With summer drawing to a close and the arrival of pumpkin-spiced lattes on the horizon, Freshers’ Week is almost upon us. Whether you’re a fresher eager to dive in or a returning student hoping to relive the excitement (and momentarily forget about that looming dissertation), now is the perfect time to check out the array of vibrant events ahead.
Academic Welcome Fair and campus tours
Kick off Freshers’ Week on the 16th with the Streatham Academic Welcome Fair in the Great Hall. This is a brilliant opportunity to learn about academic-based societies and get acquainted with Exeter’s academic community.
Tickets are also available for guided campus and city tours and the two campus scavenger hunts, offering a perfect chance to find your new favourite study spots.
‘Meet Our Societies’ Welcome Fair
Let’s not forget our enrichment-based societies! Stop by the “Meet Our Societies” welcome fair held all week in the Forum. It’s an excellent chance to familiarise yourself with Exeter’s range of societies and network with committee members.
Returning students: remember that new societies pop up every year, so it’s still worth checking out the fair!
Chill Zone and Campus Support
If Freshers’ Week gets too hectic, the Chill Zone at The Greenhouse will provide a designated quiet space throughout the week. Members of the Student Guild will also be available to chat at the Great Hall Piazza and the Quad at St Luke’s all week, usually with plenty of fun freebies like lanyards and tote bags on hand.
‘Give It a Go’ events
The Guild’s infamous ‘Give It a Go’ events are perfect opportunities to meet people and help you find your community. This year’s highlights include Basketball Connect 4 on the Magnolia Lawn (16th), a bungee run at the St Luke’s Quad (17th), an inflatable assault course (18th), a trip to Exmouth Beach (19th), and a make your own macramé keyring workshop (23rd).
Finally, an honourable mention for the Taylor Swift fans… the Guild is also offering an Eras Style Friendship Bracelet Making session at The Greenhouse on the 20th, a creative way to decide if the Taylor Swift Society could be your wildest dream come true!
Dive in and say “yes”
University life extends beyond pure academics. Whatever your interests may be, seize Freshers’ Week as an opportunity to dive in, engage and start making the most of your time here.
Bottom line: don’t be afraid to say “yes” and try something new!
Good luck and have fun – you’re going to love it!
