Top Tips for your First Week at University

Your first week at university won’t define how the rest of your years at university will go. Whether you’ve had a blast or you’ve found parts challenging, we’re here to help you make the most of your time here. Our Residence Life Team share their top tips for getting through your first week at university.

Holly

In your first week before lectures begin, it’s a good idea to spend some time getting to know your flatmates. This can definitely make you feel more at home in your accommodation, and by chatting to them, you’ll likely realise that you’re all experiencing the same feelings and nerves.

Don’t panic if your flat is a little quiet at first – take the first step in bringing your flatmates together by knocking on their doors to break the ice. I’d also recommend bringing a door stop with you and keeping your bedroom door open in the first week, so your flatmates can pop in and say hello!

Joe

Within your first week at university, I recommend trying to find a sense of community within your accommodation. Whether it’s amongst your block, staircase or just your floor, it can be so comforting to make friends that live nearby.

Within my first week of University I found meeting people as a group to be far less intimidating than going solo. I’d suggest making the bold move with your flatmates to introduce yourself to your neighbours, as you never know who you might meet. Whether it’s someone to make small talk with on your way to lectures or a lifelong friend, familiar faces can make a place feel like home.

Lia

During the excitement and rush of the first week it can be easy to forget to take care of yourself. Something I wish I had been more conscious of during my first week was to make sure I was still eating regularly throughout the day, the food I was eating was supporting my immune system (such as Vitamin C) and I was still getting around 8 hours sleep a night. This first week usually lacks routine so reminding yourself of your body’s needs can help create structure during this time and your body will thank you once lectures start!

Erin

University life can be a little chaotic at the beginning before you get into timetabled lectures. Therefore, it’s important to keep yourself busy and take advantage of the opportunities on offer by attending as many of the fairs and events as possible. From societies and sports to brands and support services, there will be so many stalls to visit and lots of freebies! We know it can all be quite overwhelming; however, the events may help to add structure to your days. It’s best to take them one at a time and maybe invite some new friends along.