Panic! Everything seems to be going wrong after going through clearing and you have had to find a house with a bunch of strangers. You’re probably feeling anxious about not living on campus with the other freshers, afraid that you will miss out on that freshers fun everyone talks about. But don’t worry, even if you’re not living in halls there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make friends.
Firstly, I would recommend that you and your new housemates invest in a freshers wristband. This way you all have access to loads of events for freshers fortnight. It will not only give you the opportunity to meet new people and make memories but the chance to bond with your house. The people that you live with are likely to become some of your closest friends, so it’s important to spend time with them rather than just looking for people elsewhere. Going on day trips with your housemates is a great way to bond over the first few weeks of Uni. Although much of freshers is about partying, the day activities, such as a walk to the Mumbles, is also a fantastic way of getting to know your housemates.
Social media is so useful throughout freshers. Joining a group chat with people such as your new course mates will help you keep up to date with not only academic events but will also alert you to any social activities going on. In freshers everyone is in the same boat, so don’t be afraid to turn up to an event if you haven’t met the people yet, because they haven’t either!
Finally, don’t stress. Friendships can’t be forced; relax, and be yourself. If you don’t want to go to an event don’t push yourself. Go to the events and societies that interest you. In those places you’ll find people with minds alike to yourself where friendships are more likely to flourish.
By Kathryn Lock
