Freshers’ Week is hyped up like it’s going to be the “best week of your life.” And honestly? It can be a lot of fun. But it can also be a bit overwhelming, and if you’re not careful, you’ll burn through your student loan before lectures even begin.
When I started, I thought I had to say yes to everything. Spoiler: I didn’t, and neither do you. So here are the things I wish someone had told me before I arrived.
Don’t spend your whole budget in the first week
The temptation is real. Every society will be inviting you to something, clubs are throwing Freshers’ specials, and Deliveroo suddenly feels like your new best friend. But remember: you’ve got the rest of the year to enjoy all of this.
- Give yourself a rough daily budget—it’s not glamorous, but it works.
- Go to free events (there are so many during Freshers, just check out your student union website or ask your seniors!).
- Cook a meal with your flatmates as it’s cheaper, breaks the ice, and you’ll be grateful not to live on chips and pizza.
You don’t have to drink if you don’t want to
This is probably the biggest myth about Freshers’ Week, that you need to drink to fit in. You really don’t.
- Most unis put on many non-drinking events: film nights, coffee socials, day trips.
- If you go on a night out, no one actually cares what’s in your glass.
- And honestly? Some of the best memories come from the random things outside of club nights, late-night chats in the kitchen, exploring your new city, random conversations in society events.
So if you don’t feel like drinking, skip it or grab a soft drink. You won’t be the only one.
Get out of your room (everyone’s in the same boat)
I get it, sometimes the idea of walking into a room full of strangers feels like the last thing you want to do. But Freshers’ Week is the one time when literally everyone is looking to make friends.
- Keep your door open while you unpack, it makes it easy for people to say hi and start a conversation.
- Join group chats (course, halls, societies) and actually post a message, you’ll be glad you did.
- Don’t stress about finding “your people” instantly. Real friendships take time.
Even a simple “Want to grab food?” can be the start of something.
Freshers’ Week isn’t just nights out
There’s so much going on besides the clubbing scene. Don’t miss the good stuff:
- Welcome fayres: they’re chaotic, but you’ll leave with tote bags full of freebies and a list of societies you didn’t even know existed.
- Society tasters: you can try anything once: dance, debating, gaming, sports… without commitment.
- Campus events: wellbeing workshops, cooking classes, movie nights.
Even if you’re not sure it’s “your thing,” go along anyway as it’s a way to meet people, and you might surprise yourself.
Take care of yourself (you’ll thank yourself later)
Freshers’ is fun, but it can also be exhausting.
- Don’t feel guilty about skipping a night out if you’re shattered.
- Eat properly! yes, pot noodles count in a pinch, but don’t make them your whole diet.
- Drink water and stay hydrated (especially if you’re out late).
You’ll enjoy the week a lot more if you’re not running on empty.
Random little things it helps to know
- Bring cash, some stalls at fayres don’t take cards.
- Grab every freebie you see (pens, pizza vouchers, tote bags as they’ll come in handy).
- Learn how public transport works before you actually need them.
- Keep a portable charger on you, your phone will die quicker than you think.
- Save the number for student support/your accommodation office in your phone for emergencies.
Final thought
The truth about freshers is that it’s just one week. If you don’t meet your best friends immediately, or you miss a few events, it’s fine. You’ve got years ahead of you to explore, join societies, and build your circle. So don’t treat Freshers as a sprint. Think of it as a warm-up lap, you’re just getting started on the best years of your life.
