Being a fresher feels like riding a rollercoaster, equal parts exciting, overwhelming, and unpredictable. You’re thrown into a brand new environment, meeting dozens of people, managing your own time, and figuring out how to live independently, all in the space of one week. Whether it’s the buzz of your first student night out or the awkwardness of introducing yourself 20 times in a day, Freshers Week is a wild ride of emotions, and we’ve asked real students what it actually feels like.
“I Felt Totally Out of My Depth for the First Few Days”
Many students describe their first few days as confusing and chaotic. Between figuring out where your lectures are, how to cook pasta without burning it, and navigating the endless stream of icebreaker events, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One student from Sheffield told us: “I had no idea what I was doing. Everyone else looked like they had it together, when in reality, we were all just winging it.” That feeling of uncertainty is normal, and it fades quicker than you’d think.
“It Was the Best Social Whirlwind I’ve Ever Been In”
Freshers Week is packed with social opportunities, flat meals, society fairs, pub quizzes, and themed nights out. For extroverts, it can be one of the most fun times of their entire uni life. You’re constantly meeting new people, swapping social handles, and forming fast friendships. “I met my current housemates at the Freshers Fair,” says Jasmine, a student from Manchester. “We bonded over free pizza and joined the same society that day.”
“There Were Some Lonely Moments, Too”
Not everyone clicks with their flatmates, and not every day is exciting. It’s completely normal to feel homesick or out of place, especially if you’ve moved far from home. Night two or three can hit hard emotionally. That’s why it’s important to know that others feel the same and to take breaks from the social chaos when you need to. Our advice? Read this non-partying guide to Freshers if you’re more introverted or struggling to keep up with the pace.
“I Didn’t Expect to Learn So Much About Myself”
University is more than academics, it’s where most students develop independence, resilience, and confidence. For many, Freshers Week is their first time away from home, budgeting their own money, or deciding what to do with a free afternoon. “By the end of Freshers, I’d learned how to budget, wash clothes, and say no to plans when I needed rest,” says Ayisha from Leeds. It’s a steep learning curve, but an empowering one.
“It Was Exhausting But Worth Every Second”
Fresher life is full-on. Your routine flips upside down, with 2am chats, loud halls, early morning orientations, and constant stimulation. It’s easy to burn out if you don’t pace yourself. But most students agree: the intensity is worth it. The memories, the people you meet, and the stories you’ll retell in second year make it all worth the temporary chaos. For survival tips, check out our Freshers Survival Guide by students who’ve been there.
What Do Most Freshers Say Looking Back?
Looking back, many students laugh at how intense it all felt. The initial stress fades, but the friendships and growth stick around. Freshers Week is more than just parties, it’s the starting point for your university journey. Embrace it in your own way. Don’t worry if your experience doesn’t look like the glossy version online. Everyone feels a bit out of their comfort zone at first. That’s the point, it’s how you grow.
Feeling Nervous? You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling anxious about being a fresher, you’re far from alone. Talk to current students, visit your uni’s wellbeing services, or ask a question directly to one of our student writers who’ve been through it. And remember, whether your Freshers Week is calm, chaotic, or somewhere in between, you’re doing it right.
Frequently asked questions
What does it feel like to be a fresher?
Being a fresher is a whirlwind of new faces, experiences and emotions. It can feel both exciting and overwhelming, with a mix of freedom, nerves, and the pressure to settle in quickly.
Is it normal to feel homesick in the first few weeks?
Completely. Homesickness is common among freshers, even if they don’t talk about it openly. It usually fades as you settle into routines and make friends.
Do freshers always go out partying?
Not at all. While club nights are a big part of Freshers Week for some, many students prefer chill events, coffee catchups, or just getting to know flatmates. There’s no single “right” way to be a fresher.
When do freshers usually start feeling settled?
Most students start feeling more comfortable after the first couple of weeks, especially once classes begin and daily life gets more structured.
Question still unanswered? See our full list of FAQs here or submit your own.
