Find Your Tribe: Exploring Freshers Fairs for new Students

Freshers Week

Note: Some links below may point to uni or student union homepages while some Freshers dates are still to be confirmed. We'll update them with specific dates as soon as we know!

As a new student in the UK, Freshers Week is a crucial time for settling in, making friends, and getting involved on campus. And at the heart of Freshers Week is the Freshers Fair - events designed to introduce new students to the many clubs, societies, and services available at their university.

In this guide, we'll take a closer look at what you can expect at UK universities, including the role of student unions, the discounts and freebies on offer, and some specific examples from cities like Cardiff, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, and London.

Students Union

Student unions play a critical role in organising freshers events (you may see Freshers Week or Welcome Week depending on your uni!), as well as providing ongoing support and services for students throughout the year. Here are just a few of the things you might find at your student union during Welcome Week:

• Clubs and societies covering a huge range of interests and activities

• Advice and support services, including mental health support, academic advice, and more

• Bars and restaurants, often at discounted prices for students

• Spaces for study and relaxation

To find out more about freshers week, social events and student unions at some of the UK's most popular universities, check out the following links:

• Cardiff University Students' Union

• University of Birmingham Guild of Students

• Edinburgh University Students' Association

• University of Bristol Students' Union

• University of London Students' Union (Lots of Students Unions inside!)

• University of Manchester Students' Union

• Newcastle University Students' Union

• University of Glasgow Students' Representative Council

Freshers Fairs & Societies

These Fairs are a fantastic opportunity to explore all the different clubs, societies, and services available to you on campus. You can expect to find:

• Stalls and stands from various societies and clubs, where you can sign up, find out more information and learn about taster sessions

• Freebies and discounts from local businesses and organisations

• Representatives from the students union, who can answer any questions you might have

• Opportunities to meet other new students and make friends

• Welcome Talks from key figures at your uni

Attending one is a great way to start your university experience and get involved in the community. Here are some of the discounts and freebies you might find:

• Discounted gym memberships

• Free pizza or other food samples

• Free stationery and other supplies

• Vouchers bars, restaurants and local food shops

Cardiff

If you're a student at Cardiff University, the fair is one of the highlights of Freshers Week. You can expect to find all sorts of clubs and societies, including sports teams, hobby groups, and cultural societies. Here are some links to help you prepare for the Cardiff Freshers Fair:

• Cardiff University Freshers Week

• Cardiff University Students' Union Societies

Birmingham

The Freshers Fair at the University of Birmingham is another great opportunity to get involved on campus and make new friends. You can find everything from sports clubs to volunteering opportunities at the Fair. Here are some links to help you plan your visit to the Birmingham Freshers Fair:

• University of Birmingham Freshers Week

• University of Birmingham Guild of Students Societies

Edinburgh

At the Edinburgh University Freshers Fair, you'll find a wide range of clubs and societies, as well as support services and representatives from the students union. You'll also have the chance to explore the city and get to know your fellow students. Here are some links to help you prepare for the Edinburgh Freshers Fair:

• Edinburgh University Freshers Week

• Edinburgh University Students' Association Societies

Bristol

The Bristol Freshers Fair is a great place to learn more about the different clubs and societies available at the University of Bristol. You'll also find plenty of discounts and freebies, as well as support and advice services. Here are some links to help you plan your visit to the Bristol Freshers Fair:

• University of Bristol Freshers Week

• University of Bristol Students' Union Societies

London

The London Freshers Fair is one of the largest and most exciting events of Freshers Week in the UK. With representatives from universities across the city, as well as local businesses and organisations, there's plenty to explore and discover. Here are some links to help you prepare for the London Freshers Fair:

• University of London Freshers Fair

• University of London Students' Union Societies

Manchester

Manchester is home to one of the largest and most diverse student populations in the UK, and the Freshers Fair at the University of Manchester reflects that diversity. Here are some links to help you prepare for the Manchester Freshers Fair:

• University of Manchester Freshers Week

• University of Manchester Students' Union Societies

Newcastle

Newcastle University is known for its vibrant student life and welcoming community, and the Freshers Fair is a great way to get involved. Here are some links to help you prepare for the Newcastle Freshers Fair:

• Newcastle University Freshers Week

• Newcastle University Students' Union Societies

Glasgow

Glasgow is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, and the Freshers Fair at the University of Glasgow is always a highlight of Freshers Week. Here are some links to help you prepare for the Glasgow Freshers Fair:

• University of Glasgow Freshers Week

• University of Glasgow Students' Representative Council Societies

Conclusion

Attending a Freshers Fair is a great way to start your university experience and get involved in the community. Whether you're interested in sports, music, volunteering, or simply making new friends, there's something for everyone at a Freshers Fair. With this guide and the links provided, you'll be well prepared to make the most of Freshers Week and the events in your city. Good luck, have fun, and - because Freshers Flu isn't fun - don't overdo it!