I asked ChatGPT how to survive Freshers’ Week at Exeter Uni, and here’s what it had to say

Freshers’ Week is just around the corner, and though it can feel daunting, please remember: You shape your own experience.

There’s no rule that says you have to go out every single night, and your liver will thank you if you don’t. There’s nothing worse than having a severe hangover combined with Freshers’ Flu.

When I was a silly fresh I didn’t bother with a wristband or tickets for the big events, and yet I still ended up going out. But honestly, my best memories came from the more wholesome hangouts with my new friends.

But that’s just me; everyone’s experience is different. To give you the ultimate survival guide, I asked ChatGPT for its top tips on how to make it through Freshers’ Week at Exeter, and here’s what it had to say.

‘Go to the Freshers’ Fair’

“Grab all the freebies (yes, pizza vouchers and tote bags are essential student gear) and sign up to a few societies. Even if you don’t commit, it’s a great way to meet people.”

The Freshers’ Fair is where it all goes down, and you can never say no to a good freebie. Every Exeter student’s room has at least three Exeter-themed tote bags that will probably never see the light of day again.

And the best part? We at The Exeter Tab will be roaming around campus. Come find us x

‘Pace yourself on nights out’

“There’ll be a lot of events — TP, Cavern, Fever, or themed halls parties. Don’t feel pressure to go to every single one. Hangovers plus 9am induction talks? Not cute.”

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I’d agree to an extent… just know your limits. If you’re a hardcore party-goer and can handle a week-long bender, go wild. But if you’re like me and need a breather every couple of days, there’s no shame in having a rest.

But also, hungover induction talks are a rite of passage. There’s a sense of community in everyone quietly regretting their life choices.

‘Make your room a home’

“Fairy lights, posters, plants — whatever makes it cosy. You’ll appreciate having a comfy retreat when campus life gets overwhelming.”

I’d heavily emphasise on the warm lighting, whether that’s fairy lights, a salt lamp, or just a regular desk lamp. Anything to take away from the harshness of the main white light.

‘Don’t just stick to your flatmates’

“They might be amazing, they might not be your people — so branch out. Chat to course mates, society members, or even randoms in a queue.”

University is all about meeting people, so break out of your shell and take every opportunity to make new friends!

‘Learn the campus geography’

“Streatham is hilly. Like, seriously hilly. Work out shortcuts (hello, Lafrowda to Forum hill) and maybe invest in comfy trainers.”

Honestly, you can try and find shortcuts but you simply won’t be able to escape the hills (you’ll learn to tolerate them x).

‘Budget (at least a little)’

“Freshers’ Week is full of sneaky costs: Society memberships, drinks, late-night Domino’s. Track your spending so you don’t burn through your loan in Week One.”

No matter how much you try to budget, it never feels like enough. Money comes back but memories last forever… right?

‘Take care of your health’

“Register with the uni health centre and a local GP. Freshers’ Flu is real, and it will hit. Stock up on paracetamol, vitamins, and tea.”

As someone who barely went out but still managed to fall extremely ill with a fever in Freshers’ Week, definitely make sure you’re still alive and well by the end of it (bulk buy honey and lemon).

‘Say yes, but know when to say no’

“Be open to random invites — a pub quiz, a trip to Exmouth beach, a late-night McDonald’s run. But if you’re exhausted, it’s 100% okay to tap out.”

As fun as a spontaneous plan is, don’t feel pressure to please others. If you feel yourself burning out even before lessons have begun, I’d prioritise some self care before your next crazy night out.

‘Explore Exeter beyond campus’

“Walk along the Quay, check out Gandy Street (allegedly JK Rowling’s Diagon Alley inspo), or hop on a train to the beach. Makes a nice break from Freshers’ chaos.”

I’d 100 per cent agree with this point. My most cherished moments in Exeter have come from exploring both the city and its surroundings. Places like Salcombe, Dawlish, Exmouth, and Torquay are all such cute towns to escape to.

‘Don’t stress about finding your group immediately’

“Everyone’s in the same boat — nervous, excited, figuring it out. Your real friends might come in Week One, or Week 10, or even Year Two. No rush.”

So true, you’re constantly meeting new people at uni. Some people meet their best friends on the first day, and others on the last. Everyone’s journey is different, so don’t compare yourself!

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