How to survive Fresher’s Week

So what is it?

Renowned for fun, frolics, falling over and free stuff, do not mistake Fresher’s Week for a term synonymous with the Best 7 Days of your Life.

Freshers’ Weeks is of course essential and will no doubt amuse, bemuse and exhaust even the most eager and energetic amongst you.

Here are a spattering of tips:

• Try to join in as much as you can – this is a great opportunity to get to know others and meet people from a wonderfully diverse social spectrum. You’ll have the freedom to meet others without hang-ups and the gremlin of social scepticism growling on your shoulder. At the same time be wary of jumping into friendships too quickly as you don’t want to spend the rest of your 3 years trying to untangle yourself from members of the Knitting Club or Morris Dancing Society.
• Remember 1st impressions last – don’t get too carried away as any reputation you get will be hard to shake. Don’t be forever remembered as “The One who…”. You want to be able to make the most of opportunities and remember them! Try not to pass out as its early days and others might not notice you are missing. Also familiarise yourself with no go areas – a drunken disorientated student is an easy target.
• Make contact with people from your course and halls as these are the people you will see the most. If your living in halls then keep your door open, have a few clean mugs, a jar of Nescafe and a packet of hobnobs on the go. Befriend the night porter – he’ll be a handy person to know when you lock yourself out at 3 in the morning or have dripped ketchup and grease from your kebab on the newly carpeted floor. If you live in a flat then bond with roommates but don’t let them put all the bills in your name.
• Try to be friendly but don’t worry if you are feeling a bit out of your depth – remember everyone else is in the same boat as you.
• Blag as much free stuff as you can – not much in life comes for free and things will seem expensive after the first week of reckless abandon.