Your Freshers’ guide: 10 mistakes to avoid

Setting off the fire alarm at 3am, getting locked out of your accommodation, being sick after your first ever uni night, losing all of your flatmates in the club...all of these are common Freshers' blunders. We're sure you've heard the stories.

It's unlikely that you'll make it through your university experience without making any mistakes at all, but with this Freshers' guide, you can kick things off on the right foot and get through your first week unscathed.

10 Freshers' mistakes to avoid

1. Overpacking

You don't need to bring absolutely everything with you when you move to uni. Storage space in your university accommodation is likely to be quite limited. If you bring too much stuff you'll quickly become irritated by all the clutter. Plus, you might struggle to fit it all in your car.

You only need to bring the essentials and a few additional home comforts to help you settle in. Need help deciding what to take with you? Our comprehensive university packing list should help you narrow down your options.

2. Hiding in your room

Moving into halls can be intimidating. You're in a brand new place, surrounded by all these new people. It can be tempting to hide away in your room and avoid it all. But this is the worst thing you can do. Remember that everyone's in the same boat. Everyone wants to make new friends. The best way to do this is by simply putting yourself out there. Prop your bedroom door open, head into your flat kitchen, and start introducing yourself to your new flatmates. After all, you are going to be living with them for the rest of the year.

3. Getting too drunk

Freshers' Week is an exciting time, and there will be loads of pres, parties, and nights out to go to. Get stuck in and enjoy yourself - but try not to get overly carried away. You don't want to end up getting so drunk that you embarrass yourself or can't remember what happened. You're still finding your footing in a new city, with new friends - you can save getting blackout drunk until later in the term!

4. Skipping intro lectures

In Freshers' Week, you're likely to have a few introductory lectures. These won't cover any of the course content, but will introduce the structure of your course, outline key material, and will help you to set expectations. It might be tempting to skip these, particularly if you've got a bit of a sore head that morning. This is a bad idea. Your intro lectures are the perfect time to meet your coursemates for the first time, explore the campus, and figure out where all your university buildings and lecture rooms are. You could make friends for life at these intro lectures - or at least find someone to sit next to at the next one.

5. Not joining societies

University is the perfect time to try new things. And what better way to do this than by joining a few societies? University societies are a great way to meet new people and expand your horizons. Most societies also hold regular socials so you can bond with your new friends. There's so much choice that there truly is something for everyone. Even if you think clubs aren't your thing, try and join at least one. You won't regret it.

6. Not setting a budget

Your maintenance loan needs to see you through the entire term, not just Freshers' Week. It can be all too tempting to spend it as soon as it drops. Without setting a budget, it's shockingly easy to fritter your way through your savings. Drawing up a plan of what you're intending to spend each week will help you stay on track and ensure you're not struggling at the end of term.

7. Not registering for the GP

It might seem like unnecessary admin to register for a new GP at uni, when you already have one at home. But you'll regret not registering if you ever need urgent medical help. You don't want to have to head home every time you need an appointment or prescription. And believe us, Freshers' flu hits a lot harder than you might think.

Most universities have health centres or GPs attached to them. Registering with these is quick and easy. It usually takes less than five minutes and will save you a lot of time and hassle if you do get sick.

8. Being too loud

Blaring music at 4am or yelling with your friends in the kitchen in the middle of the night is an easy way to make enemies out of your new flatmates. If it gets too bad, you might even end up with a noise complaint and wind up with a fine. Remember, you live in a shared space and you need to be respectful of others. That isn't to say that you can't have any fun, just try and keep it down when it hits the early hours.

9.Not packing fancy dress

A lot of evening events in Freshers' Week will be themed. You don't necessarily need to go all out, but it's fun to dress up a bit. Try and bring a few items of fancy dress with you to uni. You should be able to find out what the Freshers' events are in advance so you can pre-prepare. Plus, if you've got any spares you can lend out, your less organised flatmates will thank you!

10. Worrying about next year's accommodation

A classic Freshers' mistake is jumping into a housing agreement too early, with the first people you meet. We're sure you've heard a few housemate horror stories before, so take a moment to consider who you want to live with before you start househunting.

When you do start looking for a second-year house, don't let yourself be pressured by letting agents. Take the time to look at different options and find something that fits your needs and budget. If you're looking for ways to streamline your search, check out the student accommodation options in your city on StuRents.com.

You're ready for Freshers'

That completes your Freshers' guide! Now you know what pitfalls to avoid, you're ready to go and enjoy your Freshers' experience.

Still feeling apprehensive? We've broken down everything you can expect from your Freshers' Week, from moving-in day to the nights out.