Student 101 | Surviving Freshers’ Week

Freshers’ week has become known as a student rite of passage for those entering University. It’s a week that gives you the opportunity to throw yourself into university life, make new friends and experience new things. We’ve put together a short list of ways to make the most of, and survive that hectic first week!

Use this week to do the important stuff

Before your lectures start use this week to;

Make sure you are registered – Your universities website should contain a step-by-step guide on how to register, whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student. You’ll need to complete registration by a certain date – failure to do so may result in a fine!
Register with your local GP – Hopefully you won’t need the GP for anything more serious than ‘freshers’ flu’ (sickness and tiredness many students experience from lack of sleep and a change of diet – but it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Find out where everything is – Take the time to find out where the library and student union is, check bus timetables (if you need them), where your lectures will be held, local shops or supermarkets, make sure you have internet connection and everything else you need to get started!

2. Freshers Fair

Sign up for things – Check out your universities website and student union for information on freshers fairs, there maybe the opportunity to sign up for new experiences, try new things, talk to members of clubs and societies and possible local employers if you might be looking for a job.
Take a bag – Everyone loves a freebie! At the Freshers’ Fair many societies and companies give away freebies such as t-shirts, pens, sweets, gadgets and food even just for enquiring!

3. Nightlife

COVID precautions – Whilst lockdown might now seem like a distant memory, Covid-19 is still about and clubs and bars have taken precautions. Although social distancing is no longer required, please be respectful and considerate of your fellow students who may still feel more comfortable with a little distance. If you do feel any symptoms before activities start you’re best to head straight to get a COVID-19 test and double check. Whilst some rules might still be in place, freshers week 2021 will resemble some form of normality. You may wish to find out more about your university’s COVID-19 guidelines by visiting their website and, if you have events lined up or tickets booked for freshers’ week, make sure you’re aware of any safety rules in place.
Don’t blow it! – Most new students find that they don’t need much money at all during Freshers’ Week as most events are usually free. But you might want to think about setting a spending limit before you start or else you might find you’ve blown a month’s budget in seven days!
Alcohol intake – It’s fair to say that much of student culture – and freshers week especially – revolves around boozing, however many universities now cater for students who don’t drink, and if you don’t mind going out with people that do drink you can still go out and have fun – they’ll probably be grateful later that someone can work out the bus times home!
Take it steady – Most folks thinking about Freshers’ week will think it’s all, pubs, clubs and drinking! It can see a little overwhelming but just remember you don’t have to do everything! Also make sure you’re offsetting a night of drinking with a day of healthy eating and plenty of exercise.

Whilst some rules might still be in place, freshers week 2021 will resemble some form of normality. You may wish to find out more about your university’s COVID-19 guidelines by visiting their website and, if you have events lined up or tickets booked for freshers’ week, make sure you’re aware of any safety rules in place.

And remember…

People may tell you that Freshers Week is supposed to be one of the best weeks of your life, but don’t feel bad if it isn’t. It’s only natural to feel nervous about going to university, it’s a whole new experience where you’ll meet tons of new people all in one go!

If Freshers’ week doesn’t work for you then don’t suffer in silence! All universities have dedicated and friendly welcome teams to help you if you are feeling a little lost, or signpost you to the right people if you need further support.

Remember, it’s only your first week at university and it won’t define the whole of your university experience. You’ll have lots of other chances to have fun, make friends and explore your new home!

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