Welcome to university life! For new students, Freshers Week, is one of the most exciting, unpredictable, and overwhelming times of the year. It’s the official kick-off to your university experience, filled with social events, academic introductions, and the start of your student independence.

Starting university means navigating a brand-new lifestyle: living away from home, adjusting to new routines, and building a social circle from scratch. With so much happening during Freshers Week, it’s easy to feel both thrilled and totally out of your depth. That’s where these survival tips come in.

Here’s how to thrive (not just survive) your Freshers Week and set yourself up for a successful and memorable experience at university.

1. Dive Into Freshers Week Events

Freshers Week is bursting with activities — from themed club nights and quizzes to film screenings, society fairs, and campus socials. Make the most of these events; they’re a fantastic way to meet other freshers, explore university life, and feel more connected to your new environment.

Don’t feel pressured to attend every single thing. Whether you’re an extrovert or more introverted, it’s all about finding the right balance between socializing and giving yourself downtime.

2. Explore Your University Campus and Beyond

During Welcome Week, set aside time to get familiar with your university campus. Locate your lecture halls, libraries, cafeterias, and student union spaces. Understanding your layout early will ease your anxiety when academic life starts.

Also explore the local area — from student-friendly cafes and supermarkets to green spaces and transport links. Knowing your surroundings will make your new town or city feel more like home, especially after Freshers Week ends.

3. Find Your Favourite Spots: Food, Fun, and Nightlife

University towns are often packed with hidden gems — especially places ideal for students on a budget. During Freshers Week, go on a mini adventure to discover where to grab affordable eats, chill with new mates, or enjoy a night out.

Ask other freshers, student reps, or locals for recommendations. You’ll quickly find your go-to spots, whether it’s a quirky brunch café, an indie cinema, or a buzzing student bar.

4. Don’t Skip Orientation or Welcome Week Sessions

While parties get a lot of the hype, Freshers Week is also full of useful orientation events hosted by your university. These include campus tours, safety briefings, mental health workshops, and academic guidance sessions.

They may seem optional, but they’ll give you vital info about university support services, course expectations, and tips for student success. Plus, they’re another opportunity to meet fellow freshers in a lower-pressure setting.

5. Get Smart About Student Budgeting

With freebies everywhere, it’s easy to overspend during Freshers Week. But now’s the perfect time to build good budgeting habits for university life.

Track your spending using a budgeting app or spreadsheet, and prioritize essentials like groceries, transport, and course materials. Set aside a weekly budget for social events — Freshers Week won’t be the only time you’ll want a night out!

Pro tip: look into student bank accounts with perks like railcards, cashback, or interest-free overdrafts.

6. Register With a Local GP Practice

Among all the fun of Welcome Week, don’t forget to register with a nearby GP. If you need medical care later in the term, you’ll be glad you sorted this early.

Most universities will guide freshers through the process, and it usually only takes a few minutes online. Don’t wait until you’re unwell — tick it off your to-do list during Freshers Week.

7. Check Out Clubs and Societies (But Pace Yourself)

Joining societies is one of the best parts of Freshers Week. Whether it’s drama, debate, dodgeball, or Dungeons & Dragons, there’s something for everyone. Clubs are a great way to make friends outside your course and enrich your university experience.

But don’t overcommit. It’s okay to take your time and try a few things before deciding what fits best. University is a marathon, not a sprint — you’ll have plenty of chances to get involved throughout the year.

8. Protect Your Mental Health

Freshers Week can be emotionally intense. It’s normal to feel everything from excitement to loneliness, especially during such a major life change.

Remember: every fresher is in the same boat. Talk to friends, reach out to student support services, and be kind to yourself. Most universities have on-campus wellbeing services, peer support groups, and confidential counselling.

Make time for self-care — sleep, eat well, drink water, and don’t hesitate to take a night off if you need it.

9. Prioritise Meaningful Connections

It’s tempting to try and meet as many people as possible during Freshers Week, but it’s better to focus on quality over quantity. Real friendships take time.

Find people you connect with — whether through halls, your course, or a shared interest. Don’t worry if you don’t click with everyone right away. University is full of chances to meet new people, both during Welcome Week and well beyond.

10. Stay Organised From the Start

While Freshers Week is mostly about settling in, it’s smart to get organised early. Use a planner, calendar, or app to track important dates like course registrations, society sign-ups, and orientation events.

Staying on top of things will help reduce stress and make the jump into academic life smoother once lectures begin.

11. Drink Responsibly — Or Not At All

Drinking is a common feature of many Freshers Week events, but it’s absolutely okay to skip alcohol or stick to your limits. You don’t need to drink to enjoy university life.

If you do drink, pace yourself, eat beforehand, and stay hydrated. There’s no pressure to keep up with others, and many universities now offer alcohol-free events during Welcome Week too.

12. Get Active and Stay Energised

University gyms often offer deals for freshers, so this is a great time to try a new fitness class, join a sports team, or just go for a morning jog around campus. Physical activity is one of the best ways to clear your mind, boost your energy, and meet new people.

Even if you’re not into traditional workouts, look for relaxed options like yoga, swimming, or walking groups during Freshers Week.

13. Say Yes to New Experiences

One of the best things about Freshers Week is the sheer variety of things to do. Be open to new experiences — attend that random society taster, say hi to someone new in the lunch queue, or try out a local food you’ve never had before.

University is all about growth, and Welcome Week is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Freshers Week

Freshers Week is your chance to set the tone for your university journey. It’s a week full of possibilities — new friendships, exciting discoveries, and personal growth. Yes, it can be messy and overwhelming, but with the right mindset (and this guide), you’ll be ready to take it all in stride.

So take a breath, put yourself out there, and most importantly — enjoy it. Welcome to university life!