What to expect on the first day of university

Ahead of your first day of university you’ll probably feel a combination of nerves and excitement. To help you quell some of that anxiety and focus on looking forward to getting stuck into this new experience, we’re breaking down exactly what you should expect on your very first day at university.

What happens on the first day of university?

The first day of university will probably fly by. It’s a very busy day, packed with new people and, let’s face it, a fair bit of admin. 

Collect your keys 

The first thing you’ll do when you arrive at your new university is go to your student accommodation and check-in. If you’re in halls, there will usually be a dedicated space to do this. The staff there will give you your keys and show you to your room. They can also answer any questions you might have at this point. Don’t bring any of your belongings to the check-in, you can move all this in afterwards once you know where you’re going. 

Move in and unpack 

Once you’ve found your room and successfully checked in, you can start moving your stuff in. This might take a few trips back and forth! Once everything is in your room, you can begin unpacking and settling in. Take your time with this, there’s no rush. You might find that the first place you shove something is where it stays for the rest of the year! 

You can also take some time to make your new room really feel like your own space. Put up some decorations, get out any home comforts you’ve brought with you, and maybe even some put up some photos of friends and family. 

Meet your flatmates 

Your first day is probably going to be a blur of new names and faces. You’ll meet so many people even just by bumping into them while you’re moving in and unpacking. Try and introduce yourself to all your flatmates on your first day. You might meet them organically in the corridors or the communal spaces, or you can knock on their doors to introduce yourself. It might seem intimidating and scary to do this, but they’re in the same boat you are and they’ll appreciate you being friendly.

Register and collect student ID 

When you get to university, you will probably need to register in person and collect your student ID. Whether this happens on your first day or at a later date depends on your particular university. 

Sometimes you can register and collect your ID when you check into your accommodation but most of the time you’ll need to go to a separate university building. Generally, you are then asked to present a form of ID like your passport or driver’s license to verify your identity. If you haven’t already provided a photo for your ID, you can usually take one when you register.

Of course, this all depends on how your university operates. You should receive details of where, when and how to register via email before you get to university. 

Night out?

Once you’ve moved in, unpacked, and met your flatmates, you’ll probably want to do some kind of communal activity so you can all get to know each other. What this is depends on your personal preferences. You might want a chill night in together having dinner and watching TV. Or, being the first night of Freshers’ Week, you might want to hit up one of the many events being put on and go clubbing. It’s totally up to you.

Top tips for the first day of university 

Following these tips will help you make your first day at university go as smoothly as possible. 

Prop your door open 

Bring a doorstop with you to university so you can prop your door open on your first day. That way, you’ll be able to introduce yourself and meet people who are walking past while you’re unpacking. You can also do other friendly things like putting a post-it note on your door with your name or bringing sweets to give out to your new flatmates when you introduce yourself. It all helps make breaking the ice a little easier.

Bring a pack of cards 

Speaking of breaking the ice, bringing a pack of cards or a simple game can help bring all your flatmates together without any awkwardness. Cards are good for drinking games which can help you get to know each other (and you can partake even if you’re not drinking alcohol). The game will give you something to focus on without any pressure. 

Suggest a communal activity 

Even if games aren’t your thing, you should suggest some sort of communal activity with your flatmates on the first night. This could be anything from making dinner together and watching a film to a heavy pre-drinking session and a night out. See how you’re feeling on the day and assess the vibes of those around you and go with what feels right in the moment.

Bring extra fancy dress

If you are going on any Freshers’ nights out, they will usually have a theme and require some form of fancy dress. You don’t have to go all out and do anything embarrassing if you don’t want to but it’s fun to get involved in some small way. You can usually find a list of the nights out and the themes ahead of time so you can plan ahead. If you bring a bit of extra fancy dress then you can offer to lend these to your flatmates or anyone else you’ve met. Who knows, this could be a great way to make a new friend!

Want more Freshers’ advice?

Still feeling worried? Check out our blog on how to make friends at university for more useful advice.