Community is what makes us feel like we belong. There are so many opportunities for you to find your people at Sussex – here are some ideas!

Societies

The Students’ Union has over 180 student-led societies that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in participating in sports, trying a new hobby, or celebrating your culture, you can find like-minded people in one of the many societies Sussex offers.

And if you can’t find the right thing for you – get two other people interested and you can either adopt an inactive society or start a new one!

Buddy scheme

The Buddy Scheme is a peer-to-peer support programme that matches current students with students who are new to Sussex or would like a helping hand, based on their preferences, such as interests, course and language.

Being a member of the Buddy Scheme has lots of benefits. It will help you to meet new people, make new friends and try something new with regular trips, activities and events.

Spirit of Sussex Award

The Spirit of Sussex Award is a scheme at Sussex that celebrates your co-curricular and voluntary achievements during your time at university. By taking part in different activities, such as part-time work or societies, you can log points which build up towards a Bronze, Silver or Gold Spirit of Sussex Award, which will be presented to you at graduation.

Through getting involved in activities and joining the various events that are organised throughout the year, participating in the Spirit of Sussex Award is a great way of making friends.

The Spirit of Sussex Award is open to all students at the University of Sussex. Check out the award platform.

Reslife social activities

If you’re living in University-managed accommodation, you will have a Residential Life Connector (also called a Res Life Connector) for your accommodation.

Res Life Connectors help to plan activities that aim to bring you and the people you live with together, introduce you to other University event organisers and support you with the transition to independent living.

Follow the Res Life team on Instagram for updates on events.

Hear from one of your fellow students

Sussex student and Digital Media Creator, Abby, has shared some of her top tips for making friends at university in a recent video on Instagram (@sussexuni)!