Hey readers,
Starting university is a milestone moment, packed with excitement, nerves, and some seriously life-changing adventures.
Here are top tips for Freshers starting university, blending practical advice with what real students wish they’d known.
Get Your Life Admin Sorted Early.
University is a world apart from school there’s a lot of independent study and plenty of admin tasks to tick off.
Before the buzz of Freshers’ Week fully kicks in, tackle the essentials: sort out your student ID, key documents, accommodation contract and financial paperwork, and check your timetable so you know where to be and when.
Register with your local GP and dentist, especially in cities where NHS lists can fill up fast.
Familiarise yourself with campus services, apps, and maps they’ll save you time and stress down the line.
Make Friends But Don’t Panic If It’s Slow.
One of the most daunting parts of starting university is meeting new people, but remember, everyone’s in the same boat.
The friends you make during Freshers could be for life, so try to attend social events, introduce yourself, and keep an open mind.
Student bars, society taster events, and even laundry room encounters can spark lifelong friendships.
But if you don’t click with anyone right away, don’t stress.
People settle in at their own pace, and it’s totally normal for friendships to take time.
Balance Fun With Rest.
Freshers’ Week can be a whirlwind of activities, parties, and late nights but don’t feel pressured to attend everything or stay up till sunrise every night.
It’s fine to skip an event or prioritise downtime to decompress and settle in.
Pace yourself, know your limits, and don’t let FOMO lead to burnout.
University is a marathon, not a sprint.
Budget Like a Pro.
Managing money is often the toughest hurdle for new students.
Before term even starts, work out a budget, prioritising essentials like rent, groceries, travel, and course materials.
Use budgeting apps like Monzo, Emma, or Splitwise to track spending and avoid end-of-term panic.
Take advantage of student discounts, and beware of Freshers wristbands or events that seem overpriced choose wisely and don’t blow your budget in the first week.
Stock Up and Eat Well.
Freshers flu is real, and you’ll want to avoid feeling rubbish when you’re busy making new mates.
Eating well and staying hydrated is crucial for keeping your energy up and your immune system fighting.
Stock up on groceries, multivitamins, and some easy meals.
Try to cook at least a couple of basic dishes; it’ll save money and help bond with new friends.
Eating something green once in a while works wonders, and meal prep is your friend during busy weeks.
Dive Into Societies But Don’t Overcommit.
Fresher’s Fayre is your ticket to exploring clubs, societies, and sports teams.
Say yes to taster sessions, pick a few societies you genuinely like, and don’t feel pressured to sign up for everything at once.
Societies are a brilliant way to meet people with similar interests, but quality over quantity ensures your schedule stays manageable and you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Personalise Your Space.
Your uni room becomes your base camp after long days of lectures and socialising, it’s where you’ll recharge.
Make it cosy with familiar comforts from home, organise your workspace, and style your space with things like photos, fairy lights, or plants.
A tidy, personalised room helps you decompress and find a sense of security.
Don’t Buy All the Textbooks.
Don’t Buy All the Textbooks.
University reading lists can be daunting, but before running out to buy every book, check your library or student groups for second-hand options.
Libraries usually stock all the core texts, and you can often find freebies or discounts via older students, campus forums, Vinted, or local charity shops.
Save your money for experiences and essentials beyond your studies.
Homesickness Happens And That’s Okay.
Thousands of students feel homesick in their first weeks at uni.
Whether you’re missing family or the comfort of your hometown, know this is entirely normal and it does get easier.
Reach out to friends, family, or uni support services if you need to talk.
Bring personal items from home photos, favourite snacks, or your comfiest blanket for comfort on tough days.
Stay Safe.
Starting uni means new places and new freedoms, but safety should always come first.
Be mindful of your surroundings, especially after nights out.
Travel in pairs where possible, keep an eye on your belongings, and don’t leave drinks unattended.
Familiarise yourself with campus security and local emergency contacts, and trust your instincts when exploring your new city.
Be Yourself and Take the Pressure Off.
If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, that’s okay.
University is a chance to reinvent yourself, but you don’t have to change to fit in.
Don’t put pressure on yourself for everything to be perfect from day one.
Let things unfold naturally and be patient memories and friendships happen when you least expect them.
Freshers is much more than a party week it’s the beginning of an amazing new chapter.
Use this time to get organised, meet new people, and find a balance that works for you.
Whether you thrive on nights out, quiet moments, or discovering new hobbies, your university experience is yours to shape.
Stay curious, stay safe, and most importantly, give yourself permission to enjoy the ride.
University is about learning (both in and out of lectures), so worry less about fitting in and more about finding your own path.
Trust that challenges are temporary; what you gain will last a lifetime.
Cheers for reading X
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