Curiosity beats Confidence

Making friends at university can feel awkward. Networking can feel even worse. Walking into a room full of strangers. Joining a society on your own. Starting conversations. Introducing yourself. Sending the first message. For many students, these moments can feel far more intimidating than any assignment or exam. In Episode 2 of our New Semester, New Foundation series, we're tackling one of the biggest challenges students face at the start of university: How do you build meaningful relationships when you're not naturally confident? Joining us are Mercy Abel, founder of Who You Know, community builder and early careers specialist, and Garance Locatelli, co-founder of MARKED and part of the Strathclyde Inspire Accelerator. Together, they share honest stories about social anxiety, adapting to new environments, building networks from scratch and learning how to connect with people authentically. In this episode, you'll learn: Why confidence isn't a prerequisite for connection How to start conversations without feeling awkward or forced The simple questions that help build genuine relationships What networking actually means (and why most people get it wrong) How resilience helps you overcome social anxiety and self-doubt Small acts of courage that can completely change your university experience The biggest takeaway? Relationships are built through curiosity, not confidence. Whether you're new to university, new to Glasgow, or simply nervous about putting yourself out there, this episode will give you practical strategies to help you build friendships, confidence and connections one conversation at a time. About the Series New Semester, New Foundation is a special five-part Inspiring Entrepreneurs mini-series designed to help students make the most of the year ahead. Across the series we'll explore: You Don't Need a Perfect Plan Making Friends & Networking (Without It Feeling Awkward) Finding Your People: Building the Right Uni Environment How to Stand Out Without Burning Out Stop Waiting, Start Creating Opportunities Each episode explores entrepreneurial mindset skills that help students build confidence, create opportunities and shape a future they're excited about. Next episode: Finding Your People: Building the Right Uni Environment Because making friends is one thing. Finding the people who help you grow is something else entirely. Strathclyde Inspire supports and encourages entrepreneurship in all its forms, so whether you want to explore your entrepreneurial potential, have an idea for a business, or are considering commercialising your research, we will support you at every stage of your journey. Strathclyde Inspire supports any University of Strathclyde student, staff or graduate. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strathclydeinspire LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/strathclyde-inspire Website: https://www.strath.ac.uk/workwithus/strathclydeinspire/strathclydeinspirehub/