Freshers what my first weeks been like

Settling in okay? sUK member Hayley H writes about what she's learned about her first week or so at uni. Agree or disagree or have other tips? Add your comments by clicking on the button.

Mention the word "university" to almost any 18 year old a few weeks ago would be an instant way to turn them into a nervous wreck, me included. Stopping at home to study seemed a genuis idea 10 months ago at the start of UCAS applications. Getting nearer to the start date, though, I began to have my doubts. Although I’d still have my fantastic boyfriend to go home to every night, I became full of fears that all the living-in students would get to know each other before the first day, leaving me all alone. Actually though, the first day came and it wasn’t too bad.

My concerns of hopelessly wondering around a big, new building to find a room went straight out of the window when I arrived to find a big crowd of people looking about as lost as I felt. Following a group of people, in what I thought was vaguely the right direction, proved to be a successful means in finding meeting rooms. Once in there (and after positioning myself away from the freaks!) I found people to be particularly friendly. Everyone were in the same boat, worried about what was going on and who they were going to meet. Whether in a queue for finance or sitting around in the union, you can always find someone to talk to. Here’s a few things people should be able to identify with, how to get the best your first weeks at uni::

• Go to all the events held around the campus. It’s a great place to mix with everyone and a chance to try your hand at new sports or join new clubs.
• Be prepared for any sort of weather, as you are probably going to have to walk around various parts of the campus in a day.
While it was pouring it down outside, our lecture room was burning hot!
• Listen to what you’ve heard off the older students – they can tell you all the best events (and yes, the queues are really that long!). Sadly though, the commercial fairs raved about by everyone, didn’t seem to be much good at our uni!
• Make the most of visits home to get home cooked food. I get to go home every night but still end up eating junk all day.
• Blag as many freebies as you can over the next few weeks but try and leave all the stuff you’ll never use at the fairs or at the SU. I know they’re free but be strong!
• If, like me, you’re living at home and drive to uni, arrange a few non-driving days to take advantage of all the welcome week parties and drinking sessions. (Unless of course you don’t want to make it to Christmas.) Most of all, have fun and make new friends.

Don’t be nervous, everyone is in the same boat and could all do with a bit of company! What have your first few weeks at uni been like?
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