It’s September, the summer has passed, and thousands of students are about to descend on Scotland’s biggest city to return to university and college.
For the ‘fresh meat’ it can be quite a daunting prospect. Moving away from home for the first time, being forced to make friends – and enemies – with people you’ve never met before, all at the same time as ‘studying’ in a new environment.
I was in that position this time last year, I know a million questions are flying through your minds, and hopefully this will set a few things straight and get you ready for starting your new life here in Glasgow in the next couple of weeks.
Do be brave
I was once told: “You have ten seconds to do it, and if you don’t do in that time, you’ve f*cked it.” Basically, don’t overthink anything. If you want to talk to someone, do it. Those ten seconds could make you a friend for life (or not, but chances are, they’re keen to chat too).
Don’t be cocky
There’s a balance between being brave and being cocky. Everyone is new. Even if you were a proper noti lad at home, if you’re too cocky straight away here, then you won’t be, you’ll put people off. Friendly chat is much better – to begin with, at least.
Do be adventurous
Moving to a new city doesn’t have to be scary. It’s a chance to try things you didn’t do at home. And I’m not talking about going off the rails, I’m talking about having a go at snow sports, starting a band, or joining the gaming club. Nobody will judge you when they don’t know you!
Don’t be THAT flatmate
Most of you will be moving in to halls with a group of people you don’t know. Yes, that scared me too, but take it easy. Anything that’s precious to you, lock away in a drawer, but don’t be the person who locks all of their food, pots, pans and cutlery in their room too. That makes you look like a proper d*ck. Also, do your dishes once in a while, eh?
Do have a good time
There’s no parents, no curfew and no rules – except what security says, *rolls eyes* (Caley Courters, say hi to Malcolm from me). This is your time to let loose and enjoy yourself. Make friends, have a laugh and I swear, if I don’t hear Wonderwall being screamed at some point throughout Fresher’s then I will be very disappointed.
Don’t take it too far
No, I’m not yer Da, but do be careful. Have a good time but stay safe. I’m not going to beat about the bush, there is some dodgy stuff out there. Watch your drinks, and don’t do anything you don’t feel comfortable with. If you do get lucky, wrap it up, take precautions and keep the clinic number close by (they’re lovely people, I promise).
The list could go on and on, but I’m not going to bore you. You’re coming to learn about it all for yourselves and that’s part of the fun.
So HWFG! Say hi if you see me around and I’ll catch you all on the dancefloor at Bamboo!
Happy Freshers!
Fraser x
