The do’s and don’ts for Cardiff Freshers’ 2026

Starting uni might be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences a person can go through. But it will definitely be worth it for all the memories and experiences that are to come.

There is definitely no ‘right way’ to experience uni, every person will have different experience but there are definitely some dos and don’ts that will suit most students. To try and find your place try go out of your comfort zone and meet new people to make the most out of your first year at Cardiff Uni.

Here are just a few of some do’s and don’ts on things you should do as a Cardiff Fresher. 

Do go to YOLO

With listening to the constant yapping of lecturers, the pressure of learning new content, and drowning in the overwhelming nerves of joining uni, a mid-week break is something we all yearn for. Well, the SU is to the rescue! YOLO brings the perfect club energy and the best drink deals, possibly making your Wednesdays the highlight of your week. Also merging in themes like YOLOWEEN and SNOWLO, Cardiff Freshers love a challenge to see how many they can go to in a year. 

Do throw flat pre’s

Throwing a successful pre’s will be something you’ll need many attempts to achieve but practice makes perfect so throw as many as possible because they will all be a blast. A flat pre’s before a Wednesday YOLO or a weekend night out is a perfect way to kickstart a night and can even help you grow your friendship group. 

Do join a society

If you think you won’t find your crowd at uni, think again because societies are exactly where they’ll be. Whatever your interests are, whether it’s sports, music, or gaming, there’s a society for anything and everything at Cardiff Uni. With wild dress-up socials, there’s never a dull moment in a society. They even offer Give It A Go’s (GIAGs) so you can try out different socials before becoming fully committed. 

Don’t miss your lectures and seminars

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I know Fresher’s Week might have relaxed your nerves a bit but the biggest challenge at uni is balancing fun and studies. Waking up for 9am lectures are not for the weak and may be tempting to skip but falling behind is not a myth. So plan your nights out and hangover days well because skipping lectures eventually shows. 

Do explore Cardiff

There is an overwhelming amount of things to do in Cardiff. From hidden gems in the arcades to the array of restaurants, cafes and bars, and even major rugby events, you can’t say there’s nothing to do here. Even a walk up to Cardiff Bay is a great way to pass time with even more restaurants to try and plays to see at the Millennium Centre. Christmas is also a major event in the town centre, with lights gleaming from every angle, a huge market and a Winter Wonderland. If you’re coming to Cardiff Uni, I think you couldn’t have picked a more perfect town. 

Don’t blow through your student loan in a week

I know it’s tempting to splurge on drinks, room decor and takeaways, but I assure you, you will need money when you least expect it at uni. Learning to live on a budget with the odd treat here and there will save you from struggle meals and not having money for fun dates with your flatmates and friends. 

Do join The Cardiff Tab

The Cardiff Tab is an amazing place to meet new people and share your ideas. Whether you have years of journalism experience or this is your first try there is something for everyone to try. At the beginning of the semester we will be holding our first open meeting, so come along to meet new friends and start your Cardiff University experience on a high. 

DO ask for help and DONT panic

This might be the first time living alone in a place far from home and it can very easily get isolating and homesickness is a given. But remember you are not alone and Cardiff Uni offer many support systems, especially to help Freshers get settled. If you need any support from the uni, you can find it all here so don’t be afraid to reach out. Reaching out to friends and flatmates are also a great way to find security in your friendships and may bring you even closer, but your family are also there to help however far apart you may be.