What To Expect From Your First Week Of Uni

Starting University is a very confusing yet exciting chapter in your life. As a first-year student or even a returning student coming back to university things can be a bit daunting so it's always nice to have a bit of a guide on what to expect! Here are a few things you can expect before venturing down this new and fun journey ahead.

1. Expect a ton of flyers and discount vouchers from many different promotional stands enticing you to pay them a visit with 20% off bribery tickets. It's always a nice treat, especially in the first week where cooking and cleaning may seem like too much of a chore after tiring induction days and late nights out. Make sure you make use of these offers as freshers' week doesn't last forever sadly. 

2. Expect everything from stationery to cleaning products to be sold out in stores! I know it sounds ridiculous to say but many students will be moving on their own so inventory in stores will be at a low. It's best to shop either beforehand or a couple of weeks after for the goods you need. 

3. Expect to get lost! If you're new to the city it's easy to lose your way and get confused! A top tip is to try to explore your university facilities before lectures and seminars start. Maybe even walk the route to and from university a few times so you have a brief idea. And if all else fails Google Maps and asking people for help is not a bad shout!

4. Expect your lecture halls to be pretty jam-packed the first week! Try to make it to university a little earlier to get a good seat otherwise leaning on the back wall may be your fate. Don't forget your laptop and notepad to jot down any important information.

5. Expect to meet some really nice people. At university, most people do not have any friends or family who have moved or are attending the university with them so there will be people who are looking to make friends. Try attending socials and events specifically organized to help you meet people of similar interests. 

6. Expect to feel a bit overwhelmed. While it's not the most pleasant feeling moving to a new city, making new friends, attending a much larger institution, understanding a whole new concept of teaching, trying to socialize, etc- it can get a bit too much! The best thing is to give yourself some space to reflect on everything and just remember it's only the first week of a whole academic year. Don't give up!

7. Expect to have a good time! University is what you make it to be. Enjoy those late nights at the bar or the run to your 9 a.m. lecture on a Monday morning afterward. It is a time in your life when independence is at its height and being able to enjoy every aspect should be expected!



University is a new experience so learning how to adapt, persevere, and enjoy should most definitely be expected.