Online dating is scary. Some people don’t connect to people across messages, and sometimes it’s hard to tell if you even like the person. Let alone wondering if they actually look like their profile picture! Well if meeting someone on a dating app isn’t for you, there are lots of ways to meet people outside of the internet without using an app. Want to know how to meet someone organically at uni without using a dating app? Keep reading…
University societies
University societies are some of the best ways to meet people at uni. With loads of different societies for niche interests or general activities, you can meet like-minded people without having to go outside of your campus. Joining a society and talking to people you don’t know can be overwhelming. You may worry that no one will talk to you or that you’re overstepping, but the truth is that those people are thinking the same things. Just say hello, most people will want to have a chat with you! By joining a society with a specific interest, it’s much easier to strike up a conversation than making small talk from scratch over a dating app.
Some of the best societies to join to meet people:
- Film or book clubs
- Craft clubs
- Nightlife societies
- LGBTQ+ societies
- Hiking or climbing societies
University sport teams
Sports teams are a really good way to bond with people, and meet people with similar interests and mindsets. Not only this, but you can do an activity you enjoy whilst meeting people. Universities often have lots of different teams to join, and some of them, you may have never heard of before. If playing sports isn’t your thing, then go to some of the sports matches. They have lots of different ones and it’s a great way to meet people IRL without the use of a dating app!
Through friends
A big way to meet other people without using a dating app is through your friends. If your friends are hosting a party, go and try to talk to people that you don’t know. If you’re unsure how to get the conversation started, suggest playing a drinking game (here is a list of the best drinking games to play). You could even ask your friends to set you up with someone they think you’ll like. Having a similar friend group is a good way to meet someone, and get to know them before asking them on a date. You’ll be able to spend time with them and your friends in a natural way, unlike dating apps that can feel a little forced.
Fitness classes
Fitness classes are a brilliant way to meet people whilst at uni without a dating app. Just bring yourself and your yoga mat (or whatever equipment you need). There are so many types of classes for all different kinds of fitness. You don’t even have to be fit or exercise a lot in order to join a class, as there are plenty of beginner classes for you to try.
Some of the best classes to join:
- Spin class
- Yoga
- Zumba
- Cardio
- Running
- Swimming
You could also look for uni clubs related to fitness, like local running clubs for example.
Craft workshops
Craft workshops are the most fun way to meet people. Whether that’s to date or just new friends! Making something and meeting new people – sign me up! Often universities run these craft classes or workshops, often with a theme such as green week or valentines day, so there is no reason not to be able to go to one.
Some of the best workshops to try:
- Pottery
- Card Making
- Pot painting
- Crochet or knitting
- Needle felting
On a night out
Probably the most popular ways for students to date without using an app is through nights out. Whether it’s a party, bars, gig or club, there’s always going to be other people there. It can sometimes be hard to really get to know someone in a club, so consider hanging out a bar that plays your kind of music. You’ll likely meet someone who shares the same music taste and overall vibes that way.
General tips for meeting people without using a dating app
1. Most people are also searching for people but may feel awkward talking to people. Often a friendly approach will work to make people open up and be more comfortable. But it’s always worth remembering people have their own comfort levels so don’t expect everyone to want to talk to you but that’s okay as there are many people who do.
2. A big tip would be not to go just to meet people but also to have fun, and you’ll find that people will also approach you.
3. A common mistake people make is to introduce themselves and then do all the talking after. This is most likely because there is social pressure to keep the conversation flowing but if you relax it will flow naturally and then you get more out of the conversation.
Now you know how to meet people, it’s time to prep for your first date. Here is our list of the best (and worst) questions to ask on your first date.
