Leaving for university is a huge step in life and one that comes with mixed feelings. The dread of moving to a new city, possibly living with strangers and having to fend for yourself is counteracted by the sense of independence, the thrill of a new adventure and the prospect of a lounge full of traffic cones.

One of the best things about university life is it gives a huge opportunity to meet new people. Although you may be leaving some childhood friends behind as they move to other cities, you'll probably find many like-minded students on your course. Like you, most of them will be feeling a bit nervous about leaving home to embark on a few years of study in unfamiliar surroundings.

One way to meet people with similar interests is to join a club. University websites and information centres will have lists of all the groups available both on and of campus, and there will normally be a wide range available - sports clubs, religious groups, drama associations and quirky ones like toast appreciation societies. The earlier you join these clubs, the more quickly you'll make new friends and settle in. Even if you're not sure if a group is for you, it's always best to go along and give it a try.

Getting a part-time job is another good way of meeting new people, but it can also be a distraction from your studies - which should always be the main focus of your time at university.

Once you've found a few people to spend time with, exploring the city can become a collective activity and something to allow you to bond even further. If you take an angle on your exploration you will find it more fun - whether you search for all the best shops, visit pubs around the city or just buy a day ticket for the bus and see where it takes you - you'll find that you forge great memories whilst getting to know your new hometown.

By the time your exams have passed and the summer holidays come round, you'll again be in the position of leaving your friends - although this time only temporarily. Being carefree - and rich enough - to visit all your new mates over the summer would be an ideal situation; however, many students need to work over their holidays to earn enough money to see them through until the next student loan payment.

One way to keep in touch when you're not at university is to download a free instant messaging programme. These allow you to have conversations using either text or voice, share files and create plans for the next term. Then when you meet up again for your next year of university, you'll already be up to speed on each other's activities and ready to make the most of each other's company. Plus instant messaging can also be used to keep tabs on those old friends you waved goodbye to, so regardless of where you - or they - ultimately end up, you'll only ever be separated by a keyboard.

Disclaimer: Matthew Pressman writes for a wide variety of commercial clients. This article is intended for information purposes only and readers should seek additional information before taking any actions based on its content.