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Posted Dec. 26, 2012

8 Things You Should Know About Postgraduate Fresher's Week

Fun, frivolity, and frolics: three words that pretty much sum up postgraduate fresher's week.

Not sure what to expect ? Check out our list of 8 things every postgraduate should know about before embarking on fresher's week...

First Impressions are Everything Which is why you need to put your best foot forward when starting your postgraduate study. Yes you're allowed to have fun, but don't lose all sense of self. The last thing you want to do is live out the rest of your university life in shame because you 'accidentally' ran naked down the streets on your second day.

You'll Probably Feel Homesick And that's ok! Missing home, parents, siblings and family members is completely normal. Your roommates might not be the first to admit it, but they are probably experiencing the exact same emotions. Aim for balance. Speak to family members every few days and also try to discuss home life with your new friends.

Be Prepared to Queue Embracing the endless queuing is the best way to stay sane during fresher's week. Standing in line all day to hand someone a piece of paper just to get your photo snapped sucks. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your headphones along for the ride.

Budget It has been known for some people to max out their overdrafts in the first week! You don't want to be one of those people. Budgeting may be a bore, but it's a lot better than having to scrape by doing a job you hate because you were overly frivolous with your cash. Forward planning is the key.

Sign Up with a Society University is a hub of social clubs and organizations that are unlike any you will ever have the chance to indulge in again. Make good use of these invaluable resources whilst they are available to you. Plus they are a great way to meet like-minded people and learn new skills.

Protect Your Stuff Fresher's week is a thief's paradise. Thousands of students walking around in a daze, completely unaware of what's going on around them. Lock your doors before leaving the house, and make sure you keep any valuables well out of sight. When out and about carry a closable bag and try not to stray too far from campus until you know your way around.

Pace Yourself For some lucky postgraduate students, fresher's week goes on for a fortnight! As much fun as it sounds, it can actually be mentally and physically draining. We are taking about anywhere up to 14 straight days of partying after all.

Have Fun Last but not least don't forget to have fun. Fresher's week happens but once in a lifetime (well twice for you postgraduates but you get the point) so make the most of it. Relax and take advantage of all the great freebies, activities and resources that are on offer.

Most terms start in December, but these days it is becoming an increasing trend for postgraduate programs to kick off in  January . In fact, choosing to start in January  could give you an edge .

Have you got any advice you would like to impart with prospective postgraduate students?

Share with us in the comment below.
 

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