5 Things Every Fresher Should Know

You’re heading off to university and you’ve probably thought of everything… Well, almost. Here are five things you should remember as a fresher.

Get your meningitis vaccine

As a fresher you need to get the ACWY vaccine and it’s so important that you do. Freshers are in the “at risk” group in terms of getting meningitis.

It’s important to get your vaccines and swot up on the subject. Learn the symptoms and look out for your friends, in return for them looking out for you.

Keep your head in the game when you’re no longer a fresher too. Find out everything you can and get medical advice ASAP if you’re concerned about you or a friend. Talk to medical experts and ensure you’re as protected as possible. It’s only common sense!

It’s okay to be in your overdraft

It’s not ideal but a student overdraft is there for a reason. It could, however, be wise to get a job for a few hours a week and be savvy with where your money is going. With far too many books to purchase and maintenance loans that barely cover your accommodation, you can cut yourself some slack.

It’s important to know all there is to know about your student overdraft. Most student overdrafts won’t charge interest when you have an arranged overdraft and it’s all easy to keep track of with mobile banking apps. Just make sure you do keep an eye on your money.

You’re not supposed to be rich as a student. An overdraft is there to be used when necessary. Relax.

First year doesn’t mean no work

For most freshers, the first year of university doesn’t count towards their overall grade. While this may seem like a free pass to spend a year drinking and sleeping in until 1pm, effective time management can make things easier for you in the long run.

Most students notice they’re far less spoon-fed once they arrive at university. For this reason, first year should see you getting to grips with university essay writing and what markers will expect from them come exam time.

It can seem alien but understanding the process in first year will help you survive the rest of your time at university.

Societies are awesome but you don’t have to join one

Societies are a brilliant way to make friends and have fun when you arrive at university. You can meet like-minded people, and you can meet people who are nothing like you. You can excel in your favourite sport or pick up a new hobby altogether. Societies are a brilliant way of filling your spare hours and socialising too.

But, contrary to many bloggers’ advice, this doesn’t mean you have to join one. You’re not a failure if you don’t sign up to every stall at the freshers fair! It’s your life. Live it the way you want.

Staying in isn’t a bad thing

Much like it doesn’t matter if you don’t drink at university, nor does it matter if you stay in. You’ll meet plenty of people that don’t like to drink and you can have just as much fun going out or socialising without alcohol.

Meanwhile, saying no to a night out however often you want is totally fine! Catch up on a series, have a good sleep and never feel guilty for looking after number one.

So many people will be telling you what you should or shouldn’t do at university, but uni is what you make of it. Do you the way you want to, and everything will turn out fine.

Kathryn ─ known as Kat even though she prefers Kath ─ studied English Language at Cardiff University and now wants to finally write that book she’s always been meaning to write. Check out her Twitter, Instagram and blog to delve into her mind further.

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