Starting your journey as a video games student is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities. One of the most fulfilling aspects of this journey is the friendships you’ll form along the way. While studying video games can be immersive and intense, it’s important to connect with fellow gamers and other creative individuals to enrich your experience. Here’s a friendly guide to making friends as a gaming student, no matter where you are.
Search for Local Events
Local gaming events are a fantastic way to meet like-minded gamers. From small meet-ups to large tournaments, these gatherings offer a relaxed environment where you can bond over shared interests. Websites like Meetup and Eventbrite often list gaming events in your area. Don’t be afraid to attend these events solo, many others are also looking to make new friends, and the shared passion for gaming makes for easy conversation starters.
Find Gaming Cafes Near You
Gaming cafes typically offer a variety of games, from PC and console setups to board games. They are designed to be social spaces where you can meet other gamers, engage in friendly competition, and even participate in cafe-hosted tournaments or events. A quick online search can help you find gaming cafes in your city. Regular visits can help you become a familiar face, making it easier to form connections with other regulars.
Check out these top gamers’ hotspots in Brighton.
Berlin calling? Here’s the top gamers’ spots in the German capital.
Attend a Convention
Gaming conventions are a goldmine for networking and making friends as they draw large crowds of enthusiastic gamers. These conventions often feature panels, workshops, and social events where you can meet people who share your passion for gaming. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with fellow attendees, after all, you’re all there because you love gaming!
Join Online Communities
In addition to local meet-ups and events, online communities are a valuable resource for making friends. Platforms like Discord host numerous gaming communities where you can join discussions, find people to play with, and participate in community events.
Reddit’s r/GamerPals is a fantastic subreddit for finding gaming friends. This hub is dedicated to connecting gamers from around the world. You can post about the games you enjoy, your location, and what you’re looking for in a gaming friend. Whether you’re seeking someone to play online with or looking for local buddies, r/GamerPals is a welcoming community that can help you forge new friendships.
Check out Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are another excellent online way to connect with fellow gamers. There are a number of groups dedicated to specific games, platforms, and even local gaming communities. Joining these groups allows you to engage in discussions, participate in group activities, and meet people who share your gaming interests. Many of these groups also organise offline meet-ups, providing a perfect opportunity to turn online connections into real-life friendships.
Study in Creative Cities
Studying gaming in creative cities like Brighton or Berlin not only immerses you in a vibrant gaming community but also connects you with students from other creative disciplines at BIMM University such as performing arts, film, and music. Our campuses are bustling with creative energy, offering so many opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Engaging with students from different fields can provide fresh perspectives and inspiration, enriching your own creative endeavours. Attend events, workshops, and social gatherings organised by the campus teams or local community to broaden your network beyond just gamers.
Collaborate on Projects
Collaborating on gaming projects is a natural way to build friendships. Whether it’s a class assignment, a game jam, or a personal project, working closely with others fosters strong bonds. You’ll spend time brainstorming, problem-solving, and creating together, which can lead to lasting friendships. Don’t limit yourself to collaborating only with fellow gaming students; consider partnering with students from other creative fields to bring diverse skills and perspectives to your projects.
Be Open and Approachable
Lastly, the key to making friends is being open and approachable. Smile, engage in conversations, and show genuine interest in getting to know others. Attend BIMM University events, participate in clubs, and make an effort to connect with your classmates. Remember, everyone is looking to make friends and share their passions, just like you. Happy gaming and happy friend-making!
