Most universities put on tons of events during freshers’ week before teaching officially starts, with loads of nights out, nights in, societies, and sports events to get involved with.
UCAS
It’s an exciting time and a great way to meet new people. So, here are some top tips for getting involved during the week.
- Find your tribe: There will be so much happening during freshers' week. There are cool events on all the time, nights out, freshers’ fairs and more. Most of all, it’s a chance to meet people, get involved and find your crowd, whether that’s a specific sports team, society, or your flatmates, to name a few.
- Take time for yourself: With everything being new (new people, new room, new freedom!), freshers’ week can be a bit overwhelming. So, make sure you take some time out for yourself. Whether you go for a walk, pin up some pictures in your new room, or head into the city, you can chill by yourself for a while if you need.
- Talk to your student reps: Feeling worried about something? Struggling to find a certain building? Most unis have a bunch of student volunteers to help you if you’re not sure about anything. They’ve been through it all before, so will be happy to share their experiences and offer advice. No question is too big or too small, and chances are they probably wondered the same thing when they were freshers.
As someone who suffers with anxiety I felt overwhelmed at times. It’s important to take some time out from all the cool events and make sure you leave some space for yourself – Laura, classics student at University of Nottingham.
- Look after yourself: Firstly, make sure you eat and drink enough to get you through the week. Get some cupboard essentials in, like pasta and instant noodles that are quick to cook. If nothing else, there will be loads of free pizza at your freshers’ fair to keep you topped up. Freshers’ week is loads of fun but going to so many events is tiring – make sure you’re well rested and getting enough sleep. If you like going out in the evening, take naps during the day so you’re energised for the dance floor later.
- Try new things: Freshers’ week is packed full of amazing events – there’s literally something for everyone. You’ll get sent a calendar of events, or find one when you get to halls, and it’s a great opportunity to try new things. You can suggest events to people you meet in halls and meet other people with the same interests. Just because you’ve never done it before, doesn’t mean you won’t love it.
Most importantly, enjoy yourself. I defo spent way too much of freshers’ week worrying, and not enough time enjoying it. I’m sure you’re going to love it – Laura, student at University of Nottingham.