The first few weeks of university can feel like a whirlwind with new people, new places and a new routine. We want you to make the most of it, so here are some of our top tips for your first few weeks in Belfast. 

Making Connections

Get involved at Freshers

Freshers Week is one of the biggest events on the university calendar for first years, packed with events and activities to help you settle into university life. 

Our 3-day event here at Queen’s takes place in One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union, where you’ll have the chance to chat to clubs and societies (did you know we have over 240 of those?), find out about university teams and opportunities to get involved, as well as the chance to pick up some freebies. 

Check out other university events

The fun doesn’t stop after Freshers! We run events all year round and by keeping an eye on our What’s On, you’ll find out what’s coming up and how you can register your interest. From student céilís and free breakfasts to international fairs and chilled coffee mornings, there’s genuinely something for everyone. 

If you’re living in university accommodation, you’ll also have plenty of chances to join social activities in your building which is a great way to meet new people and help you settle in. 

Joining a Club or Society

One of the best ways to meet new people, practice a hobby or find a new one is to join one (or more if you wish) of our 240+ clubs and societies. We have everything from team sports like Gaelic, Sailing and Football to book clubs, walking clubs and musical theatre. 

Getting to know the campus and city

Explore Belfast

Your first few weeks are the perfect time to explore and get to know your new home, Belfast! Our vibrant city is packed full of things to explore from cosy coffee shops and must-see attractions to beautiful green spaces like Botanic Gardens. 

Weekends are the perfect opportunity to wander around the city (it’s extremely walkable), discover new spots and soak up all that Belfast has to offer. 

You’ll also quickly find your way into Belfast’s nightlife scene, with plenty of student-friendly spots to check out.

Not a big social butterfly? We have an introvert-friendly guide to Belfast that’s got you covered. 

Explore the Campus

You may also want to spend some time getting to know the campus and the surrounding areas from coffee and lunch spots to scoping out the best common spaces for studying and mingling with students. 

• Queen’s Quarter
• Things to do in Belfast

Visit the McClay 

When you start your course, you might think you need to buy all the recommended reading, but did you know we have copies in the McClay? Take some time to visit the McClay Library and get to know all that it has to offer our students.

About the McClay Library

Balancing Uni, Work and Your Budget

Start Budgeting Early 

During your first few weeks, it’s crucial that you set a budget and do your best to stick to it. If you receive a student maintenance loan, it might feel like a big payday but don’t forget it has a lot to cover like rent, food and bills. 

Check out our budgeting tips.

Work While You Study

We understand that university is about more than just studying, and some students find themselves looking for part-time work to make some extra cash and enhance their university experience. With a part-time job, you’ll build confidence, learn valuable skills, make new friends and give your CV a boost. 

At Queen’s, we offer part-time jobs on campus and recommend working no more than 15 hours to manage working alongside the demands of your degree.

More information on working while studying

Try Everything, Ask Anything 

Say Yes!

The best way to fully immerse yourself in university life is to say yes to new experiences, whether it’s joining your classmates for a night out or an evening getting to know your flatmates. Embracing opportunities like these pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow during your time at uni. 

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class. Speaking up early not only helps you get comfortable with discussion but also makes it easier to contribute when the material becomes more complex. Asking thoughtful questions will strengthen your understanding and shows you’re engaged and curious.

Lecturers appreciate students who ask questions because it shows initiative and a willingness to learn. 

Looking After Yourself

Homesickness 

If you’re feeling homesick in your first few weeks, that is completely normal. Many students will be going through the same thing, especially in the first semester, as this is likely the first time spent away from friends and family. 

Student Sarah talks about her experience and dealing with homesickness, with some tips! 

International students may also experience culture shock when moving to Belfast for the first time, whether that’s from food, language, accent or cultural behaviour. 

Student Tuba shares tips on how to deal with culture shock as an international student.

Student Wellbeing 

University life is full of fun, nights out and new experiences. But your safety should always come first. Our Student Wellbeing team is here to support you at every stage of your university journey. 

At the same time, you should take simple precautions and be aware of the basics of staying safe. For more guidance on keeping safe as a student, visit here. 

Find out more

Everything You Need to Do Before the New Term Begins

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

Zoe Brankin Staff Writer | Queen's Global Hi, I'm Zoe, and I'm proud to be part of the Queen's Global team.     Over the past six years, I've held roles that let me create content for a variety of audiences, from start-ups to larger organisations. At Queen's, I'm always exploring new and creative ways to bring fresh content ideas to our main website.   Outside of work, I love reading (I even run a local book club), spending time with my dogs, and never missing an opportunity for a coffee or brunch outing.