How to Prepare for Freshers Week: The Ultimate Student Survival Guide

With results day out of the way, freshers week is coming in hot. Whether you secured your place a while ago, or through clearing, it’s important to figure out how to prepare for one wild week of university life. So, here it is! Your ultimate guide on how to make the most of freshers week, no matter what kind of student you are.

Let’s dive in and create a uni debut you’ll never forget.

1. What is Freshers Week?

The best way to picture freshers week is as the uni equivalent of a welcome party. It’s a mini festival that takes place every year in cities around the UK that celebrates the latest batch of students arriving at university.

Dozens of events take place over the course of the week, each focussing on different aspects of what to expect at your uni. Think nights out, city exploration, coffee tours, and so much more! There’s an event for everyone at some point in the week.

The purpose of freshers is to help you settle into your new life as a student, as it can be quite the change from A Levels or college. With this mind, use it as an opportunity to try new things and discover what you want your life at uni to look like.

2. The Freshers Week Checklist (aka What You’ll Wish You’d Packed)

It helps to be practical, especially when the week itself is so busy. These tips are for the real MVP’s that want to make life a bit easier.

Essentials to Bring

• ID: It seems obvious, but you’ll need on your person at all times when heading on a night out.
• Tickets or Wristband: Some freshers events require a ticket or a wristband for entry, check you SU website for details.
• Power Bank: You’ll be the hero of the hour when one of your new flatmates phone runs out of battery.
• Toiletries: A stick of deodorant, sanitary products, or even some mints can be helpful during a long day or night out.
• Water Bottle: Remember to stay hydrated during the fun.

3. How to Make Friends Without the Awkwardness

Stepping out of your room and into the shared kitchen for the first time can be daunting, especially if you’re one of the last to arrive. Trust us when we say that everyone is as nervous as each other, and making friends is about finding people you connect with, not the first ones you meet.

Breaking the ice is easy at university though, as everyone has different stories to tell about where they’re from and what they’re studying. Remember, you probably haven’t met your course mates yet, and they could be your new best friends too!

Discover our wide range of student accommodation options, catering to students who want a sociable or more private living arrangement.

4. Navigating Freshers as an International, Mature, or Commuter Student

Not everyone has come from the UK, or has the same background. This is something that makes uni great, and it’s important for you to meet like minded people during freshers to help you settle in like everyone else.

International Students

• Join your university’s international welcome programme. This opens up a new community for you to be a part of.
• Ask about support with English language lessons if you’re struggling.

Mature Students

• Look out for mature student focussed socials on the freshers calendar.
• Remember that with experience come different perspectives, don’t downplay how important that can be.

Commuter Students

• Find the common rooms and study hubs with plug sockets.
• Stay for some evening socials when you can. This will help you settle in with those living in the city.

5. Nightlife is Great, But Don’t Forget the Daytime Vibes Too

Not everyone thinks six nights of clubbing in a row is a good idea, and your bank account will thank you for not doing it too. There’s plenty more events to explore in the day, such as:

• Comedy shows
• Kilo sales and vintage markets
• Fresher fairs and volunteering opportunities
• Board game café trips

Keep an eye on your SU social media pages for news of new and exclusive events happening each day.

6. Don’t Forget to Look Out for You

Freshers week can be overwhelming, so make sure to look after your own physical and mental wellbeing throughout. There’s no shame in taking a breather from all the action.

Prioritising your health should be a value you hold dearly over the course of your time at university. Saying no to things you don’t want to do, and enjoying the stuff that makes you happy are vital to a positive student experience.

If you’re in need of support, don’t hesitate to reach out to your student support services or visit your GP.

7. Explore More Tips for Student Life

Discover more helpful tips on how to make university a great time in your life by reading more of our blog posts. Whether you’ve landed in Leeds, London, Manchester, or beyond, there’s handy advice for everyone!

Embrace the Fun

Freshers week isn’t about burning yourself out before you’ve even started. It’s designed to help you find your thing, and your people.

Some of those you meet this week could become lifelong friends.

See you on campus!