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Freshers Week: Building Friendships in the ESEA Community at University

Alright, so you’ve landed at uni, and Freshers Week is kicking off—it’s buzzing, but also a bit nerve-wracking, right? Everyone’s out here trying to meet new people and settle in. But for us in the ESEA community, it can sometimes feel like we’re on a different wave. With the mix of cultures and everything, finding your people might feel like a mission. No need to stress though; there’s bare ways to connect with like-minded East and Southeast Asians and feel right at home.

Get in on the ESEA Contemporary Scene

One of the best ways to kick things off is by hitting up events that are all about the ESEA community. Loads of societies and orgs are now creating spaces for us to vibe, bond, and just hang out. If you’re after cultural or varied events, there are various ESEA organisations, such as the London Chinese Community Centre, and B.SEAn. They are typically volunteer-led organisations who organise events to bring the community together. If you’re after nightlife, Official K Events is Europe’s largest Kpop Club Nights organiser.

If you have a love of Kpop and after a fun night, this could be a good option. If you’re in London, Thai Square in Trafalgar Square is also the Asian night to-go. Every Friday and Saturday night, the club is packed with trendy Asians dancing the night away. Whether you're Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, or repping another ESEA background, you're bound to meet people who get where you're coming from. The Asian networking scene is more alive than ever.

Your Uni’s ESEA Societies Are a Goldmine

Nearly every uni in the UK will have some kind of ESEA-related society—whether it’s an Asian society, an international asian student group, or something similar. These groups are the perfect places to build those solid friendships. Keep an eye out for ABACUS (Association of British Chinese University Students). Almost all universities in the UK have one, and despite the name, it’s typically open to all Asians.

Most universities will also have specific ethnic societies, such as Filipino Society or Vietnamese Society. Sign up at Freshers’ Fayre or follow their Instagram pages. Asian networking events, cultural festivals, and socials—they're ideal for bonding over shared food, languages, and vibes. Don't hesitate to dive into Freshers Week! We're all in this together, and bonding over shared experiences is the best way to make friends.

Feeling a Bit Lost? It’s Calm, We’ve All Been There

If you’re feeling a bit out of place, no stress. Freshers Week is chaos for everyone, whether they’re locals or internationals. For the ESEA community, it might take a bit more effort to find people who get your background, but trust us—it’s 100% worth it.

Hit Up Your Uni’s Asian Societies ASAP

If you haven’t already scoped them out, what are you waiting for? Most unis have Asian or international societies where you can link up with people from the ESEA community. These groups are all about making you feel at home, whether through socials, cultural nights, or just chill hangouts. Honestly, it’s probably the easiest way to meet new people in the UK who just get it.

Find external ESEA-related events to suit your taste

If you’re based in or near London, you’re set. The London Chinese Community Centre and B.SEAn are volunteer-led community organisations. You’ll meet students, professionals, and creatives all looking to connect. The UK is also vibrant with Asian nights, from K Events, to Thai Square. Don’t worry—other cities like Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds have their own ESEA communities with similar events, so keep your eyes peeled.

Don’t Sleep on Social Media

Let's be honest: everything is blowing up on social media. Follow your university's societies, the ESEA community sites, and local Asian activities. It's a low-key method to stay informed without feeling pressurised. Furthermore, it allows you to discover which events interest you and who you may like to connect with ease.

Food is the Ultimate Connector

Listen, food brings people together like nothing else. Whether it’s a hotpot night, dim sum run, or a homemade potluck, food events are the perfect vibe for getting to know people in the ESEA community. If your uni’s Asian society is throwing a food-based event during Freshers Week, you do not want to miss it.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Yeah, we know it's super awkward to walk into a room full of strangers. But guess what? Everyone's feeling the same way during Freshers Week! Relax, take a deep breath, and go ahead and introduce yourself! Most people are looking for mates just like you, so whether it’s joining a convo or asking about the next big event, it’s all good.

Find Your People with Maccha

Feeling a bit stuck on how to find your crew? Check out Maccha—the community app built specifically for the ESEA community living in the West. Maccha makes it easy to connect with like-minded people in a super chill, community-focused way. You’ll find events, activities, and casual meetups nearby, so you can link up with others who are on your wavelength. It’s like having your own personal guide to the ESEA scene!

Final Thoughts

Freshers Week is your perfect chance to build lifelong uni friendships, especially within the ESEA community. From joining societies to using the Maccha community app to find your tribe, the possibilities are endless. So get out there, embrace your heritage, and link up with new people who get you. Trust us, there are loads of like-minded ESEA people just waiting to meet you.

Let’s make those connections happen!