Digital UMISA

Starting university at University of Malaya can feel exciting, but also a little overwhelming, especially when it comes to making new friends. As a new student, I quickly realized that friendships don’t just happen instantly. They take small efforts, shared moments, and a bit of stepping out of your comfort zone.

## Building Connections in Class

One of the easiest ways to start building connections is during classes. At first, it might feel awkward to talk to the person sitting next to you, but something as simple as asking about an assignment or discussing lecture content can open the door to conversation. Over time, these small interactions can turn into familiar faces and eventually, friendships. Group assignments also helped me a lot because they encouraged me to communicate and collaborate with people I wouldn’t normally approach.

## Joining Campus Activities

Another important place to meet people is through campus activities. UM offers a wide range of clubs, events, and programs, and joining even one can make a big difference. Whether it’s a sports club, a cultural society, or an academic organization, being part of a shared interest makes conversations feel more natural. It also creates opportunities to spend time together outside of class, which helps friendships grow faster.

## Using Student Communities

For me, one of the most helpful tools was the University of Malaya International Student Association group chat, especially the forums and lounge sections. These spaces made it easier to connect with other students in a more relaxed and informal way. People would ask questions, share experiences, or just casually chat about daily life. It felt less intimidating than approaching someone in person because everyone was there for the same reason, to connect.

Through these conversations, I was able to recognize names, start small interactions, and eventually feel more comfortable meeting people on campus.

## Everyday Opportunities

I also found that everyday spaces like cafeterias, study areas, and even waiting outside lecture halls created natural opportunities to talk to others. Sometimes, just being present and open to conversation is enough. Not every interaction needs to be perfect or deep. Even small, casual conversations can slowly turn into meaningful friendships.

## Overcoming Challenges

Of course, making friends as a new or international student can come with its challenges. There may be differences in language, culture, or personality, and it is normal to feel unsure at times. However, I realized that many people around me felt the same way. Taking small steps, like starting a conversation or joining a discussion, often made things easier than expected.

## Conclusion

In the end, making friends at UM is not about having a large group, but about finding people you feel comfortable with. It takes time, patience, and effort, but it is definitely worth it. Looking back, the friendships I formed became one of the most meaningful parts of my university experience.

Starting university at University of Malaya can feel exciting, but also a little overwhelming, especially when it comes to making new friends. As a new student, I quickly realized that friendships don’t just happen instantly. They take small efforts, shared moments, and a bit of stepping out of your comfort zone. ## Building Connections in Class One of the easiest ways to start building connections is during classes. At first, it might feel awkward to talk to the person sitting next to you, but something as simple as asking about an assignment or discussing lecture content can open the door to conversation. Over time, these small interactions can turn into familiar faces and eventually, friendships. Group assignments also helped me a lot because they encouraged me to communicate and collaborate with people I wouldn’t normally approach. ## Joining Campus Activities Another important place to meet people is through campus activities. UM offers a wide range of clubs, events, and programs, and joining even one can make a big difference. Whether it’s a sports club, a cultural society, or an academic organization, being part of a shared interest makes conversations feel more natural. It also creates opportunities to spend time together outside of class, which helps friendships grow faster. ## Using Student Communities For me, one of the most helpful tools was the University of Malaya International Student Association group chat, especially the forums and lounge sections. These spaces made it easier to connect with other students in a more relaxed and informal way. People would ask questions, share experiences, or just casually chat about daily life. It felt less intimidating than approaching someone in person because everyone was there for the same reason, to connect. Through these conversations, I was able to recognize names, start small interactions, and eventually feel more comfortable meeting people on campus. ## Everyday Opportunities I also found that everyday spaces like cafeterias, study areas, and even waiting outside lecture halls created natural opportunities to talk to others. Sometimes, just being present and open to conversation is enough. Not every interaction needs to be perfect or deep. Even small, casual conversations can slowly turn into meaningful friendships. ## Overcoming Challenges Of course, making friends as a new or international student can come with its challenges. There may be differences in language, culture, or personality, and it is normal to feel unsure at times. However, I realized that many people around me felt the same way. Taking small steps, like starting a conversation or joining a discussion, often made things easier than expected. ## Conclusion In the end, making friends at UM is not about having a large group, but about finding people you feel comfortable with. It takes time, patience, and effort, but it is definitely worth it. Looking back, the friendships I formed became one of the most meaningful parts of my university experience.

Making Friends at UM: A Guide for New Students

Making Friends at UM: A Guide for New Students