Freshers
A realistic Guide to life at UCLan - written by students!
By Lindsay Blair, 1st year, BA ( Hons) Journalism
Ever heard anyone say that Freshers’ Week is over-rated?
Well, before I came to university I had. Don’t believe it. Make your own decision. Freshers’ Week is all about getting involved. It is the perfect opportunity to meet those friends in those random situations. I am not, under any circumstances saying that if you don’t take part in Freshers’, you won’t meet people, but it is a great event to have fun and experience a new place with new people.
The Freshers’ Fair is a great place to pick up those vital freebies, such as discount vouchers and free kitchen utensils (these WILL come in handy). Freshers’ Week also offers a Clubs and Society’s Fair, which I would recommend going to. Even if you don’t join a club or a society, at least you know what’s on offer. Plus, the clubs and societies often offer their very own social events, such as fancy dress nights and balls.
On the topic of fancy dress, be prepared to become an expert on the fancy dress scene. So far, since becoming a student in September 2008, I have dressed up many times: from a ‘chav’, a cat, a golfer, a Santa Clause and a ‘neon raver’ to dressing as a granny and going out in my pyjamas. If fancy dress isn’t really your thing, still get involved. Chances are you will probably enjoy it.
Partying aside, the first year at university develops you as a person and propels you into ‘adulthood’. You will learn many valuable life-lessons, learn about yourself as a mature person and learn how much you value your life at home. You will become the independent person, leading to many successes courtesy of a degree.
Yes, university does bring a workload, but keep on top of it and make sure you enjoy every minute.