Freshers’ Week is one of the most exciting times in any university student’s life. It’s the moment when everything begins – new friendships, new experiences, and a fresh start in a new city or town. Here at Mighty Student Living, we know how important it is to make the most of this fun and vibrant period, so we've crafted this guide to help you navigate through Freshers’ Week and ensure you’re ready for the best possible start to your university journey.
What is Freshers’ Week?
Freshers' Week is all about introducing first-year students, or "freshers," to university life. It's an exciting time filled with social events, inductions, fairs, and activities that help new students settle in, meet others, and explore their new city.
At its core, Freshers' Week is designed to help you find your feet in this new chapter. It’s an opportunity to make friends, get to know your campus, and start building your university experience. Most UK universities hold Freshers’ Week in mid to late September, so be sure to check your specific university’s schedule!
What to Expect During Freshers’ Week
Freshers’ Week is more than just a week of parties (though there will be plenty of those too!). Here’s what you can expect:
1. Course Inductions
While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of Freshers' Week, don’t forget about your course inductions. These are essential for getting a head start on your studies. They’ll give you a chance to meet your tutors, receive your timetable, and understand the layout of your course.
2. Campus Tours
Navigating your new campus can be overwhelming, but campus tours are a great way to familiarise yourself with your surroundings. It’s the perfect opportunity to find where your lecture theatres, libraries, and other essential locations are before classes begin.
3. Welcome and Society Fairs
These fairs are where you’ll find out about all the clubs, societies, and extracurricular activities your university offers. From sports clubs and societies to interest groups and volunteering opportunities, Freshers’ fairs offer something for everyone. You may even discover new hobbies or passions!
4. Club Nights and Social Events
Freshers' Week is known for its vibrant nightlife. From themed club nights to pub quizzes and open-mic sessions, there’s something for every taste. Keep an eye on the events in your local area – Lancaster has a lively student scene with plenty of student-friendly spots to explore. Just remember to pace yourself so you’re ready for the week ahead.
5. Freebies and Discounts
Local businesses love Freshers' Week as much as students do! From free food to exclusive student discounts, there’s no shortage of offers during this time. Make sure to take advantage of these promotions, as they’re a great way to discover new places around town and save some cash.
Top Tips for Making the Most of Freshers’ Week
1. Budget Wisely
Freshers’ Week can be costly if you’re not careful, especially with so many events and activities to choose from. Set yourself a budget for the week to avoid overspending. Remember, it’s just the start of your university journey, so you’ll want your finances to last the whole term!
2. Get Involved
Say yes to things you wouldn’t normally do. Freshers' Week is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and try new activities. Join a society, attend a sports club taster session, or strike up a conversation with someone new at a social event. You never know where it might lead.
3. Don’t Skip the Boring Stuff
It’s easy to focus solely on the fun aspects of Freshers’ Week, but don’t forget about the administrative tasks. Make sure you register with your GP, sort out your student ID, and sign up for any important university services. Getting these out of the way early on will save you a headache later.
4. Balance Fun with Rest
With so many events happening, Freshers' Week can be physically and mentally draining. It’s essential to pace yourself and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. After all, you’ll want to be fresh and ready for your first lectures once the week is over.
5. Familiarise Yourself with Lancaster
You’ll be calling Lancaster home for the next few years, so use Freshers’ Week to explore! Take a stroll through the city centre, visit Williamson Park, or check out the Castle. Getting to know your new city will help you feel more settled and give you plenty to talk about with new friends.
FAQs
Can anyone attend Freshers' Week events? Yes! Freshers' Week events are open to all first-year students. Some events, particularly at local clubs and bars, are also open to students from other years, so you may bump into older students too.
Do I need to attend my course inductions? Absolutely! Course inductions are vital for understanding your university’s expectations and meeting your academic staff. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get settled into your course.
Will I be able to bring friends to events? While some university-specific events may be restricted to enrolled students, many Freshers' Week activities, especially club nights and pub quizzes, are open to guests.
In Conclusion
Freshers' Week is an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to have fun, make lasting connections, and lay the foundation for a successful university career. Whether you’re partying with your new flatmates, joining societies, or exploring Lancaster’s local haunts, make sure you soak up every moment.
At Mighty Student Living, we’re here to help you make the most of your time at university. If you’re still looking for accommodation or need advice on student living in Lancaster, don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’re always happy to help!
Here’s to an amazing Freshers' Week!
