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Uni can feel like a social minefield, especially if you’re introverted. Everyone seems to know each other already, and the idea of joining a club or attending an event can be daunting. But building a social network doesn’t have to be scary, it’s about taking small steps, finding the right spaces, and connecting in ways that suit you.
Feeling shy or nervous about meeting people? Here’s a simple guide to building a social network at Curtin, even if you’d rather stay in your own bubble.
1. Start small; classmates count
You don’t need to dive straight into huge parties or campus events. Start by talking to people in your tutorial or lecture. Ask about an assignment, exchange notes or comment on something you both observed in class. These little interactions are low-pressure ways to meet people, and over time, they can grow into meaningful friendships without feeling forced.
2. Explore clubs and societies
Curtin has over 150 clubs ranging from gaming to music, sports, cultural groups and more. Joining a club helps you meet people with shared interests, which makes starting conversations much easier. Don’t worry about attending every event or meeting at first, just showing up occasionally helps you get familiar with faces. Clubs sometimes also offer smaller group activities that are ideal for introverts who prefer quieter social settings.
3. Use social media and online communities
Following Curtin clubs, societies, and campus groups on Instagram, Facebook or Discord is a great low-pressure way to connect with others. Commenting on posts, joining online chats or reacting to stories lets you engage without the stress of in-person socialising. You can start building relationships virtually and then transition to meeting people face-to-face when you feel more comfortable.
4. Join study groups (without pressure)
Study groups give you a reason to interact without forcing small talk. Choose a group for a subject you enjoy and focus on contributing your thoughts in a structured way. You could also join the study support groups and study workshops, that the library run, or a UniPASS session for one of your units. These settings allow you to bond over shared academic goals and create connections that feel natural rather than social obligations. Plus, working together on assignments can lead to friendships outside of study.
5. Attend casual campus events
Events like the Barefoot Lunches, free workshops and those featuring on the Campus Life page on Oasis, are perfect for introverts because you can dip in and out as you like. These events offer a chance to observe and gradually get involved without feeling overwhelmed. Even attending once or twice gives you exposure to campus life and helps you recognise familiar faces, which could make future social interactions easier.
6. Make one-on-one connections
Sometimes smaller settings work better than big crowds. Invite a classmate for coffee, lunch or a walk around campus. One-on-one connections allow for more genuine conversations and can feel far less intimidating than larger social gatherings. Over time, these small interactions can lead to a solid network of friends who share your interests and values.
Being introverted doesn’t mean being alone. By starting small, finding the right communities, attending low-pressure events and engaging in ways that suit your personality, you can build a social network at Curtin that feels comfortable, meaningful, and fun. Remember, quality connections always matter more than quantity!
