All the overbearing nervousness during your first week at university might make you think of multiple worst-case scenarios, of everything that could possibly go wrong. However, with the right mindset and an optimistic attitude, you can kick off your brand-new academic year in the most stress-free way possible. So here is a list of things you DON’T have to worry about during the first week!

Remembering Names

You will likely meet a lot of new people during the fair, orientation, lectures, and socials. Being unable to remember the names of each person you meet is more than expected. So, just politely smile, apologise and ask for their name again the next time you see them. It is not embarrassing. It is real. And certainly not something to get overwhelmed by.

Stress Management Guide for Students Before the New Academic Year

Icebreakers

Almost every class you walk into could inevitably start with a ‘Please introduce yourself and here’s a little game to make everyone feel welcome/comfortable’. If you are usually not very enthusiastic about social situations, this one particularly might feel like a nightmare. The good news is many are awkward while speaking when the entire class is looking at them. And the ones who aren’t, would still understand what you are going through if you happen to stutter or misspeak a word!

Nobody is judging you during small interactions. In fact, they are secretly cheering you on when you appear to be intimidated by the whole ordeal.

Making Friends/Being Lonely

Making new friends or becoming a part of a ‘friend group’ is everyone’s secret worry – I mean, no one likes feeling left out. If questions like ‘What if people don’t like me?’ or ‘What if I don’t fit in?’ constantly bother you, it is time to remind yourself that everyone’s a little lost at university, and there are multiple ways to form new connections, like joining a society, participating in events, interacting with peers during tutorials, etc. When many others are on the same boat, it is easier to make friends quicker than you think possible.

BLOG: How to Make Friends at University

Attending Every Event

While attending all the events and socialising every single day of your first week might not be hard for some people, it is important to realise you can take a break! The first week at university is typically packed with several events, but none of them are mandatory. Take it at your own pace and remember to relax. Keeping a clear head, chilling out, and trying not to feel too much of FOMO is essential.

What's on at Queen's

Academic Preparation

To an extent, you can try to be prepared for the ‘studying’ part of university life by ensuring your laptop or other required devices are running properly, you have sufficient note-taking supplies and other stationery, you have at least glanced through your reading list, etc., but don’t worry about being ‘thorough’ or ‘smart’ about every topic. You can take your time figuring out your coursework during the upcoming weeks.

Joining Societies/Clubs

During the freshers’ fair, more than a hundred societies might turn up with their stands looking for new members to join them. While this might feel overwhelming, it is only an opportunity to grab freebies, explore every avenue available, and just have a look around. Most societies have registration open year-round, so there is no expectation to instantly decide or commit. Clubs and societies are supposed to be spaces where you can engage in activities you are passionate about. So don’t do one randomly just because you are ‘expected to’. Instead, take your time in trying out new things!

Getting Lost

Last but not the least, if you are afraid of getting lost inside campus while finding your classrooms/buildings, worry not, someone can help you. I can still remember the kind woman who showed me to the room where my first English lecture was held at in the Peter Froggatt Centre in my first year. Thus, don’t panic! Additionally, you can also sign up for campus and library tours to be generally more aware of your surroundings! These free tours happen during the first month or so for students to feel better acquainted with the campus.

Ultimately, just make sure to have a fun and fulfilling time during your first week and try not to overthink about trivial things! It is okay to feel a bit disoriented, and nervous situations can be tackled through simple efforts and affirmations to yourself that everything will turn out fine.

Find out more

Queen's Pre-Semester Welcome

Top Tips for Your First Few Weeks at Queen’s University Belfast

Everything You Need to Know as a First-Year Queen’s University Student

Magdalene Natasha Charles Anthropology and English | Undergraduate Student | India I'm an undergraduate student pursuing Anthropology and English at Queen's. Originally from Chennai, India, I've now moved to Belfast for my studies. In my free time, I like to write poetry, and I've self-published my own collection ('Subdued Cries' on Amazon). I'm an aspiring novelist and I hope to inspire people through my writing journey. I also journal, and am fond of frolicking (or taking calming walks) through parks and gardens. I'm extremely passionate about reading and my current favourite is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my personal and professional skills, and hope to gain meaningful experience during my time here at Queen's.