Surviving Freshers' Week
Friday 19 September 2008
Fresher’s Week should be one of the most memorable times of your life. But how do you make the most of it?
First things first
Make sure you pack everything you need for your time on campus. Some of you might live close by but for some, you could be moving into a totally different area or part of the country.
Hello!
Don’t be shy – introduce yourself. Everyone is in the same position as you and will probably be just as scared too.
If you're in halls your flatmates will probably be the people who you spend the rest of your uni life with, so make sure you hit it off right. Ask if they need help unpacking, ask where they’re from, what course they’re doing – anything!
Don’t hide away in halls or at home either. There's loads of places to chill on campus like the canteen, the student union and of course campus pubs and bars.
Here’s a video of some of the things Brunel freshers' got up to last year.
Freshers' Fayre
Here you will get to know about the groups and societies that your uni has to offer. There's usually limited space, so get there early before you miss out on any fun opportunities.
There’s bound to be a society that suits you. From creative writing to extreme sports – it'll be available. If you miss home or the culture you live by, there will probably be a cultural or religious society for you to join – and if there’s not, you can start your own!
Representatives from local and national businesses will most likely make an appearance too. They usually offer student discounts and cool freebies.
Nights out
If your uni doesn’t have a night club on campus, then it’ll probably have a few close by. There’ll be club reps promoting their night all over uni so talk to your friends and decide which one you want to go to.
If you do have a club on campus then this is probably the best choice. They'll be packed with new students just as eager to meet new people as you. Most uni clubs hold themed nights which can be a lot of fun.
Wherever you decide to go, remember to drink safely and don't over do it – you want to remember your first week right?
Uni tours
Some uni’s are big enough to be small towns, so tours around campus will probably be really helpful.
You also need to register to become an official student and this usually occurs on the tour. You’ll be given an ID card and an NUS Card, which gives you discounts on loads of high street stores.
You’ll also get your timetable, giving you enough time to sort out any clashes or mistakes.
If anything, at least the tour will prevent you from getting lost on your first day of lectures!
Money, money, money
That student loan probably looks really tempting right? Wrong! Many people over-spend during Fresher’s Week and don’t realise it until it's too late. Here are some helpful tips:-
- If you’re a clubber who plans to go out every night, then set yourself a limit.
- Yes, you have enough clothes, don’t spend anymore just for Freshers' Week.
- If you're living on campus try and stock up on as much food from home – with your parents permission of course.
- Though the canteen and student union are great places to hang out, avoid eating every single meal there, it’ll add up!
- Set aside money for course books, stationery etc. This is the important stuff that you should spend money on.
Find out more about student finance.
Try not to worry about lectures the following week. Enjoy yourself first and prepare for the rest of your life!
