Freshers’ week: the urban legend of university life. Everyone paints it as this non-stop party fest with new faces, loads of drinks, and that one roommate who never remembers their key. As an introverted person, the first week of university can understandably be a daunting experience for many young people. Just the thought of the freshers’ fair is enough for anyone to feel pressured. But what if huge parties aren’t your scene? Feeling a bit nervous about navigating it all? Chill out; we got you covered. This isn’t just any guide – this is your introverted, cosy blanket, cuppa tea guide – to help you conquer freshers’ week with ease.
Hey, so what’s the deal with Freshers’ Week anyway?
Let’s break it down. Freshers’ week is that epic intro into university life – a blend of social events, club promotions, and heaps of freebies. But here’s the catch – it’s what you make of it. If going hard every night sounds exhausting, that’s cool. Not every fresher’s week has to leave you feeling hungover, after all!
If you’re more about checking out daytime events and heading in for an early night, that’s also cool. The week’s primary purpose? Helping you settle in, and find your crew and your groove.
Yep, I’m the Freshers’ Week introvert…So what?
Okay, here’s the tea. It’s 100% a-okay to be an introvert during freshers’ week. In fact, you’ve got your own set of superpowers. You’re probably better at those deep, meaningful conversations, and you notice little details that others might miss.
So, while others are out trying to remember the names of the 20 people they just met, you might be having a memorable chat with one or two people who’ll be your mates for the entire uni journey. Celebrate that uniqueness!
Remember, there’s a lot more beyond freshers’ week. Check out our introvert’s survival guide to university for more tips.
Introvert power in week 1
You know what’s underrated? Those small moments. Sharing a sneaky pizza at 3am with your roommate, binge-watching a series together, or having an impromptu heart-to-heart.
Not every great memory needs to be from a wild party. As an introvert, you have a knack for creating and appreciating these intimate moments. Embrace them. Create a cosy space in your room, have an open-door policy when you feel like company, and enjoy those low-key connections.
Making new friends in your first week will set you up for your remaining years!
Plan it out, but keep it chill
Being spontaneous is great, but a little planning never hurt anyone. Especially if the idea of unplanned events sends you into a spiral. So grab that freshers’ booklet or app and circle the stuff that intrigues you. Maybe it’s that low-key coffee house gig or the film night at the student union. Plan for some downtime too. Pencil in “me time” just like you would for any event, because recharging is key.
New mates: It ain’t a numbers game
Pop culture paints uni friendships like it’s all about rolling with a massive crew. Reality check: it’s not. It’s about finding your tribe – those couple of people who get your vibe.
Instead of aiming to meet everyone, focus on meaningful interactions. Maybe it’s helping someone during moving-in day or striking a convo with someone wearing your favourite band’s tee. It’s these organic interactions that often lead to lasting friendships.
Secret Escape Spots
University campuses are full of little nooks and crannies that are just begging to be discovered. As an introvert, having a secret spot to escape to can be a lifesaver. Maybe it’s a quiet corner in the library, a secluded bench in the gardens, or even a cosy cafe off-campus.
Venture out in between classes or during downtime to find these spots. You’d be surprised at how comforting it can be to know there’s a place you can retreat to when the hustle and bustle get too much. Plus, these spots can turn into perfect places for one-on-one hangouts!
Clubs and societies: Not just for the extroverts
Clubs and societies? Absolute goldmines for finding like-minded peeps. Don’t let the initial rush of sign-ups overwhelm you. Do your research and find groups that genuinely interest you.
It could be anything – a book club, photography society, or even a meme appreciation group. The bonus? Meetings often have a structured format, so you don’t need to stress about endless small talk.
Plus, having shared interests is a built-in conversation starter. So, get out there and find your niche – it’s a fab way to meet people without the loud music and crowded rooms.
Keeping it real with new friends
Real talk: You don’t have to be up for everything. If clubbing isn’t your scene, there’s no rule saying you have to go. Instead, suggest alternatives. How about hosting a chill movie night or a Come Dine With Me style eve? Or even just grabbing coffee in the afternoon.
University friendships thrive on authenticity. Being open about your comfort zone won’t push people away; instead, it’ll draw the right ones closer. And hey, you’d be surprised by how many fellow freshers would prefer a quiet chat over a cuppa to a sweaty club night.
Finding your groove
You’re in a new place with new rules, and this is the perfect time to set your rhythm. If you’re not a morning person, perhaps don’t take those 8 AM lectures. Need a day in between social activities? Block out your calendar. It’s all about balance.
If you’ve had a long night out, perhaps the next day is a Netflix binge in your PJs. Listen to what your body and mind are telling you, and set your pace accordingly. Trust us, both your social battery and your academic life will thank you.
It’s cool to feel overwhelmed
With all the change and whirlwind activities, feeling overwhelmed isn’t just common; it’s perfectly normal when starting university. Remember, every single fresher is navigating this new world alongside you. Some might just be better at hiding their jitters.
If you ever feel like it’s too much, reach out. Whether it’s to a roommate, a new friend, or uni support services, there’s always help available. And sometimes, just voicing your worries can make them feel less daunting. After all, university is as much a journey of self-discovery as it is about academics.
For more ways to survive freshers, read our advice for freshers week from a former student.
