1The first day of university can be both exciting and nerve-racking. If you’re nervous, don’t worry; most other people will be too! You are going to a new place with people you haven’t met before, and it is all new territory.
2Most first days will follow the same kind of structure, so to give you a kind of heads up on what you will be doing, read on…
3Firstly, to get there in the first place, make sure you have printed off a copy of where your campus is located, and how to get to your college accommodation. When you park up, there will probably be some friendly students hanging around in similar colored t-shirts; these will be representatives from your college, who are there to sign you in, and give you your room keys. You’ll have to give your name and sign a few forms, and then someone will show you to your new digs. At this point, don’t try and lug all your stuff to your room. Wait until you know where it is, and then come back for it later.
4After showing you to your room, the guide will leave you to it so start bringing all your gear up to your room. Unless you fancy a bit of help from the folks, they might suggest coming back after you’ve unpacked. Although if you aren't the unpacking sort, your mums offer might be taken up. At this point, gradually other people will be arriving too, so don't worry about having to rush out to meet people just yet.
5As you are unpacking, leave your door open! It is a great way for other new people on your floor to say hello as they are passing, or to wander in and offer you a cuppa if they’ve already unpacked.
6Stick a sign on your door with your name and a tempting slogan such as “Come in and say hi, I have chocolate!” Doing this will make you friendly and approachable, and unless you are fibbing about the chocolate, you will have some happy housemates in your dorm room later on.
7Once you have unpacked and you have said your goodbyes (don't worry, it will be hard for some...just remember you will see them soon) have a wander around your floor and say hello to a few other new people, or head to the communal area (often the kitchen, a basement, a common room) if a few people have begun to gather there.
8This is when you can begin to get to know your new housemates, and lots of introductions and chatting will ensue!