6 ways to prepare for your first week at University in Manchester

Get Organized

Before you even step foot on campus, we can’t stress enough how important it is to get organized. Create a checklist of essential items like bedding, stationery, and toiletries (check out our essential packing list for tips!). Plan your travel arrangements and ensure you have all your documents, such as your acceptance letter and identification. Trust us, being organized will give you a sense of control and make the transition much smoother.

Familiarize Yourself with the Campus

Take some time to explore the campus virtually or physically if possible. Find the key facilities you’ll be using like the library, classrooms, and student services so you can get to them when you need them the most. Understanding the layout of the campus will help you navigate it with confidence during your first week, (and don’t worry if you get lost, everyone does at first!)

Stock Up on Supplies

Visit the university store or local shops to purchase the necessary supplies like notebooks and pens, and consider investing in a planner or digital calendar to keep track of important dates, assignments, and deadlines. Having the right tools will help you massively in the long run.

Plan Your Schedule

Once you have access to your class schedule, take the time to plan out your week. Note each class's timings, extracurricular activities, or part-time job commitments, and make sure to allocate plenty of time for studying, socializing, and self-care. Making sure you have plenty of downtime during the week is the perfect way to reduce stress and keep you running for your busy schedule.

All things freshers

Renowned as one of the most exciting, memorable weeks of your life, freshers’ week is the perfect way to meet new people and establish friendships from all walks of life, so make sure you don’t miss it!

Explore Manchester nightlife

With one of the UK's biggest student populations combined with the best party scene in the country, Manchester nightlife offers a playground of bars and clubs for you to enjoy. Whether you're into indie, house, dubstep, hip hop, or even just a fun bar with cheap drinks, you'll find your perfect night out right here.

Freshers fair

Freshers Fair is the staple of everyone’s first week at uni and is also the place where you can find hundreds of vendors giving away more freebies than you can carry – perfect for stocking up on pens, tote bags, sticky notes, and notepads.

As well as the freebies, you’ll also have the chance to meet the student societies and clubs, which you never know, might be the gateway to you making a whole new friendship group straight out the gate.

Connect with Roommates

If you're living in a halls or shared accommodation, then reaching out to your roommates before moving in is the best way to introduce yourself and plan your fresher's experience together!

Lastly, remember that the first week of university is a time of exploration and self-discovery – embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and be open to all the new experiences you’ll face.

Attend orientation events, join clubs and societies, and engage in conversations with fellow students. Trust us, the connections you make during this period can last a lifetime.

We hope you all have a great first week at university, make new friends, and enjoy every moment of it. Good luck!