The Ultimate Freshers’ Week Guide: Navigating Uni Life Without Going Broke

Results day is around the corner, which means one thing: Freshers' Week is almost here. For the Experience Seeker, it's the first taste of true independence, packed with new faces, new experiences and more society sign-up sheets than you know what to do with.

Of course, all that excitement can come with a few nerves. That's perfectly normal. This Freshers’ Week guide covers what happens during Freshers’ Week, from welcome events and meeting flatmates to budgeting tips and affordable travel, so you can make the most of your first week without breaking the bank.

What happens in Freshers’ Week?

You've probably heard the stories. The legendary nights out. The questionable fancy-dress costumes. The friend of a friend who somehow ended up in another city by sunrise.
While those stories make for good entertainment, university Freshers’ Week is about much more than parties. Here's what happens in Freshers’ Week.

Welcome events

There will be events during the week that aim to introduce you to the university and help you settle in. Events typically include welcome talks from university staff, campus tours, department/ course introductions and much more. These events are a great way to learn more about your university and give a pretty good picture of what to expect during your time. 

Meeting flatmates

Your flatmates will probably be some of the first friends you'll make because they're in the same nervous yet excited boat as you. You don’t need to become best friends overnight or create lasting friendships with them, but they’re great to have around, especially in the first week when everything is still new. 

Freshers’ fairs

This is a popular one amongst Freshers. Freshers’ Fair is a great place to understand the social aspect of university. There will be a plethora of stalls where you can do the following:

• Sign up for societies and clubs
• Learn about volunteering opportunities 
• Discover student services 

Also, it’s a great place to collect freebies! So, if you need a new water bottle or stationery, skip the trip to Tesco and head straight to Freshers’ Fair.

Club nights

The rumours are true. Freshers’ Week hosts a variety of club nights every night. Club nights usually have a theme, so there is something for everyone. However, if clubbing and parties aren’t really your thing, there are lots of other alternatives like games nights, movie nights and society meet-ups.

Balancing the chaos: tips for your first week

All that said, Freshers’ Week is fun but can be overwhelming. It’s important you look after yourself amidst all the excitement. Here’s how to balance the chaotic fun of Freshers’ Week. 

Don't say yes to everything

It might be tempting to say yes to everything to avoid FOMO. However, attending every event, every night out and every gathering can have its toll. Having a night in or just a more low-key evening every once in a while will help recharge your batteries and make the experiences you do choose feel far more enjoyable. 

Make genuine connections

University is a great place for making real and genuine connections. You’re likely to find people with the same hobbies and interests as you through societies and in your course. You don’t need to befriend everyone, just keep an eye out for those who you feel comfortable and supported.  

Learn to budget early

Students are warned about how expensive life at university can be. However, it can still come as a surprise, between rent, groceries and social activities. The good news? A few smart habits can make your money go much further.

• Set a weekly spending limit
• Make the most of student discounts
• Cook at home rather than eating out or getting takeaway 

Mindfulness with your finances goes a long way. And if you’re in need of more money, you can also apply for part-time student jobs. 

Smart travel: student discount coach travel 

One budgeting aspect that takes students by surprise is travel. Travel can be expensive, but it’s often a necessity. Whether it's travelling home, quick weekend getaways or spontaneous adventures out of town, those journeys can add up.

That's why students choose student discount coach travel. FlixBus connects university cities like Southampton, East Anglia, Lancaster and many more. Our coaches are not only affordable but also offer free Wi-Fi and charging points so you can stay connected for less.

Because let's face it: your university experience doesn't stop at campus. Some of your best memories will happen on weekend trips, visits to old friends and journeys home.

Making the most of Freshers’ Week

University Freshers’ Week is a wonderful and exciting time and it’s well worth the hype.  From meeting new people to becoming familiar with surroundings, you’ll find it’s one of the biggest changes you have experienced so far. However, amongst all the fun, freebies and firsts, remember to take things at your own pace. As an Experience Seeker, some of your best university memories will come from stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring new places.