Freshers
I know the first few weeks here can be rather daunting but we're here in Union to do everything we can to help you out in settling in.
In the first few weeks there are loads of AMAZING things organised; I could waffle on about how great they are, but instead why don't you check out the ents section of the website for yourself!
If you've got any nagging questions you feel you need to ask before you arrive why not check out our Freshers FAQ's or alternatively have a look at the UBU group on Facebook (if you haven't signed up to this yet - well done, it is the ultimate student time stealer!)
Settling In:
Freshers' week can be daunting. Being at university can be daunting.
Maybe you've been out of education for a while; maybe you've never lived in a big city; maybe you're concerned about being away from friends and family... Everyone has different worries, but virtually everyone is in the same situation; getting used to new people and a new lifestyle.
Settling in properly will take time, so don't feel you need to have new best friends and understand your course by the end of the first week! It may seem like everyone around you has done exactly that, but it is more than likely that they are feeling the same as you.
Essentials before you arrive...
With the overload of information that you will have already had, and the forms you have filled in, you can be forgiven for thinking that this is some kind of test to see if you are ready to come to University. That is not the aim, everyone just thinks their information is the most important, so don't panic.
Read the Registration Pack sent by the University and ensure you meet all of the deadlines for submitting paperwork.
Don't forget to bring...
All the usual - clothes, bedding, kitchen stuff, sportswear, a bag to take to lectures... But also:
- Fancy dress outfits (school uniform, beachwear, cowboys and indians...just to name a few!)
- Formal wear - for the Freshers' Ball
- An alarm clock to make sure you don't oversleep after a night out
- An umbrella or waterproofs of some description - this is Bristol after all!
- Tea and biscuits - to offer to your new friends
...and in the first few weeks
Again, the Registration Pack should be your bible, but don't forget to:
- Go to hall or other introductory talks
- Go to introductory lectures in your department
- Construct your lecture/seminar/tutorial timetable
- Register with the Student Health Service
- Register with your faculty (and pick up your student card)
- Go to the Fresher's Fair in the Students' Union and sign up to new and exciting clubs and societies, pick up lots of freebies and find out about your lovely Union.
