

Prefer to go into town? Cosy cafes like Holm, Tuck, and The Music Room are quieter spots that feel less intense than larger places.

Getting to know your flatmates can be the easiest first step- they’re right there and just as new as you are! In my first year, my flat chipped in to buy a small portable projector, and we spent our evenings watching the entire Harry Potter film series together in the kitchen. It was a great way to bond as a group without going out or hitting the clubs, which really wasn’t my thing. That kind of shared experience gave us all something to talk about- and it didn’t require being loud or outgoing.

And if you don’t instantly click with your flatmates, that’s totally okay. There are plenty of other ways to connect.

If you need some extra advice, you can read student Lyea's blog about finding your people and making friends at university.

Join a society that matches you

Lancaster has societies for everything- from Taylor Swift and anime to crafting, film, LEGO, and even living history. Joining a society gives you an easy way to meet people who already share something in common with you. That first connection? Already there.

I joined the Anime & Manga Society with my flatmate in my first year at Lancaster and met some incredibly welcoming people who made me feel like I belonged. Having weekly events with the same group gave me both consistency and comfort, and it became something I genuinely looked forward to. It even helped me get closer to my flatmate - we shared the same interest and had fun together doing something we enjoyed.

I also tried out the Living History Society a few times. While I didn’t end up sticking with it (it just wasn’t quite my thing), it was still a fun experience, and I got to meet new people and learn something different. It reminded me that it's perfectly okay to try something, realise it's not for you, and move on.

The best part? No one expects you to change or be someone you're not. You can lean into your interests and find others who love the same things.

Protect your energy - it's okay to rest

Your social battery matters. Being around people 24/7, even if they're great, can be draining. Remember that rest is part of the process.

Some of my favourite recharge rituals?

• Taking solo walks along the canal near Aldi or exploring Williamson Park
• Sitting with a book or sketchpad in a quiet nook on campus
• Going on little “me-dates” for coffee or ice cream
• Watching my comfort shows or films

Personally, whenever I’m stressed or deep in coursework or exam prep, I always take a break to go for a walk. It gives me fresh air, a chance to move around, and space to clear my head. Sometimes, it's the only time in the day that's completely mine, and that makes a big difference. Recharging helps me focus better and feel calmer when I return to work or social settings.

So don’t feel guilty for needing space. It’s normal, necessary, and healthy.

You can read more in student Anna's blog about getting outdoors and the lake district.

Push yourself, but kindly

It’s okay if you’re not ready to dive into everything right away. The key? Gentle challenges that stretch you without overwhelming you.

• Go to a society session- just once. You don’t have to commit to every week.
• Say hi to someone in your seminar- you might end up with a study buddy.
• Show up to a party for 30 minutes- you can always leave early.
• Explore town on your own to build confidence in your surroundings.

You don’t have to change who you are. You just need to give yourself a little nudge forward. I used to overthink every conversation, every hello. But each small risk I took, whether it was going to that first society meeting or chatting to someone in class, helped me grow more comfortable over time.

The trick is pushing yourself occasionally, not constantly. It’s a balance — and you’ll find it.

Lancaster is for you just as you are

University isn’t just for extroverts. It’s for all of us. Lancaster is a friendly, welcoming community, and you’ll find your rhythm here. Whether it’s through your course, your flat, a shared hobby, or a quiet walk by the canal, there are plenty of ways to connect, belong, and thrive.

There’s no pressure to rush, no need to become someone you’re not. Take your time, lean into what makes you feel comfortable, and trust that the right people and spaces will come into your life. Lancaster is full of them.

Final thoughts

Starting university as an introvert can feel like a big leap, especially if you're coming from a smaller or quieter place, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With time, gentle effort, and staying true to yourself, you’ll settle in and start to feel at home.

Lancaster has a space for everyone, whether you thrive in quiet corners, niche societies, or one-on-one connections. You don’t have to change who you are to belong here. You’ll find your people, your pace, and your place.