In this era of social media, we’ve all become adept at online interaction. Our grandparents
marvel at our ability to juggle multiple conversations and connect with friends worldwide.
But let’s face it – when does our digital web of connections start feeling inadequate? Do
today’s freshers yearn for a more traditional sense of community?
Entering university, it’s hard not to be bombarded by an onslaught of posts and pictures
showcasing the university experience at its absolute, idealised best. If your older friend has
already proclaimed their newfound “friends for life” on social media, you can’t help but feel
you’re lagging in the race of uni camaraderie. This feeling is only intensified by the common
fresher’s ritual of shallow interactions, repetitive questions about degrees and
accommodation, and exchanging Instagram usernames instead of forming genuine
connections. It’s during these moments that you realise just why Maslow placed “a sense of
connection” in our hierarchy of needs.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic produced a concerning surge in teenagers consumed
by the digital world. Online friends and the warzone that is TikTok have given rise to a
curious phenomenon – students who are best depicted in the phrase, “I have five flatmates,
but I’m yet to see two leave their rooms.” Whether it’s fearmongering of the intimidating
peer-pressured “uni lifestyle” or simply introverted personalities, it remains a concerning
reality, raising questions about what we might be sacrificing for our online presence.
But fear not, salvation lies in the transition back to in-person teaching and the vibrant array of
societies – windows into shared interests and community. Whether you’re a Harry Potter
fanatic or merely have an unusual passion for soup (yes, there’s a society for that), there’s a
lifeline for those with niche interests that were easily dismissed and mocked in a rural
hometown.
Although, despite their advantages, I feel there remains a subtle danger in societies
pigeonholing individuals into narrow, predefined identities – as I’m not sure joining the
“Northern Society” and being branded a Greggs enthusiast represents the full scope of who I
am within a diverse cohort. University should be about expanding horizons and embracing
diverse experiences. Joining societies ought to be an opportunity to step out of your comfort
zone and explore something entirely different, even if it means failing miserably at a sport in
front of everyone. Unlike the boundaries of social media, societies offer a chance to break
free from identity constraints – so let’s not allow societies to devolve into mere echo
chambers.
Are freshers craving community? Absolutely! In a new city, surrounded by unfamiliar faces,
a longing for inside jokes and familiarity creeps in, alongside the temptation to cling to the
hometown group chat. During this transitional phase, societies and a good old Meadows
picnic can and should serve as positive pillars – places where students can thrive offline,
forging genuine and meaningful connections.
“Tiktok” by TheBetterDay is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.