Freshers; for most people it will be the first time they experience University and city life. New accommodation, new friends, new surroundings, it can all be a little overwhelming at first, but fear not, the seasoned and university weary team at TheMet Online have teamed up with The View to bring you a quick (but hopefully useful) guide to what Freshers is all about at your new University!

 

If you only do one thing all Freshers, make sure you take a trip to your Freshers fair. This will really help you get a sense of how much university life has to offer you. Almost all the societies field a stand, urging you to join up. From our enormous list of sporting societies, to course specific, cultural or religious, political, you are guaranteed to find something that speaks to you. Societies are an amazing way to meet new friends with similar interests to you, in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

 

Ask almost any student about their Freshers experience, and one thing stands out above all else; partying. Throughout your halls of residence, there will be many a party; it’s up to you to make the most of it. One of the best parts on university life is the inclusive, friendly nature of the students you’re sharing your experience with, and there’s no better place to see this than your halls, so get out there, and make some friends!

 

Leeds nightlife is unequalled in variety and quality, so make sure you head out and experience it for yourself. Whatever your taste in music, clubs, or pubs there will be something out there for you. Freshers is the time to find out what.

 

However, all of this does not come cheap. It is well worth taking into consideration how much Freshers is going to cost you, and putting aside a little extra money. You’ll be buying all your own food, paying you’re rent and bills, most of you will have text books and stationary to buy, these costs can really build up, and fast. It’s definitely worth signing up for a student bank account. Shop around though, lots of banks tie in things like free rail cards and insurance and such, so look out for the best deal.

 

Moving away from home can be hard, and leaving behind your friends and family very emotional; however, you will find your new housemates are in a very similar position, so if you’re feeling a little down, you can always talk to them about it. If that doesn’t help, a quick phone call home should do the trick. Don’t worry if you are feeling lonely over Freshers, or finding it difficult finding your feet; get in touch with Leeds Nightline, or your union advice service, both number are available online. These deal with a huge variety of issues anonymously, so please keep them in mind throughout your time at university.

 

Protecting your property is always a good idea, and should not be put off. Around 20% of student burglaries take place in the first 6 weeks of the university year, so take a few precautions, like insuring your valuables, and follow the advice of the local constabulary; lock all your doors and windows and don’t leave any valuables on show.

 

For most of you, your new surroundings will be totally alien; Freshers is the time to get to know them a little better. Have a wonder around. Find your local shops, bus stops, and routes too and from university. Do be careful though, get a feel for your local area, and try not to walk anywhere alone, especially at night. If you find yourself stuck anywhere, you can always ring Amber Cars, they will trade your student card for the cost of your fair, then you recover your card from the student union by paying them your fair.

 

Finally, just try and enjoy yourself, be safe, and most importantly, make sure you make it to university! Good luck everybody!