Preparing for Freshers' Week: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Posted on 15 August, 2024 by Administrator All PostsStarting university is an exciting milestone, and Freshers' Week is the perfect introduction to your new life in Lancaster. At Mighty Student Living, we’re here to ensure you have everything you need to make this week as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're moving into student accommodation for the first time or just need a refresher on what to expect, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
What is Freshers' Week?
Freshers' Week, also known as Welcome Week, is a unique opportunity for new students to get acquainted with university life before diving into academic responsibilities. This week is packed with activities, from orientation sessions to social events, designed to help you settle in and make new friends. At Lancaster University, Freshers' Week typically starts at the end of September and runs into early October, coinciding with the start of the academic year.
Essential Preparations
Move-in Day: Get Settled Early
At Mighty Student Living, we recommend moving into your accommodation as early as possible to get a head start on settling in. Lancaster’s student accommodations are conveniently located near the university, making it easy to familiarise yourself with your new surroundings. Before unpacking, take some time to explore your new location—find the nearest supermarket, locate bus stops, and get a feel for the local area.
Organise Your Documentation
Registration at Lancaster University often requires you to present various documents such as your acceptance letter, ID, and possibly your student finance information. Ensure you have all these documents ready to avoid any last-minute stress. During Freshers' Week, you'll also attend various registration and orientation sessions, so it’s crucial to stay organised.
Budgeting Tips for Freshers
Financial planning is key to surviving Freshers' Week without blowing through your student loan. A weekly budget of around £44 is recommended for groceries in Lancaster, but be sure to allocate additional funds for social events. Take advantage of student discounts offered by local stores and eateries—we provide all of our students with an exclusive Mighty Student discount card for use with many local businesses.
Making the Most of Freshers' Week
4. Explore Campus and Lancaster
Lancaster is a city rich in history and culture, making it an exciting place to study. Freshers' Week is your chance to explore both the campus and the city. Attend campus tours to get familiar with important locations like lecture halls, libraries, and student support services. Outside of campus, don’t miss the chance to visit landmarks such as Lancaster Castle or take a stroll along the picturesque River Lune.
5. Join Societies and Clubs
The heart of university life lies in its societies and clubs. Lancaster University offers over 170 societies, ranging from academic groups to sports teams and niche interest clubs. Freshers' fairs are the best place to discover these opportunities—sign up for those that pique your interest. Whether you’re into sports, arts, or activism, joining a society is a great way to meet like-minded people and enhance your university experience.
6. Stay Safe and Healthy
Freshers' Week is known for its parties and social gatherings, but it’s important to stay safe. Lancaster is generally a safe city, but always stick with friends during nights out, keep an eye on your belongings, and drink responsibly. Mighty Student Living also encourages all students to register with a local GP early on to avoid any delays in accessing healthcare when needed.
Wrapping Up Freshers' Week
By the end of Freshers' Week, you’ll have a solid foundation for your university life in Lancaster. You’ll know your way around campus, have made new friends, and be ready to tackle the academic challenges ahead. Remember, Mighty Student Living is here to support you throughout your time at university. Whether you need help with accommodation or tips on living in Lancaster, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for Freshers' Week is about more than just packing your bags—it’s about setting the stage for a successful and enjoyable university experience. With the right preparation, you can make the most of this exciting time and start your journey at Lancaster University on the right foot. For more personalised advice or assistance with your accommodation, contact Mighty Student Living today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.