The Alternative Fresher’s Week

It’s the Friday before move-in day and last minute packing is in full swing. Mum has packed enough food to feed an army – I’m not even in self-catered halls. The nerves hit a while ago, but Freshers’, once a vague spot in the horizon, is imminent.

We’ve all heard the horror stories: the awkwardness of waking up in a strange place (with a stranger beside you), the heavy drinking and, of course, the killer hangovers. Life in St Andrews was not going to be an effortless transition from my sleepy country village. Needless to say I was a little apprehensive, but that’s the best thing about Freshers’: Everyone else is too.

Luckily, I found the tamest Freshers’ in the UK. Instead of drunken benders, I’ve had tipsy tea parties (highly recommended). Yes, it may be useful if we had another kettle, but attempting to navigate a pan and the hob after a few too many shots is part of the fun. Sitting down with a game of cards, a nice cuppa and a biscuit is not only a relaxing round off to the evening but is also a brilliant hangover preventer.

The Vic and Ma Bells may be enticing, but who needs a loud club when you have ceilidhs? Difficult to say and difficult to do, but they make for a perfect ice breaker. There is something about being collectively clumsy which acts as an instant friend maker. Of course, you’re bound to get the odd Scot who actually knows what they’re doing, but we desperately need them, otherwise we’d end up in a heap on the floor.

All in all by the end of the week you’re left with slightly better dance skills, the friends you’d never thought you’d make on Saturday and, of course, the infamous Freshers’ Flu.

So is this the new scene of Freshers’? No more ‘drink, drink, drink!’ and more actual enjoyment? I certainly hope so, for as fun as getting completely plastered can be, you make the long-lasting friends when you’re sober. Of course, it could just be that St Andrews is bracing itself for Raisin Weekend. But that’s fine: After a few weeks of lectures, tutorials and excessive reading, I’m going to need a drink – or three!

Photo courtesy of Hermione Bird.