Celebrate together this International Friendship Day

Thank you to everyone who shared their friendship-forming stories when entering our competition - it warms our hearts to know so many of you formed new life-long connections while living with us (that's what it's all about!).

We've picked a few out to share with you on International Friendship Day:

Rhys (our competition winner!)

"I was English, he was French, it was all out war for the first month, doing our respective nations proud, criticising each others food, learning insults in each others language to be more effective. Over time it grew into tolerance for one another, and eventually friendship. I’d say we got over our differences, but we didn’t, I just pretend he’s not French and he pretends I’m not English, we’re now nicknamed “roast beef” and “Grenouille” respectively. Now, if we’re lucky, next year will be the most amicable French-English settlement we’ve seen in our nation’s history."

Divjot

"My flatmate Xiang was the first Chinese person I ever spoke to in my life. She is fun, outgoing and travels a lot. We both go to the same law school and hence became friends by discussing law papers. We made plans and had fun this one year. I am going to miss her a lot because she is moving back home. But Alliance gave me a comfort zone to meet new people. I am going to stay in touch with her and visit her in her home town."

Còra

"My two flatmates Joe and Sandie have been my forever best friends since I’ve moved in from over the water ( Derry ), as they have both been there for me about any of my issues - even if they weren’t course related :) I love being flatmates with them, will miss them this year but will forever stay in contact with them :)"

Even though some of you may not be living with us or living together next year, that doesn't mean it has to be the end of your friendships! Keep in contact and make plans that work for each other's schedules, and you'll be Best Friends 4 Life.

Original article below...

What makes a friend a "best friend"? The memories you share, the hurdles you've overcome or the stuff you do together? There's no right or wrong answer, but we want to know how one flatmate became one of your besties during your time living with us.

By sharing your story, you will have the chance of winning either a £25 e-voucher for the winning story, or a £5 e-voucher if your story features on our Insta post on the 30th July!!

Enter by Friday 25th July, you must be or have been living at Sanctuary student accommodation. Please provide both your university email so we can check if you're eligible.

Good luck!