Welcome Week felt like such a whirlwind. From the excitement of moving in and meeting my flatmates (Big up Jerman Halls!), to navigating welcome events and signing up for multiple clubs and societies I didn’t even know existed, it was a full-on but unforgettable start to life at Harper.
Starting uni brings all sorts of emotions — I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty. With so much change, it can quickly get overwhelming if you don’t pace yourself. So, whether you’re excited to get started or feeling nervous, here’s a glimpse of my own Welcome Week and some tips to help you make the most of it.
My Experience
On move in day, I was nervous about how it would all go. By the end of the first evening however, I realised we were all in the same boat! As a flat we very quickly bonded over our shared love of cheesy 2000’s music, takeaways, and drinking/card games.
The SU events were a real highlight for me. The evenings were filled with themed club nights in The Barn (My favourite being ABBA night!), with some less alcohol focused activities taking place in the daytime such as a colour run, sports, and the HASU Fair.
The Fair was great for freebies and discovering the different clubs and societies Harper has on offer.
Of course, it wasn’t all perfect. I definitely overdid it on the socialising some nights and underestimated how tiring it all could be, especially with the 9am induction classes every day... I would not recommend doing them hungover.
Looking back, I realise I could have taken a break for one or two of the nights without it affecting the friends I made or the experience I had. If anything, I probably would have had a better start to uni if I wasn’t so run down by the end of the week!
Since my first year, changes have been made including the addition of alternative, non-drinking activities in the evening. I would definitely have made the most of these evenings if they ran during my Welcome Week, to stop myself from getting as run down as I did…
My Top Tips for Surviving Welcome Week
- Say Yes – But Not to Everything
Try new things and go to events, but make sure to pace yourself. A night in wont mean missing out. If anything, it will help you enjoy the events you do attend!
- Talk to Everyone
Everyone’s looking to make friends, so don’t be shy about striking up conversations. You never know who you’ll click with.
- Be Open-Minded
Join a club or society that normally you would never consider – it might become your new passion!
- Look After Yourself
Eat properly (Takeaways and pasta don’t count!), drink water, and get some sleep. Your future self will thank you.
- Look Out For Others
The first few weeks can be tough, especially for those away from home for the first time. Check in with your flatmates, and don’t hesitate to use the support available to you such as the SLR’s and Student Services.
Final Thoughts
Welcome Week was the start of an amazing chapter for me – one full of new friends and amazing memories. It can be intense, but with the right balance of fun and rest, then I’m sure you will have just as good a time, if not better!
To all students starting at Harper in September, enjoy every moment that is to come. Step out of your comfort zones, but more importantly look after yourself and have fun!