How to make the most of term two as a first year student

Term two is very much underway, and for many of us, it feels as if time is flying by. Whereas, for others, it’s been dragging along and we just can’t wait for summer. As term two is the final full term of timetabled lessons, seminars and lectures, its time to enjoy every moment (while also being an academic weapon). Whether you’re a TP regular or prefer to have a night in with your flatmates, there is so much of first year you will miss and have to enjoy while you still can. So, here’s how to make the most out of term two by saying “yes”, trying new things and making memories.

1. Explore Exeter

If term 1 was for sticking to our regular coffee spots and Impy drinks, term two is for exploring new parts of Exeter. Exeter has the perfect mixture of relaxing and fun things to get up to, if you dare venture out of campus. I’d recommend the quaint ‘Sundays’ Cafe for a tea and croissant down at the Quay, lovely for both a cosy rainy day or a sunny walk as we begin to enter spring. 

2. Nights in

It can be easy to get caught up in the pressures of going out but schedule a night in once in a while. Whilst it’s completely fine if your perfect night-in consists of lying in bed and snacking alone, there is also an array of wholesome night ins to enjoy with friends and flatmates. Why not try a cheese and wine night? Bake a camembert and cut some sourdough, paired with background music and a movie to follow…and you’ve still got a fun, yet quiet, night.

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3. Go to more University events

Get involved with the university and attend the events that you missed out on in term one. This point in first year is definitely the time to throw yourself into uni culture. Take Varsity for example – the perfect opportunity to chuck on any green clothing and show support for the uni, whether it be the 1st or 500th rugby game you’ve watched. Take pictures with friends and cheer at every try scored (but please be careful of the post-match stampedes to the coaches)

4. Find new study spaces

As much as we may like to, we mustn’t forget the workload that can come with term two. Switch up your routine by finding a new study space to work in. Our campus offers many hidden spots to get you out of a library rut, such as in the Student Guild. Or alternatively, you could work in a picturesque cafe such as that of Reed Hall – the definition of romanticising your degree.

5. Explore outside of Exeter

Now that you’re well and truly settled into Exeter, perhaps it’s time to widen the realms and explore just outside of the city. Exmouth beach is a must as the days begin to get longer and sunnier. Just a half an hour train ride away, it is the ideal escape from our busy daily lives. Watch the sunset and stroll on the sandy shores or take a dip in the sea if you’re feeling bold. Trains from St. Davids can also take you to gorgeous towns like Totnes and Topsham – the combination of castles, museums and local food makes a unique and exciting day out.

6. Impromptu sweet treats

We all know that it’s sweet treats that keep us going but get adventurous with them. Melt some marshmallows and chocolate in the microwave and dip biscuits in the mix – a creative treat to make your evening exciting. Or get together and make pancakes, a delicious dessert to draw all your flatmates out of their rooms.

7. Cook more

If, admittedly like me, you spent the first few weeks of uni eating ready meals and oven pizzas, term two is an excellent time to whip out the cookbook. Uni is the best place to learn to cook, as you can recruit the help of any generous flatmates or fall back on a Deliveroo. Just be brave and try.

8. Societies

It’s certainly not too late to join a society. Whether it be a society which you attend every week or simply picking up a fitness class where you can, it’s great to add more variety to your university experience, helping to achieve a good work-life balance.

Societies can also be a great place to meet new people. One of the best things about university is the fact that you never have to stop making friends. Whilst you may have found your ride or dies in term one, there is no limit to how many friends you can have and societies are such a great space to find people who share your interests and hobbies.

9. Don’t stress about exams

With term three looming, it’s important that you remember to not stress too much about exams and results. First year, and honestly university as a whole, is all about having fun – your wellbeing is a priority over anything else. Don’t worry if you need a day off sometimes to binge watch TV or take a detox in nature. Plan your time so that deadlines don’t creep up on you and reach out to your professors for more support. Be kind to yourself and remember how normal it is to feel overwhelmed sometimes – there is a lot going on.

10. Go out and have fun

Finally, though I’m sure most of you do not need this article to tell you to go out, relish in the student bubble that is first year accommodation. Take term two to appreciate living in our very own village of other first year students. There’s something about looking in the windows at other flats’ pres and walking into town in a sea of students which makes nights out all the more fun. You’re only a fresher once!