All the mistakes you should definitely avoid as a fresher

You’ve moved into your new room, said goodbye to your parents, and watched your mum wipe a tear as she drives away. Congrats, one of the most memorable and exciting years of your life has just begun.

Obviously you can’t wait to party all night every night and make unforgettable memories, but there are a number of dos and don'ts you should know about during your first year as a University student.

Getting stuck with the first person you meet

Moving away from home and coming somewhere where you don’t know anyone is intimidating and the pressure of making friends during Freshers' Week can be overwhelming. Because of this, when you speak to someone and discover that you might have a couple of things in common it can feel like a heavy weight is taken off your shoulders, because you’ve potentially found your new soulmate at uni.

However, after hanging out with them for two weeks straight, you might realize that you don’t really click after all. So don’t get stuck with the first person you meet. Put yourself out there, be open, and speak to as many people as possible so you can choose the people you want to hang out with.

Overestimating your alcohol tolerance

Let’s be honest here, being a fresher is all about the sesh. And while you should make the most out of it and enjoy your nights out, don’t overestimate your drinking ability. Try to avoid going too big too soon, especially during Freshers’ Week.

Not only are you going to regret it the next morning when the hangover starts to kick in, but you might also embarrass yourself in front of the people you’ve just met. Remember to be moderate and maybe have a glass of water instead of that fifth tequila shot.

Study too hard

Even though the reason you came to uni in the first place was to study and get a degree, don't forget to have fun at the same time, especially in your first year.

It’s no secret that your first year grades don’t count, so while you should still put effort into your studies and focus on your degree, don’t put too much pressure on yourself and spend all your free time studying. Try to find a healthy work-life balance, socialise and try to make the most out of your first years before things get serious.

Hide in your room

There’s no doubt that making friends and hanging out with people you met two minutes ago feels scary and awkward sometimes.

However, isolating yourself is something you will eventually regret as you will start to feel lonely while all of your flatmates are hanging out together. Try to socialise, even if you don’t like to go out every single night, just hang out in the kitchen and get to know your flatmates, or go to different events during Freshers’ Week so you can meet different people and find new friends.

In a nutshell, don't worry too much and just try to enjoy this new chapter in your life!