From campus to FaceTime: stay connected

After many years of creating memories together, it can be hard to realise that you won't see your uni mates every day. This doesn't mean you can't stay connected with each other and maintain a friendship.

Here are a few ways you can keep in contact:

Make new traditions 

If your hometowns are far apart, you can start some new digital traditions.

🍿 Movie nights: If you're used to watching new movies/series together in halls, then this is perfect for you both. You could stream the same show at the same time together and even have a dedicated night each week.

🎮 Gaming nights: You could start a Discord together and play your favourite games. Even if you haven't played video games together before, it could be a good laugh for you both and a great way to spend time together.

🥘 Virtual cooking/dinner: Have a cook-off together, make the same dish and see who's got the best outcome. Or you could send each other recipes to make! Even if you're making something super simple, spending that time together whilst you're eating without other distractions could be all you need.

Little check-ins 

You don't need to spend 2 hours on a phone call every other night to stay close to each other. Sometimes the small, daily check-ins mean more than the long conversations where you're trying to find topics to talk about.

• Share content: Send TikToks, Instagram reels or other memes to each other. Sharing a moment of laughter could make their day.
• Low-pressure voice notes: Send quick updates to each other whilst you're getting ready for the day or walking to get your morning coffee. 
• Share music: Create a Spotify playlist together of your favourite songs you vibed to in halls. You can also create blend playlists on Spotify, where it merges what you're both listening to.

Display your memories 🖼️

Some people might have a university memory box, which is a great idea, but you might want to display your photos when you move home. It can make the transition of not seeing them every day slightly better because you're still seeing their faces every day. You could even make a collage with some fairy lights. You might feel closer to them, and, if you have guests over, you can tell them the stories of each photo!

Remember that people will be spending time with their families, hometown friends or working, so try not to take it personally if someone doesn't reply for a day. Be patient, respectful and use these little ways to keep showing that you care.