As an international student gearing up for the September intake, you are likely feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation about embarking on your academic journey in a new country. From exploring the university application process to securing your visa, accommodation, and more, it’s no surprise that you’ve had a lot on your plate. But with all the preparations, one thing that stands out and is often heard of but never fully understood is Freshers’ Week.
This week is filled with opportunities, new experiences, and a chance to connect with people, but it can also be a little overwhelming. This blog helps you understand precisely what Freshers’ Week is all about and some key dos and don’ts to ensure you make the most of this exciting time.
What Is A Freshers Week?
Freshers’ Week, also known as Welcome Week or Orientation Week, is the official kickoff to your university life. It typically takes place in the first week of the academic year and is specifically designed to help new students settle in, meet people, and get familiar with campus life.
During Freshers’ Week, universities organise a wide range of events and activities, from social mixers and parties to orientation sessions and club fairs. It’s an exciting and often overwhelming time, filled with chances to explore your new environment, make lifelong friends, and discover all the resources available to you during your time at university.
While the week is often associated with fun and socialising, it also serves as an introduction to the academic, social, and personal aspects of university life, ensuring you are well-prepared for the months ahead.
The Do’s And Don’ts Of Freshers Week
Before you go to university and explore your Freshers’ Week, here’s a checklist of key things to keep in mind. Below are the essential dos and don’ts to ensure you make the most of this exciting time.
The Do’s: How to Make the Most of Freshers’ Week
1. Attend Social Events and Mixers
Freshers’ Week is filled with opportunities to meet new people, so make sure to attend social events, pub crawls, and themed parties. These events are great for making friends and getting to know your fellow students. Even if you are not the outgoing type, these events will help you break the ice and start building your social circle.
Also Read: Ways to Get Mixed Up Easily with International Students
2. Explore Your Campus and Surroundings
Take the time to explore your new campus and the surrounding area. Get to know the important buildings, libraries, and student resources available to you. It’s also helpful to locate shops, cafés, and other places you will need on a regular basis. The more familiar you are with your surroundings, the easier your university experience will be.
3. Build a Routine Early On
While Freshers’ Week is all about fun, it’s also a great time to start forming a routine. Try balancing your academic commitments, social activities, and self-care. Establishing a basic structure will make it easier to transition into university life once the semester officially starts. Whether it’s sticking to a regular sleep schedule, planning study sessions, or scheduling downtime for yourself, having a structure early on will make the transition to university life much smoother and less overwhelming.
4. Use Your Student Union’s Resources
Most universities have a Student Union that offers a variety of resources, from club sign-ups to welfare services. Make sure to stop by the Freshers’ Fair to learn about clubs, societies, and volunteer opportunities. The Union is also a great resource for support, so be sure to familiarise yourself with its offerings.
5. Stay Safe and Be Mindful
Always prioritise your safety during this exciting but sometimes chaotic time. Whether you’re heading out to an event, exploring the city, or just hanging out with new friends, keep your personal safety in mind. Stick with friends, avoid risky situations, and be aware of your surroundings.
The Don’ts: What to Avoid During Freshers’ Week
1. Overdo It with Drinking
It’s easy to get caught up in the party atmosphere during Freshers’ Week, but excessive drinking can quickly lead to problems. Pace yourself and remember that your health and well-being come first. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the social side of university life there’s no need to overdo it on day one!
2. Skip Your Orientation Sessions
While social events are a big part of Freshers’ Week, don’t neglect your orientation sessions. These sessions are key to getting the right information about academic requirements, resources available to you, university policies and meeting your professor and lecturers. Skipping them might leave you unprepared when classes start.
3. Compare Yourself to Others
Freshers’ Week can be overwhelming, especially when you are adjusting to life in a new country. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but remember, everyone settles in at their own pace. Some students may seem to have already made tons of friends, while others might still be finding their way. Stay focused on your own journey and don’t rush the process. And remember, university is full of helpful and friendly people, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you need it.
Also Read: On-Campus Student Support Services In Colleges & Universities!
4. Miss Out on Self-Care
Amid all the excitement, it’s easy to neglect your mental and physical well-being. Make sure you are getting enough rest, eating well, and staying hydrated. Taking care of yourself during Freshers’ Week will ensure you are not burned out by the time classes begin.
Also Read: Tips & Tricks For Student Stress Management In 2025
5. Try to Do Everything
Freshers’ Week is filled with events and activities, but you don’t have to do it all. Trying to attend every event can leave you feeling drained. Instead, focus on the activities that interest you the most, and make sure to leave time to relax and recharge. We recommend joining university tours, familiarising yourself with the library and resources available, and sorting out essentials like your bank account and university ID card. Taking care of these tasks early on will help you feel more settled when coursework begins.
Freshers’ Week is an exciting and crucial time as you transition into university life. It’s filled with new experiences, opportunities to make friends, and a chance to get settled into your academic environment. By following the dos and don’ts outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you make the most of this time while keeping your health, well-being, and academic success in check.
As you focus on your studies and social life, UniAcco is here to help with your accommodation needs. Explore UniAcco today and secure your perfect student home!
FAQs
Q1. What is the meaning of Freshers’ week?
Freshers’ Week is the introductory period at university, where new students, or “freshers,” get familiar with campus life, meet peers, and participate in social and academic activities. It’s designed to help students settle into university and start their journey with a sense of community.
Q2. What are the dos and don’ts of the freshers’ week?
Do’s: Attend social events to meet new people and explore campus to get familiar with resources. Start building a routine to balance academics, social life, and self-care.
Don’ts: Don’t overdo drinking or skip orientation sessions as they provide essential information. Avoid comparing yourself to others and make sure to prioritise self-care.
Q3. How to survive Freshers’ week?
To survive Freshers’ Week, stay organised, attend events to meet new people, and ensure you maintain a healthy balance of socialising and resting. It’s essential to avoid overloading yourself and take breaks when needed to prevent burnout.
Q4. What happens in Freshers’ week?
Freshers’ Week is a fun and busy introduction to university life, where new students participate in social events, explore the campus, and get to know their peers. It typically includes orientation sessions, club fairs, social mixers, and opportunities to settle into accommodation while learning about academic resources and student support services.
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