A new study conducted by Snapchat ahead of Freshers’ Week 2025 shows the traditional first year experience of all-nighters and night clubs is starting to lose its shine – as nearly two thirds (64%) of new university students would choose a group activity or hobby over a night out as a way to meet new people.
Heading off to university marks an incredibly important life chapter for many young people across the UK, and the survey of 1,000 university students showed that first years are feeling a mixed bag of excitement (57%) and nerves (60%) when it comes to this transitional moment, as they pack up their lives ready to take on their first real opportunity of independence.
Yet whilst anticipation mounts, one thing is clear – the importance for students in finding a like-minded tribe is stronger than ever.
When first years were asked what they are most looking forward to about starting university, just under half (49%) said making friends, and 46% said finding new communities and meeting new people; both ranking above exploring the local nightlife (27%).
This focus on genuine connection is leading to a step-change in how freshers are choosing to socialise. The top five reasons why the majority of first years would rather socialise in group settings away from the classic night out were voted as:
- More likely to meet similar people with shared interests (51%)
- Less pressured involved to drink or stay out late (47%)
- Connections made at group activities are stronger (38%)
- The conversations at group activities are less surface level and more genuine (36%)
- Group activities are less intense as a social setting (30%)
Solid friendships offer a lifeline for connection throughout the university experience, and the majority of students (76%) say finding a like-minded group of friends is their top priority for university. Friends are not only sought out as people to have fun with and make lasting memories (55%), but importantly, to have someone to talk to when feeling low or stressed (41%).
When it comes to keeping friendships going, over half (52%) of current students say group chats and DMs are essential for staying in touch with friends at university. And if ever the experience starts to feel like too much to take in, it is clear messaging home friends in group chats provides a support anchor. A third (33%) say this helps them the most when feeling homesick, coming second only to speaking with family and friends via phone or video calls (53%).
With 58% of students saying they would be most interested in sports clubs and fitness activities like run clubs as a way to socialise and chat with friends, Snapchat is proud to be launching Snap Run Stars – a first of its kind Freshers Club in partnership with running connoisseur and influencer Savannah Sachdev to support students in creating real-life friendships and community.
Designed to bring students together through a shared love of running and making real mates, the inaugural run clubs will take place in two of the UK’s biggest university cities, London and Manchester, across the 8th and 9th of October.
Snap Run Stars Host, Savannah Sachdev comments: “Starting university is such an exciting time, but finding your people can feel overwhelming. For me, keeping up my passion for movement during uni helped me so much, because I realised how social sports could be. I didn’t get involved to be “good” , I just showed up to have fun! Having a chat with mates or meeting new people through sport, whether that is running or another form of movement, became a massive part of my uni life, and still is today. This is exactly what we’re aiming to foster with Snap Run Stars, supporting freshers in making friends in a chilled, low-pressure setting. It’s about connection, good vibes, and finding people who are into the same stuff as you. Who knows, you might just meet your bestie.”
Jake Thomas, Head of UK, Snapchat said: “For many young people uni is a defining life chapter and a time when lasting friendships are made. This study shows the importance of meaningful friendship and connection for Gen Z – something we see on Snapchat every day, from sharing silly, fun moments from their day with friends, to staying connected with family when they’re apart. With Snap Run Stars, we want to celebrate the importance of friendship both on and offline, and can’t wait to bring our community together in London and Manchester to mark this next chapter for new students across the UK.”
Snap Run Stars run clubs take place in London’s Battersea Park on Wednesday 8th October, and in Mayfield Park, Manchester on Thursday 9th October. Tickets are free and available via Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/snapchat-115947634501
