Freshers' checklist: first weeks after arriving at UCL

A few words of advice and reassurance for incoming UCL freshers, looking to settle in their new lives as university students.

Photo by Eirini Mavrantonaki

Chaotic, unorganized, stressed, but most of all excited are a few words that come to mind when thinking of a new beginning. The first weeks of adapting to life at UCL are not easy, and that is coming from a second-year undergraduate student. Trust me, I have been in your place… Transitions always come with some challenges and settling down takes time. Nevertheless, the cosy atmosphere, the multiple clubs and societies, the welfare community and, most of all, the magnificence of London can transform the little anxieties into excitement. Let’s not focus on how hard this year will be, but rather on how we can make the most of it. Moving into university accommodation is tricky business, but don’t worry, I am here to provide a Freshers’ checklist on the things that I recommend students do during their first weeks at UCL. 

Decorating your new place of accommodation is crucial to start feeling at home.

As I previously said this is a truly unique year, one where studying from our rooms has become necessary. As such, the time spent in those rooms will be maximized, making it essential to make them as cosy as possible. There is already a UCL checklist for new students coming to study, however, do not get preoccupied if you didn’t manage to bring all the things you need. You can find (literally) anything in this city.

As safety is of significant importance to UCL, they have put regulations in place to ensure that there are not any risks concerning new students. For instance, students must refrain from having fairy lights or candles in their rooms, as they could be fire hazards. You will experience fire hazards first-hand, going through all the fire drills scheduled for this year. Trust me, we've all been there! Making your room comfortable can start by bringing photos from home, or posters that bring you a sense of comfort. Giving your room “a touch of London” could also be helpful. I suggest looking at freecycle, which is one of the most budget-friendly furniture sites one could find.

Other things I advise is that you bring activities that could fill up your time or even become part of a bonding ritual with your flatmates. For example, packing board games, game consoles or even a cookbook to learn new recipes. This is also the perfect opportunity to pick up new skills such as learning how to meditate, watercolour or journaling about your first few weeks at university.

Next step is socializing (as much as we are permitted these days).

As I’m sure you have heard, interaction with other people is limited, so we should not take high risks as health comes above all. During these first weeks, try to meet people online through the various ways provided by UCL. Put yourself out there! Send a text to the person you found interesting from your class, you could always arrange a Zoom meeting with them, apply for the online yoga classes hosted by our Students’ Union. Check the What’s On Calendar - there are millions of options to explore every day, from live music workshops to the Comedy Club improv. Everyone is starting fresh; do not let your shyness keep you from meeting interesting people, even if online, from all around the world. Isn’t this the point of university after all? Apart from studying what you love, making long-lasting friendships and connections are among the biggest benefits.

After you check socializing off your list, the time has come to make this city your own!

It is time to explore London. After all “a bad day in London is still better than a good day anywhere else”. There are so many different places to see; even with the new restrictions reinforced, London is still just as exciting outdoors! From Hampstead Heath to Hyde Park, to Tottenham Court Road, to Oxford Street. One can never get bored of London, or explore it too much. There is always something new to see - the Frieze sculptures at Regent’s park or a bike ride along the Thames river from the Big Ben to Tower Bridge.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you should try and make the most out of the years about to come! Go outside and explore as much as possible, you can never go wrong. Freshers that are not in London at this time, don’t think that we have forgotten about you! Friends made from online events can always “carry you with them”. Video calling and showing you around London would be a great opportunity to explore the city and become familiarised with it before you come here.

It is undeniable that we are living in stressful times and we could all use a dose of prospect in our lives. Go and take this wonderful opportunity you just gave yourself by getting accepted to one of the best universities there is!