This article was written by Connor Steele, a Freshers Expert at Unifresher. Connor studied at University of Sussex.

Key takeaways

  • Freshers Week is less about partying and more about meeting people, exploring your new city and easing into university life
  • Balance is everything, attend events that interest you, but make time to rest, eat well and settle into your space
  • It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or homesick in your first week, most students go through it, and it will pass
  • Join societies, try out different events and say yes to new experiences, you never know what will stick

Freshers Week can feel overwhelming, exciting and even a bit chaotic, but it’s also one of the most memorable parts of university. From unexpected social mishaps to health scares and budgeting fails, we’ve compiled the ultimate survival guide based on real experiences from students who’ve actually been there. This is your no-nonsense toolkit for surviving and thriving during Freshers.

1. Sort the Essentials Before You Arrive

Your uni experience will run smoother if you’ve prepped the basics. Make sure your student ID, key documents, accommodation contract and finances are sorted before moving in. Knowing your way around your Freshers Week packing list will save you hassle on day one.

2. Expect a Wild Mix of Emotions

It’s normal to feel excited one minute and anxious the next. Starting university is a massive life change. Don’t feel like you have to be “on” all the time. Schedule downtime and stay connected with home if needed. If it all feels too much, remember you can always speak to your university wellbeing service.

3. You Don’t Have to Party Every Night

Contrary to myth, Freshers Week is not one long bender. If clubbing isn’t your thing, you’re not alone. Our guide on what to do if you don’t like partying during Freshers has plenty of alternatives, from film nights to chill society events. Pick what works for you.

4. Join at Least One Society (Even If You’re Not Sure)

Societies are the best way to meet like-minded people and feel more rooted in uni life. Whether it’s gaming, baking, dance or politics, go to a few taster sessions and see what sticks. They’re low-commitment at first but often lead to your closest friendships.

5. Be Smart With Your Budget

With everything from takeaways to pub crawls fighting for your wallet, Freshers Week can be a financial minefield. Set a weekly spending limit and use apps like Monzo or Emma to track it. Our student budgeting tips cover how to stretch your maintenance loan without missing out.

6. Eat Something Green (Sometimes)

Freshers flu is real. Long nights, poor nutrition and lots of new germs can leave your immune system battered. Stock up on basics like Berocca, multivitamins and easy meals. Eating something green once in a while and staying hydrated can go a long way, trust us.

7. Be Curious, Not Cliquey

You don’t have to find your “forever friends” in week one. Keep an open mind and talk to people beyond your flat. Friendships often come from the most unexpected places, seminars, societies, even your launderette queue.

8. Know Where the Key Campus Places Are

Familiarise yourself with your uni’s key services, student union, wellbeing centre, libraries, finance office. This will save you serious time if you run into issues later. Look for campus maps or apps provided by your uni during the Freshers Fair.

9. Sort Your Room for Sanity

Your uni room becomes your personal retreat. Bring small comforts from home, organise your workspace, and keep some fairy lights or plants around. A tidy space will help you decompress after social overload.

10. Don’t Panic If You’re Not Loving It Right Away

Some people click instantly, others take weeks or even months to find their groove. If you’re not having the “best week of your life,” you’re not failing. Everyone settles at their own pace. The week is only the beginning, not the full story.

Final Words From Students Who’ve Been There

Freshers Week is about more than club nights and free Domino’s. It’s about setting yourself up, making the most of a clean slate and starting your university life with confidence (and a decent hangover cure). You won’t do it perfectly and that’s the point. Show up, be yourself, and keep it flexible.

Still unsure what to expect? Check out our guides on Freshers myths vs reality and mistakes to avoid so you’re fully prepped.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best way to meet people during Freshers?

Say yes to events, join societies, and chat with flatmates and coursemates. Most people are in the same boat, open to making new friends.

Keep in touch with home, build a routine, and don’t isolate yourself. Uni support services and societies can help you settle in too.

Absolutely. Freshers isn’t just about partying. There are loads of non-alcoholic socials, game nights, food tours, and daytime events to get involved in.

Use your calendar, prep essentials ahead of time, and give yourself downtime to recharge. A little planning goes a long way.

Question still unanswered? See our full list of FAQs here or submit your own.

Author

  • Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.

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