Freshers’ Week is almost upon us and a new generation of students will get their first taste of university life. It can be a daunting time and with so much happening it can be difficult to prioritise people, places and financial choices. We’ve put together a list of top tips to help new students make the most of Freshers’ Week and start their university life as they mean to go on.
By Elsa Tatam. Published 13 September 2024.
Create good habits
With no exams or dissertations immediately looming, the first few months of your course are undoubtedly the best time to enjoy the broader benefits of student life. It’s common for excited students to get caught up with everything going on in their first term, which increases the danger of burning out later in the year. Instead, take this time to ease yourself in as gently as possible. Be sure that you have a good understanding of the University and your place in it before the workload starts to pile up; it’ll feel less overwhelming.
Attend events and workshops put on during your Welcome Week, interact with your fellow students and try to engage with wider University staff to help you settle in.
Get extra-curricular
With Freshers’ Week comes the Freshers’ Fair, which offers up the chance to join a whole range of clubs and societies, such as football, debating and book clubs. Not only does this give you a break from your studies, but it is a great opportunity to meet likeminded people and it boosts your CV too.
Find activities that reflect your personality and interests, as well as opportunities that are going to stand out to employers. For instance, if you’re studying law, joining a pro bono society shows your commitment to a career as a lawyer, whilst also giving you insight into what legal practice is all about. Visit the Employability Service to learn more about standing out from the crowd when it comes to future employers.
Just remember - while it’s important to try and spend time on your hobbies, you don’t want to overload yourself and end up struggling with your course. You also don’t need to join the same clubs every year if you have a diverse range of interests.
Set yourself a budget
With so many great events happening during Freshers’ Week, it’s easy to overspend.. Download the free BlackBullion Money Manager app, take a look at your income and outgoings and set yourself a budget before you get too far into your first term. Even if you calculate that you can’t afford to do everything straight away, then you’ll know early on into your uni life that you may need to supplement your bank balance with part-time work.
For more help with budgeting, savings and income support, head to our Cost of Living hub or speak to our Money and Housing team.
Sign up for student discounts
High street and internet discounts from big brand such as ASOS, The Co-Op, National Express, Amazon Prime and many, many more are available to all students with a university email address.
Our students get a free one-year TOTUM+ card on enrolment – instructions to claim are in your University email account (check your junk folder too), and you can download a variety of free apps on your phone to enjoy discounts from your first day. These savings can really add up so keep an eye on the offers and shop smart.
Make time for yourself
You will meet lots of people during the first few days, so it’s important that you find time to rest and recharge. If possible, create a comfy space in your room where you can enjoy some quiet time and self-care.
Enjoy it
Freshers’ Week is all about throwing yourself in and making the most of the opportunities available. Be open to people as well as possibilities and you’ll be settled into your new university life in no time at all.
Check out what your fellow Freshers are doing at LiveProspectus.com
