With so many fun things to do during freshers’ week, it can be easy to get swept into the flow of university life and forget to meet the people you should. Between partying and socialising, it’s a good idea to make these connections sooner rather than later.
GP
People talk about ‘Freshers’ Flu’ every year. As you are exposed to so many new people, often in high-risk environments like clubs and packed lecture theatres, illnesses spread quickly. You don’t want to come down with a case of mumps or glandular fever without access to a doctor. So it is better to register with a new GP practise at uni before you really need it!
If you’re sexually active it is also worth checking out the details of your local sexual health clinic.
Personal Tutor
Typically, you will have the same personal tutor throughout your degree, so it’s a good idea to get on their good side early on. They may arrange a meeting with you in the first week. If not, drop them a quick email introducing yourself. It doesn’t have to be anything too formal!
Nearby Flats
Meeting your flatmates is a given. When you share a kitchen, living area, and often bathroom, with a person it’s hard not to get to know them. But getting to know others in the same halls outside your flat is a good idea too. If your accommodation is arranged into blocks or floors, set up a group chat and invite some people over. This one is definitely better to do in freshers’ week. It can be awkward knocking on the door and introducing yourself to someone who has been your neighbour for three months.
Disability Support
If you have any kind of disability, be it a physical disability, learning disability, or mental health condition, that you might want support for in your studies it is better to contact disability support sooner rather than later. Take it from me, arguing with them about exam adjustments a week before the scheduled date is not worth the hassle. If you think you will need disability support, sort it out as soon as possible.
Hairdresser
Okay, this one might not be quite as important as the others. However, unless your new university is very close to home or you only get your hair done a couple of times a year, you’re going to need to find a new hairdresser. Don’t be the person who lets their hair grow out to ridiculous lengths because they don’t want to find a new hairdresser. Instead take advantage of freshers’ offers many hairdressers will be offering in the first few weeks of term.
Societies
Most universities will host a societies fair. That where you find out about all the different student groups you can join. Societies are one of the best ways to make friends at uni and many will host free taster events in the first few weeks. That way, you can have a go without paying the full membership fee yet.
Don’t leave these things too late. It will only cause you stress later down the line. But remember first and foremost to enjoy your freshers’ week!