As a fresher at UEA you might experience many things for the first time including:

LCR - During Fresher s’ week it will be unlikely that you won’t venture to the LCR. T he LCR is the Union’s main venue for live music and social events. Located in the centre of campus, the LCR is the pinnacle of night-life at UEA. It is equipped with a large bar, stage, dance-floor and a separate music area (The Hive). The venue holds up to 1550 for gigs and 2000 for club nights allowing a close and intimate experience with your favourite bands and newly befriended flatmates. If, after a while, you’re looking to venture further afield then there are plenty of other places to go off-campus, such as The Waterfront which is also run by the Union.

Lectures - Your first lecture may be a shock to the system. It will introduce you to the academic environment where work is the name of the game (or at least part of it). Introductory lectures will start in your first week so you won’t be thrown in at the deep end. You will be overloaded with information during these lectures but don’t worry about remembering the whole structure and content of the course. Instead make sure you take down notes and have an organised file of all your modules so it will be easier to check back later. It won’t be long until you have your first course lecture or seminar so be prepared for these by reading up on any material that has been provided. In your first lectures try and get chatting to the people around you as it’s a good idea to make some friends on your course.

Homesickness - You may love your new independence and freedom but that doesn’t mean you can’t feel homesick from time to time. It can be the hardest thing to overcome in your first weeks but don’t feel like you are on your own. Everyone will be having the same fears and apprehensions so they are not exclusive to you. Make sure you call home regularly.

Flu - It’s not the plague but it can feel like it sometimes. Flu in the autumn months is rife and surrounded constantly by a large group of people, students are often the first to get a dose of that inevitable ‘Fresher s’ Flu’. Break out those boxes of tissues and snuggle up with your duvet on a night in. The Pharmacy next to the Medical Centre sells all kinds of medicine to knock your cold on its head.

Cooking - You might be used to having meals cooked for you on a daily basis. However, at Uni you will have to get used to your own cooking - however non - existent those skills might be! Don’t hesitate to try a few different recipes before you get here, as well as having a browse through some student recipe books which are designed for simple and satisfying cooking. The best advice is to start simple and work your way up, and before you know you will be a budding Gordon Ramsay! ”

Events: “During Freshers’ Week there are lots of events, both during the day and in the evening. Some are free, but some do require tickets. Once you have registered with the university, you will be given a special link to purchase Freshers’ Week events tickets online – make sure you buy them in advance because they will sell out! See the Freshers’ Week timetable for more information on events.”