Tips for the Edinburgh Fresher

Moving to a new city can always be a little daunting, but when you’re moving for university it’s important to enjoy yourself and get the most out of the experience. To help you do this, we have made a list of our top tips as to how to get the most out of being an Edinburgh fresher. Enjoy!

Moving in/ meeting new people

Fresher’s Week is a great opportunity to meet new people. Most people at Fresher’s Week want to network so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! Some of the best people you’ll meet will be at university and this could be the making of some great friendship stories, so make them good ones. Also, when Fresher’s Week ends, don’t think that you need to stop introducing yourself to people. One of the best parts about being at university is getting to meet so many wonderful people who you might otherwise not have met.

Try and spend some time getting to know your flatmates. These are the people that you will be spending a lot of your time with, and they will be a large part of your university experience. You don’t need to all be best friends, but having that comradery will help you to settle into this new chapter a lot easier, and you’ll probably make some great memories too!

Getting to know the uni

There are a lot of great ways to get to know your university, no matter which one in the city you are attending. Societies are great for new students whilst also allowing you to do something you enjoy or maybe haven’t tried before. Joining a society looks great on your CV- it displays a side to you other than your academic achievements and shows your interests. So, be sure to check out the society stalls at your Fresher’s Week.

Going out and getting to know Edinburgh

In terms of where to go in Edinburgh, there really is a massive selection to choose from for students. For cheap and cheerful, the Hive is a must- with deals on most nights (especially Sundays to Wednesdays) this club promises a great night on a budget. An area with a lot of cheap bars is Cowgate and with a couple of nightclubs too, you can spend a great night here at a low-cost. But when your SAAS comes in be sure to get down to George Street for some lovely bars and restaurants.

Also make sure to check out the university noticeboards- these are usually kept up to date with events and nights out that are coming up. Again, societies usually hold their own nights so being a member gives you an extra advantage. Fresher’s Week events are always a great way to get to know the city whilst meeting lots of new people too.

Money and budgeting

Living on a student budget is tough at times, but there are ways to make your budget stretch a little further and still getting the best out of student life.

Student discount is by far one of the best things you will experience. Ever. As well as a great range of clothes stores (including Topshop and New Look), a number of restaurants and clubs offer student discount. Be sure to check before you go out where offers reductions and take advantage of these. Never under-value the power of the student card!

Staying safe

Moving to a new city is exciting, but it’s important to make sure you’re safe as well. Simple things like having the number of a reputable taxi company on your phone can make all the difference when you’re a little under the influence and in an area unfamiliar to you. Always be sure to stick with a group of people that you know when you’re out too.

If you’re meeting someone for the first time or going out on a date, make sure you tell someone who you’re meeting, where you’re going and what time you’ll be home.

Your university will also have a counselling service available and if you are ever feeling lonely or depressed then you can contact them and know that they are there to support you and not judge you. A lot of people will be feeling the same way- so don’t stress.

Cullen Property would like to welcome all new students to Edinburgh and we hope that you enjoy getting to know this beautiful and exciting city. Tell us about your university experience by tweeting us at @cullentenants and liking us on Facebook too.