University campuses around the globe are filled with clubbing enthusiasts. Surviving uni isn’t easy. Of course, you need to develop a study plan, motivate yourself, assessments are harder and exams are tough. They say the first week is the hardest and for many people, that’s true. To embrace all that life as a university student has to offer, there are many rituals you need to participate in and observe. Here, we hand you your survival guide for getting through your first week of university.
One: Making friends
Its definitely one of the most difficult things to do, but there are many ways to meet new people. If you’re living in a college style of accommodation, try to spend your time in the communal areas of the house like the lounge room, kitchen or dining hall. Take the opportunity to socialise with people either at uni bar parties, college pub crawls, meal times or join a sporting team. You could sign up to be part of a club like a reading group, a film society or a wine community. It’s also important to really know the guys and girls in your course. They help with homework, introduce you to other people and you’re studying the same degree so chances are that your interests will be quite similar.
Two: Going out
Uni is all about embracing everything new and different about being in a new place with new people. Sure, we expect and encourage you to hit the books once in a while, but letting your hair down is also a huge part of being a university student. Don’t just think the explosion of pub crawls, uni bars, parties and game nights are only in the first week. Let me inform you, they are on through the entire semester. Remember to drink stacks of water between drinks and just before you head to bed. Take some vitamins like Berocca and have a substantial meal before heading out on the booze.
Three: sex and drugs
A huge part of going to uni involves experimentation. It’s a time where you can figure out who you are, but there are often times where your judgment can be clouded. If your going to have sex be sure to know your partner for more than two seconds, use protection and watch for STIs. When it comes to drugs, you should remember that drugs aren’t regulated well and you can never be sure what has been added to them.
Four: food
For most of us, starting university means moving out of home and away from mum’s lamb roasts. While I’m a fan of the frozen dinners, others get take out, but if you’re like me and finances are limited, cooking is your best option. You don’t have to be a master chef to survive, keep it simple. If you are up in time for breakfast, toasts are cheap, quick, easy and don’t require a plate so less washing up. Universities usually have really cheap, healthy meals on offer at their cafes and meal halls for five or 10 bucks. Pasta and rice with a few vegetables or chicken are easy and cheap as well. Best of all, they are dishes you can reheat and eat the next day, share with others and are healthy.
Five: Have fun
Uni isn’t easy, not for anyone. Remember to manage your time, get a good balance of food, sleep and relaxation into your day. Study hard – that is what you are there for in the first place. Do what makes you happy, don’t be afraid to try something new and don’t ever feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with – uni is your time. Don’t waste it, use it wisely!
