Making the most of your first week at University

Whilst freshers’ week may be the most anticipated week of your university life, it can also be quite daunting.  In this blog, Undergraduate student Simran explores how to ensure that you maximise your opportunities for personal growth and make the most out of your freshers’ week:

Step out of your comfort zone

This is a new beginning for you, so take it as a chance to do things you usually wouldn’t do. Warwick University has a beautiful and diverse community, meaning you can meet people from all over the world. Embrace and learn about new cultures and perhaps try some different foods!

Plan and explore the campus

Getting lost is practically a rite of passage in the first term at Warwick, but the online map will be your best friend. Nonetheless, I recommend you take time during your first week to explore campus. Find hidden study spots or grab a hot drink at Curiositea, and not too many drinks at Terrace Bar! Familiarising yourself with key locations will save you stress later. Find your department, the Student Union and the pharmacy (freshers’ flu is real).

Attend the Freshers’ Fair, but be strategic

Freshers’ Fair can easily be extremely overwhelming with over 250 societies and sports clubs screaming for your attention. But don’t worry, take a look at some societies before going and shortlist some that could interest you. Follow their Instagram pages to see when their events are. Many societies organise icebreakers and game nights in the first week, which is a great way to speak to your peers without the awkwardness.

Start building your routine

While the first week is a chaotic mix of social events and activities, it’s also a good time to start setting a routine. Get in a routine of waking up at a consistent time, setting up your study space and meal-prepping (this is harder than it sounds!). Use the first week to figure out what works for you, whether it’s morning runs around the campus lakes or cheeky evening snacks from Rootes Grocery Store!

Introduce yourself to everyone you meet

In your first week, every interaction is an opportunity to build connections. Introduce yourself to your flatmates, course peers and people you meet in societies. A simple introduction can go a long way in building great friendships. If I hadn't pushed myself to talk to strangers in my lectures, I wouldn't have some of the amazing friendships I have now.

Explore life beyond campus

While the campus has plenty to offer, don’t forget to go out. Visit Coventry’s city centre for restaurants (keep an eye out for turtle bay’s student deals) or head to Leamington Spa for student nightlife. Knowing what’s nearby helps you feel more at home and gives you options for when you need a change of environment.

Keep an open mind (and manage expectations)

Not every moment of your first week will go according to plan, and that’s okay. Some moments might feel awkward and you might feel overwhelmed by the amount of new faces. Give yourself permission to take breaks and recharge when needed. The first week is just the beginning and you will definitely forget a lot of names but give yourself time.

Capture the memories

Your first week will fly by, so don’t forget to document it. These memories will be fun to look back on in years to come when you're in your final year feeling old.
Embrace the chaos and most importantly, be yourself.