Freshers\u2019 Week is coming up, and you might be feeling a mix of anxiety, excitement and a million other emotions in-between. Moreover, with COVID, the idea of online lectures, and new regulations, first-year uni students might be extra stressed out about starting term. If you want some advice from the experts, here are our top tips for freshers to make their uni experience something unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Freshers\u2019 Week is a time when everyone is experiencing a series of \u201cfirsts.\u201d It might be your first day at uni, while it\u2019s another student\u2019s first week away from home. It\u2019s common to feel like you don\u2019t want to make the first move talking to a new person. Just remember, everyone\u2019s in the same boat! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take a chance and strike up a conversation. Keep an open mind. Making new friends might seem daunting, but it\u2019s an essential part of the uni experience! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rule number one? Don\u2019t eat your flatmate\u2019s food. Rule number two? Stop ordering takeaway! While one of these has consequences on your friendships and the other on health, it\u2019s important to focus on maintaining a balanced and budget-conscious diet. Try visiting your local market and picking out a mix of fresh and frozen food to keep your pantry stocked<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Getting involved in activities<\/a> beyond your exams is a great way to make your new uni campus feel like home. Whether it\u2019s a sports team, photography club or political society, use Freshers\u2019 Week to scout out the group that fits you best. Be careful not to join too many organisations. More than one or two might have you overwhelmed, and your email inbox will never recover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before moving into your student accommodation<\/a>, compare the amenities provided with what you own and what your flatmates already have. If you don\u2019t plan ahead, you might end up with six spoons and no dinner plates! When you pack your belongings, find a good mix of necessities and aesthetic decor. To make your flat feel more like home, add a few touches like posters, lamps, tapestries or house plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s nothing worse than a horrible flatmate! Make it your goal to set an example and be on your best behaviour. Yes, that does mean you need to tidy up\u2014but as long as you\u2019re consistently cleaning a little every day, your flat will stay sparkling. If you\u2019re in for a bit of bonding time, make a cuppa in the morning instead of heading to a cafe. Not only is this COVID-safe, but everyone loves a warm beverage and biscuit. Plus, it gives you time to get to know your roommates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you do have any issues with your roomie, you\u2019re not alone! Check out <\/em>our blog<\/em><\/a> for more tips on dealing with tricky flatmate situations.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n You can\u2019t do it all! We know it might feel like you can but trust us: you\u2019ll need a break. This is one of our top tips for freshers to avoid burnout and unneeded stress! Set up a space in your apartment or room that\u2019s specifically for R&R and use it when you\u2019re feeling overwhelmed! <\/p>\n\n\n\n Create a meditation nook, think a meditation cushion, scented diffuser, and fairy lights. Or designate a comfy spot where you can binge-watch Netflix or read (a non-course book<\/a>). This could be as simple as a corner of your bed with an upright pillow and a reading lamp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, consider having a day off each week with no coursework or obligations\u2014self-care Sunday<\/a> is perfect for that! You\u2019ll likely start to feel the stress of your new environment, and having a plan to relax and recharge is key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Join Student Clubs and Societies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
4. Balance Inventory and Aesthetics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5. Be the Best Flatmate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Take a Break<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. Create a Budget (and Stick to It!)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n