Getting to grips with freshers week

September is almost upon us, which means the annual migration of students to university cities around the UK is all set to take place. Whilst many of the students will be returning for second, third and fourth years, a substantial amount will be heading to Leeds for the very first time. Going to university, particularly if you’re moving away from home, offers a number of new challenges, opportunities and responsibilities that you won’t previously have been accustomed to. Whilst for the most part, heading off to a new city is an exciting new time; it can be tough to settle in an entirely new environment for those first few weeks.  There are many lessons and skills you’ll pick up within the freshers period of your new lifestyle, so here are our top tips for new freshers, in our Leeds city guide. 

Explore Leeds 

Leeds is one of the UK’s biggest and most vibrant cities, so it’s well worth dedicating a few hours to simply get our and wander the streets. There is a lot to offer in the city, and having a browse of the shopping, entertainment and dining options available to you will allow you to start feeling at home. Make the most of your free time before your coursework really starts to mount up, and where possible, head out and try new locations in the area with your newly found friends. 

Give everything a try 

To make the most of your first couple of weeks as a fresher, make sure you don’t leave it until the last minute to arrive at uni and begin settling in. With all the unpacking and saying goodbye that moving out brings, it can take a couple of days for the whole process to be sorted. Once you move in and get to know your housemates, it’s time to make the most of what is available to you. The first couple of weeks at university are generally aimed at making first year students feel as at home as possible, with daytime activities running to provide integration opportunities, and many of the lessons aiming to introduce you to fellow course mates. 

Learn to manage money 

Budgeting is the nightmare of every new student. To most, you’ll be making the transition from the easy life living at home, to having outgoings like rent, daily expenses and food shopping. Whilst the first month is definitely one to enjoy, as we mention above, you’ll soon find that you’ll need to keep a close eye on your bank balance. Budgeting is a life skill that sets you up for life, and if you can manage it from year one of university, then you’re all set.