1 The Comfort of Familiar Faces

Starting university can feel like a huge leap into the unknown. Students are moving to a new place, meeting tons of new people, and facing academic challenges that might be tougher than anything they’ve tackled before. So, it makes sense that having a friend or two already at the university can make the whole experience less intimidating.

Studies have shown that students who know someone at their university are more likely to feel comfortable and confident about their choice. In fact, research by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) found that 48% of students said knowing someone at their university influenced their decision to enroll. The idea of having a built-in support system can make all the difference, easing the transition and helping students feel more at home from day one.

2 The Power of Recommendations

Let’s face it—friends are some of our most trusted advisors, especially when it comes to big decisions like choosing a university. If a friend or someone a student knows has had a great experience at a particular university, their recommendation can be incredibly persuasive. After all, they’re giving the inside scoop on what it’s really like to live and study there.

This word-of-mouth influence is powerful. Many students rely on what their peers say about universities just as much as they rely on official rankings or brochures. A friend’s positive experience can make them more likely to imagine themselves thriving in the same environment, which can tip the scales when it comes to making their final decision.

3 The Allure of Campus Culture

If you’ve been a student, you know that it’s not always about academics, it’s also about the experiences students will have and the people they’ll meet. For many students, the idea of being part of a vibrant, active community is just as important as the courses they’ll take. Universities known for their lively campus life, student organizations, and strong sense of community often attract students who are looking for more than just a degree.

But here’s the thing: being part of a community doesn’t start when you arrive—it starts earlier! Feeling like they’ll fit in and have the chance to make new friends is a big deal. The National Union of Students (NUS) found that students are more likely to choose universities where they feel they’ll belong. If they know that a university has a great social scene or that it’s easy to connect with others, that can be a major factor in their decision to enroll.

4 Reducing the Fear of the Unknown

Moving away from university is a big step, and it’s normal for students to feel a bit nervous about it. But knowing they’ll have friends or acquaintances there can make the whole process feel a lot less scary. Universities that help prospective students make connections before they arrive make it easier to imagine yourself there, surrounded by new friends and familiar faces.

Early connections can make students feel like they’re already part of the community, which can reduce the anxiety that comes with starting something new. When students feel like they have a place at a university, they’re much more likely to make the leap and enroll.

Universities are adopting innovative ways to build community and make students feel welcome even before they arrive. Platforms like Goin', are designed to help students connect with each other, find common interests, and form friendships before stepping foot on campus. These platforms not only help students meet new people but also provide practical tools to prepare for university life, easing the transition and making them feel more confident in their choice.

5 Friendships That Last a Lifetime (and Boost Their Career)

Let’s not forget that the friendships students make at university aren’t just for their time there—they can also shape their future. The people they meet could end up being their colleagues, business partners, or lifelong friends. Networking during university can open up job opportunities, lead to collaborations, and help them in ways they might not even imagine yet.

In fact, a study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that 76% of students secure jobs through connections made at university, either through peers, professors, or alumni networks. Knowing that they’ll be part of a strong, connected community can be a big plus when deciding where to go. It’s not just about getting a degree; it’s about building a network that will support them long after graduation.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to choosing a university, don’t underestimate the power of friendships and connections. Whether it’s knowing someone on campus, hearing good things from a friend, or just feeling like they’ll fit in, these social factors can play a huge role in helping students make their decision. After all, university is about more than just studying—it’s about finding a place where they can grow, learn, and make connections that will last a lifetime.

If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of having a friend and how platforms like Goin' can help students build connections even before they start their university journey, or if you have any questions about finding the right recruitment tool that fits your prospects needs, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to help you discover innovative ways to support your students and ensure their university experience meets their expectations. Just fill out the form below, and we’ll get back to you with more information.