The prospect of university life is exciting and important as it gives us the chance for a fresh start. It might not always be because of a new city or subject, but one thing is certain and that’s that you’ll have the opportunity to meet a lot of new people.
We all want to be liked but sometimes a bad first impression can really mess this up for us, through no real fault of our own. The worse news is that it can also take a lot of work to recover from a bad impression.
The great news, on the other hand, is that we at UnCOVered have put together a few things to think about when it comes to meeting new people at university.
1. Body Language
It might all sound a bit hippy-ish but it’s important to give out good, positive energy before you even say a word to someone. The simplest things like standing or sitting up straight and smiling can give you an immediately likeable quality.
So the next time you’re looking disinterested or have a scowl painted all over your face, have a think about the impression you’re giving off. It could be a real deal-breaker.
2. Speech
Ok here comes a cliché, you have been warned! You may have already asked friends and family these kind of questions in the past: “should I have said this?”, “why didn’t so and so like that?” and the like… However, these problems often stem from the age-old adage that it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.
Our tone, pitch, speech patterns and volume all play a big part in what we’re saying, sometimes even more so than the words themselves! Don’t be afraid to say if you think something might’ve come out wrong, or your meaning has been a bit muddled. And don’t rely on the fact that everyone knows it’s “just banter, mate”.
3. Clothing
Annoying as it is sometimes, people really do make lasting opinions of us because of the way we look. However, keeping on top of your wardrobe can easily help you when it comes to making a good impression. And don’t get confused, this doesn’t mean running out every five seconds to follow the latest trend or changing your style at all. If you’ve got that favourite jacket you always wear, own it. Can’t get enough of black skinny jeans? Cool, me neither. What’s important is the presentation.
Pick out an outfit the night before and stick to it. Make sure it co-ordinates nicely, you feel confident in it, it’s ironed and, most importantly, clean! (More on that later). If you’re struggling for inspiration there’re tons of pages online and on social media that can help you put outfits together or inspire a fresh style to go with your fresh start.
4. Hygiene
Ok, so it’s one thing to look like a bit of a shaggy mess, but it’s another to smell like one! When first impressions count the most, it’s not a time you can afford to skip the shower. Get up early and get yourself looking and feeling sharp.
Make sure your clothes are fresh and the little details are taken care of too. Clean shoes, neat fingernails and well-groomed hair count for more than you might think, don’t sacrifice them for a few more minutes in bed.
5. Drinking
The majority of Freshers’ events in the evening are going to involve alcohol, and whether you partake in this or smash a lemonade is up to you. But, if you are going to get involved with the booze, be aware that you’re still making a first impression.
It’s really tough to come back from being known as the guy who passed out naked in Far Gosford Street, or the girl who wet herself dancing on a table. You’ve got three years of fun and parties ahead of you, you don’t have to cram it all into one night! Get to know your limits and when you’ve had enough for one night, take it easy. There’s nothing better than a great night out with friends, so have a blast but just remember how easy it can be for things to go wrong.
