First Week at University Survival Guide

Starting university is exciting, but let's be honest –  it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Between moving into a new place, meeting hundreds of new people, and figuring out where your lectures are, your first week can feel like a whirlwind.

The good news? Everyone else is feeling pretty much the same.

Here's your survival guide to getting through your first week at university.

Don't Put Pressure on Yourself to Find Your Best Friends Immediately

One of the biggest myths about university is that you'll meet your best friends on day one. While that does happen for some people, it's definitely not the norm.

You'll probably meet loads of people during Welcome Week. Some you'll click with instantly, others you'll never see again, and that's completely normal. Friendships take time to grow, so don't panic if you haven't found "your people" by the end of the week.

Be open, say yes to conversations, and remember that everyone is looking for connection too.

Go to Welcome Week Events (Even If You Feel Nervous)

It can be tempting to stay in your room after a busy day, especially if you're naturally shy or feeling homesick.

But Welcome Week is designed to help you settle in. Whether it's a campus tour, society fair, quiz night or coffee morning, these events are full of people who are all in the same position as you.

You don't have to stay for hours. Even popping in for twenty minutes is a win.

Learn Your Way Around Campus

Spend some time exploring before teaching starts.

Find where your lectures will be, locate the library, nearest café, Students' Union, study spaces and anywhere else you think you'll need. Knowing where you're going will make those first few days of classes much less stressful.

Getting a little lost is practically a university tradition, so don't worry if it takes a few attempts.

Remember That It's OK to Feel Homesick

Even if university has been your dream for years, it's completely normal to miss home.

You might miss your family, your friends, your pets or even just having your favourite mug in the cupboard.

Homesickness usually comes in waves and often gets easier as you settle into a routine. Stay in touch with people back home, but try to balance that with getting involved where you are now.

Join a Society (Or Two)

One of the easiest ways to meet people with similar interests is through clubs and societies.

Whether you're into sport, gaming, photography, music, volunteering or something completely niche, there's probably a society for it.

You don't have to commit forever either. Welcome Week is the perfect time to try something new and see what you enjoy.

Don't Compare Your University Experience

Social media has a funny way of making it look like everyone else is having the "perfect" university experience.

The reality? Most people are just posting the highlights.

If someone seems to have made twenty new friends while you're still figuring out how to use the washing machine, don't worry. Everyone settles in at their own pace.

Your university experience doesn't have to look like anyone else's.

Look After Yourself

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement, but don't forget the basics.

Try to eat proper meals, drink plenty of water, get some sleep where you can and give yourself a bit of downtime.

University is a marathon, not a sprint. Looking after yourself now will make the rest of the term much easier.

Ask for Help If You Need It

No one expects you to know everything in your first week.

If you're confused about your timetable, can't find a building, or you're struggling emotionally, ask someone. Student Ambassadors, Students' Union staff, lecturers and support teams are all there to help.

Asking questions isn't a sign that you're failing – it's part of settling into university.

Finally… Take a Breath

Your first week doesn't have to be perfect.

You don't need to attend every event, meet everyone on your course or have your entire university life figured out by Friday.

Take things one day at a time, be kind to yourself, and remember that settling in is a process.

Before you know it, the campus that felt completely unfamiliar will start to feel like home.