Starting university should be exciting but many Manchester students say the first weeks can feel isolating.
A recent survey by the charity Students Minds found that 37% of students has reported feeling lonely mostly during their first term. With over 100,000 students in Greater Manchester, the issue is widespread.
“Starting university is exciting but overwhelming,” said Leah Taylor, a first year at Manchester Metropolitan University. “Even in a crowd, it feels like no one knows you.”
Second and third year students found that the feeling is common, Mohammad Ahmed, now in third year says, “It took me a while to settle in but once I joined a society and got to know people in my course, things got much better.”
Universities and student unions say tackling isolation is a growing priority. A spokesman from the student union said joining societies and seeking wellbeing support are some ways that students can build connections.
Some students have even turned to social media to cope. Many have been tagging #studentloneliness reaching thousands of views, with freshers sharing the feeling of isolation in Manchester and students across the UK sharing experiences and advice.