Settle into university life

　　The UK has a well-respected higher educationsystem and some of the top un iversities andresearch institutions in the world. But to those whoare new to it all, it can be overwhelming andsometimes confusing.

　　October is usually the busiest month in the academic calendar. Universities have somethingcalled Freshers' Week for their newcomers. It's a great oppor tunity to make new friends, joinlots of clubs and settle into university life.

　　However, having just left the comfort of home and all your friends behind, th e prospect ofmeeting lots of strangers in big halls can be nerve-wracking. Wh ere do you start? Who shouldyou make friends with? Which clubs should you j oin?Luckily, there will be thousands of others inthe same boat as you worryin g about starting their university social life on the right foot. Sojust take it all in slowly. Don't rush into anything that you'll regret for the next three years. Hereare some top tips from past students on how to survive Freshers' Week: Blend in. Make sureyou are aware of British social etiquette. Have a few win e glasses and snacks handy for yourhousemates and friends.Be hospitable. Sometimes cups of tea or even slices of toast can giveyou a head start in mak ing friends.Be sociable. The more active you are, the more likely you'll beto m eet new people than if you're someone who never leaves their room.Bring a d oorstop.Keep your door open when you're in and that sends positive message s to your neighbours thatyou're friendly.So with a bit of clever planning and motivation, Freshers' Week can give you agreat start to your university life an d soon you'll be passing on your wisdom to next year's newrecruits.