You’ve probably spent your summer packing and planning in anticipation, with the thought of how you’ll need to make new friends lurking in the back of your mind. But the expectation to make new friendships doesn’t mean you have to tirelessly put yourself out there more than you’d like. While a week of back-to-back events can seem exciting to some, for those more introverted like myself, this is slightly less than ideal. 

Luckily, what you get up to during your first week at university is entirely up to you. Here’s are some tips I’ve learnt along the way that will help make sure your memories of Welcome Week stay true to you.

You chose King’s because you thought it would make a good match for you. Welcome Week is your first opportunity at a true inside look, to discover the opportunities and experiences offered to you. Prioritise going to events that genuinely interest you, whether that be events hosted by your department, society taster sessions or discovering volunteering opportunities.

However, going along spontaneously with someone else’s plans can make for cherished memories, so don’t forget to leave a few spare afternoons and evenings. Spontaneity does go hand-in-hand with good judgement – don't forget you can always say no to things that are too far out of your comfort zone.

An expectation is often built up that Fresher’s is simply made up of nights clubbing and pub-ing, but there's so much more available to you. While some people look forward to forging friendships in between chaos, smaller events are a great way to meet people in a more intimate setting and usually only last 1-2 hours, making them less of a commitment.

We’ve got a few relaxed events happening in the afternoons and evenings throughout Welcome Week for you to check out:

These relaxed events don’t end during Welcome Week – there are plenty more happening throughout September and October. Check out our events page to discover all our small socials.

Setting aside time completely for your own enjoyment in between socialising can help you avoid feeling burnt out. Carve out time for an evening in or a whole day spent exploring the city solo. A favourite Welcome Week memory of mine was an evening spent making my own Borough Market-inspired strawberries and chocolate in between busy days of introductory lectures.

Many students will be starting from zero in a new city, making the need to build their own community more apparent. For some their goal may be getting to know every single person they encounter, while for others it can mean finding a few close friends.

To make this seem less daunting, treat making friends as simply meeting people one conversation at a time, without any expectations. The more people you speak to, the closer you’ll get to finding people you feel comfortable around.

One thing I enjoyed was getting coffee or lunch with 1-2 course mates I’d met. Participating in Welcome Week goes beyond large, organised group functions, those small hangouts in between can be equally special!

Calling a friend or a family member from home can feel comforting after a day spent in a new environment. Often we emphasise a specific version of ourselves when meeting new people, so chatting with someone that knows you fully can help re-energise you after a long day.

Your first week at university can come with uncomfortable emotions, but you don’t have to process them alone. Reach out to King’s Counselling and Mental Health Support Service to speak to a Counsellor or Mental Health advisor who will discuss your concerns in a friendly and supportive space.