What to expect from your first week at Falmouth

This article was written by Fashion Design BA(Hons) student Lillian.

If you have received an offer from Falmouth, then you're probably getting to that point where you're preparing to start uni and embark on this new phase of life.

A big part of starting uni is Freshers' Week. That first week of uni can be very overwhelming, especially when you don't know what to expect. In this blog, I am going to outline what to expect during the first week by going through my own Freshers' Week experiences.

Welcome Weekend

Your first day on campus will be during Welcome Weekend. Welcome Weekend is when you will move into your flat (with the exception of international students, who will most likely have already arrived) and finally get to meet all of your flatmates.

Settling in

My first day was mostly spent unpacking. This was quite an undertaking for me, because of the unnecessary amount of clothes I brought with me - I'm a fashion student, I can't help it :) - but it was fun getting to put all of my belongings into their new home. This is your chance to settle into your room and really make it your own.

Shopping for groceries

Another important aspect of the weekend is to do your first grocery shop. Most people go to Asda, which is a 5-minute drive from campus, or Lidl, which is a 7-minute drive. My parents took me to Asda and we stocked up on all of the cooking essentials I would need, including seasonings/spices, coffee, tea, a couple of freezer bits and some fresh food for the week.

Meeting your flatmates

During the first weekend, you will also have the opportunity to make introductions to your flatmates. After moving in and saying goodbye to my parents, I spent the next couple of days getting to know my flatmates and getting to know the Penryn Campus. I went on several walks around campus throughout the first week, sometimes alone and sometimes with a friend. The campus is beautiful and I found going for walks to be a good way to calm myself down whenever I was feeling overwhelmed or anxious, while also getting to know my new surroundings.

Freshers' events

When people think of Freshers' Week, most people imagine crazy parties, drinking, going out and clubbing, but I think the most important parts of Freshers' Week is meeting people and getting used to to a new place. That being said, there are many fun things to do during the week. Me and my flatmates didn't go to any clubs/bars down in town, opting instead to go to the bar on campus called The Stannary. However, if you are someone who prefers a more dance or club vibe, I know that a lot of people do go clubbing during the first week and have a great time. There were also loads of Freshers' events right on campus for my year group. Kona, a local bar and restaurant, put up a big marquee with a bar and a DJ with themed nights. This was so convenient and took out the hassle of having to get home after a night out.