Community and campus life

Starting somewhere new or taking the next step as a Masters student can feel exciting, and you may be thinking about your life outside of studies.  

Much of student life happens on campus – it’s a place to meet friends, discover new interests, take part in events and spend time between classes. With everything on one single site, being on campus is one of the easiest ways to feel part of the University community. Thanks to its great location, it’s just a short distance to the city centre or popular student areas Hyde Park and Headingley.

Ways to meet people

Everyone finds their place differently. Whether you want to meet people through shared interests, try something new, support others or explore the city, there are lots of ways to get involved and feel part of student life at Leeds. 

My advice to future students is to embrace your individuality. Choose activities that resonate with you, rather than feeling pressured to participate in everything.

Your Students’ Union 

Leeds University Union is a good place to start meeting people. You can join a club or society, go to events, get advice, volunteer, or take part in activities shaped by students with interests similar to yours. 

Find friendly spaces and activities on campus 

Lots of student-led activities and events are run throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to meet other students in relaxed settings. 

Our Buddy Scheme can match you with another student with similar interests, so you can explore Leeds, take part in activities and share your university experience. 

As well as organised events and activities, simply spending time on campus is one of the easiest ways to get to know other students. Whether you’re studying in a shared space, grabbing a coffee between classes, or taking a break in one of our beautiful green spaces to watch the campus bunnies, there are lots of places to enjoy spending time together on campus.

You can explore and get a feel for our campus before you arrive with our 360 virtual experience tour. 

Sport, fitness and active communities 

You don’t need to be a competitive athlete to get involved. There are plenty of opportunities for all levels, and while our Sport and fitness opportunities can help you stay active, they’re also a great way to meet people and build friendships.  

You can also: 

• Explore Active Campus for inclusive sport and exercise sessions on campus. 
• Join Get Out, Get Active to meet new people while exploring the Yorkshire countryside. 

Share your time and support others 

Volunteering on campus and in the wider Leeds community could be an opportunity to connect with other students and local communities, whilst making a positive impact or helping others. 

I’ve had the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, try something new and connect with people from across the University.

Explore Leeds and beyond 

Various days out and trips run throughout the year, giving you the chance to explore other cities, countryside, seaside towns and must-see attractions with fellow students. 

Exploring Leeds and getting to know the city you’ll call home may also help you to feel settled in and connect with people when you first arrive. 

Facilities and support for commuter students

If you’ll be living off campus and travelling in for your studies, you can still feel part of student life at Leeds. The ResLife Commuter Student Life Guide brings together practical advice and information which will help you learn more about the support and activities to help you connect with other students.

It’s made such a difference having a space designed with commuter students in mind. You can stay on campus, get work done, and spend time with others - it makes students feel more connected to university life.

Leeds University Union’s Commuters Society is also here to support you and runs accessible social activities for students who travel to campus.  

Connect with students from around the world

Leeds is home to students from around the world. You’ll have lots of opportunities to meet people, share experiences and build new friendships, including orientation, Link to Leeds, Global Cafe and student-led activities.  

We have also put together some international student guidance and information to help you prepare before you arrive at Leeds and settle in once you’re here. 

Feel part of the academic community

As a postgraduate student, you won’t just be developing the skills, confidence and experience to support your next steps, but also learning alongside people and working with academic staff who share your interests and ambitions. You may meet some of your closest friends through seminars, group work, projects, and academic discussions. 

Explore the Leeds academic experience. 

Hear from current students about their experience 

You can hear directly from students and ambassadors about studying, living in Leeds and finding their place here. 

Visit Link to Leeds to chat to fellow students. 

Read student blogs to find out what it’s like to study at Leeds and be part of the student community.