Freshers' Week is a week which universities run before the start of the academic term, in order to help new students settle in.
During Freshers' Week there will be a wide range of activities available to you, from bar crawls to trips to amusement parks to Freshers' balls. Whatever the activities on offer, they are there to ensure you enjoy yourself and to encourage you to make new friends. One thing that you will need to get used to is being asked the same few questions repeatedly – your name, where you're from, what course you're doing, what A Levels you did and what you did over the summer. Don't worry – these questions will stop after the first week or so!
Unfortunately, there is also a less interesting but essential side to Freshers' Week. During this first week at university or college you will be expected to complete any necessary registration forms. For instance, you will need to register with the university and perhaps also with your department. In addition, there may be student finance and/or accommodation forms to complete. You should also receive your NUS card during Freshers' Week. This card is proof of your student status and entitles you to discounts in a range of shops and restaurants.
It might sound like there will be a lot for you to sort out during Freshers' Week but don't worry as you'll be given all the details by your university or college prior to your arrival. If Freshers' Week doesn't turn out to be the best week of your life, don't worry – many people feel disorientated during the first week and have a better time once they've had chance to settle in.
Student Perspectives
“I remember Fresher's week as the most intensely social week of my life. The atmosphere was fantastic.”
Colin, History, University of York.
“The best part was meeting new like-minded people, the worst was all the forms I had to fill in.”
Diane, Mature student, Horticulture, Askham Bryan College.