freshers' week
(noun)
“An ENTIRE week to socialize and settle into a brand new place and phase of life." - 👩🏻⚕️
After spending the last days of your summer as a high school graduate, shopping and packing all the bits and bobs you think you'll need for uni, you're finally here! And freshers' week is right around the corner. The very words 'Freshers' Week' exude a plethora of emotions and feelings, don’t they? Some can't wait to get started and others may feel a bit anxious but fret not for we've got our best tips on offer!
1. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to spend Freshers' Week.
Yup, you read that right. There is no "right" or "wrong" when it comes to Freshers' week and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
We know that being thrown into a new environment filled with hundreds of new faces can be overwhelming. Everyone you meet would be doing completely different things and it's alright not to do the same things as them. Also don't ever feel compelled to do EVERYTHING on offer. It's a common mistake freshers make due to the fear of "missing out". But no FOMO here, only good vibes!
2. Plan your time.
You can avoid feeling like you've missed something by planning ahead. A well planned Freshers' week is a well enjoyed Freshers' week. Try and find out what events are happening and where via the university social media pages (or just email your student union for more info). Making a schedule with all the events you're interested in will make you feel more organized and stress-free. You can obviously change out events later on, if needed!
3. Finding friends.
Freshers' week is all about "settling down" and the easiest way to do that is to be around those with whom you share common interests. Understandably, a lot of students feel anxious about finding and making new friends. In my opinion, it can be quite an enjoyable experience if you just don't overthink.
Try and attend society events, sports tasters and course inductions (whilst socially distancing of course). Talk to course-mates and flat-mates and get to know them. But don't expect everyone you meet to become your BFF. Friend circles take time to form so don’t be afraid to give it that time.
4. Have some ME time.
Sometimes, freshers' week can really get the party animal out of you and that's alright but do make sure to set aside some down time to relax and recover from the buzz. You DON'T have to attend every party on campus to have the "full-experience". Doing that would take a terrible toll on your health and might actually make you more stressed when classes actually begin.
It is likely that this is your first time staying away from home so schedule some time in for your health and hygiene. You could even do some prep work for uni by arranging your room/kitchen and doing some reading. If you're not quite feeling up to that, why not explore your campus instead? (You won't be late for class on your first day that way.)
5. Ask for help.
Lastly, if at any point you feel like you need help with getting organised or stress-management, don't be afraid to contact your university services or the student union. They are there to help you and are always more than happy to make sure you're comfortable. Keep essential contacts close at hand in case you need them and never hesitate to take a step back.
In the light of the current pandemic, your Freshers' Week experience may be unusual. But we wish you the very best for your university life and hope you enjoy it! Don’t forget: wash hands, wear a face covering, and make space. 😉
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