As I enter my third and final year of uni (please don’t remind me though, I will cry), I find myself wishing I’d done a few things differently.
That’s why The Nottingham Tab has decided to make the ultimate guide so you can make the most of first year, and have no regrets by the end of it.
Let’s have a look at everything you need to know before starting at Nottingham Uni in September.
The group chats
I know you’ve been sent group chat after group chat link via Facebook and yes, there is a high chance you will never use it. However, there is the rare chance you’ll get lucky as I did meeting one of my best friends in one before uni started.
Join and take the chance! You’d rather never use them than miss out and regret it. But, if it’s not for you don’t worry there’s lots of opportunities to meet people when you move in and throughout your time at university.
You’ve definitely packed too much
The shopping trips to prepare for university are arguably one of the most exciting parts of the first year experience. However, buying too much and using barely half of it is a very common experience.
Save yourself the hassle and unpack half of your things. You’ll appreciate it when you move out at the end of first year and have some how accumulated even more stuff.
PSA: You don’t need a 10 piece dinner set, I promise.
Freshers’ Week wristbands
This next tip is especially helpful if you do join the group chats but still relevant if not.
There will be lots of people promoting Freshers’ Week wristbands that say they’ll get you into “exclusive” events which promoters claim are bound sell out.
Often this is just scaremongering and most, if not all, of your Freshers’ Week will be decided on the day with your flatmates or new friends
Sports night at Rock City
At Nottingham Uni, sports night is on Wednesday and is hosted at Rock City.
The event, called Crisis, is open to everyone whether you play a sport or not so be sure to check it out.
It does sell out very quickly however, especially in first and second term, so you should buy your tickets early.
But, if you miss out online, try Unisalad where people will be re-selling their tickets. You can also try and see if there are any left at the door too!
However, if you can’t get in, don’t sweat it as Rock City has a second venue opposite. To get in, you’ll be given a code and sent to the smaller but still fun club. You can then party away here and head back over to Crisis when there’s space.
Rock City Thursday is your perfect night out
If Crisis doesn’t end being a favourite, fear not.
Rock City has a club night on a Thursday which in my opinion is just as good if not better.
This is a Trent night but don’t let that deter you. It features two for one drinks and has three rooms.
The Main Room has its usual pop and chart classics, the Black Cherry Lounge with rap and afrobeats and the third room hosts a silent disco. I personally think this is one of the best nights in the Notts club calendar with great music for everyone and cheap drinks too.
Don’t forget to enrol at uni
Okay, kind of a boring, admin-y section, but either before or during Freshers’ Week you’ll receive an email asking you to enrol into the university. This can get lost with the excitement and rush of your first week at but get it done sooner rather than later as there is usually a deadline.
Hopper bus
via Google Maps
The hopper bus is a great way to get around if you have lectures on Jubilee campus from Uni Park or vice versa and can be a good way to save money.
The bus stop outside the Portland Building or any bus stop on campus will have the Hopper bus stop at it.
It’s frankly saved my legs more times than I care to admit.
Freshers’ Fair
If there’s one thing you really need to know before September, it’s Nottingham Uni’s Freshers’ Fair is the best part of the new academic year.
Make sure to check it out to discover societies, local businesses and get free stuff. The Domino’s vouchers and free pizza on campus also make the walking worth it!
Student discounts
Make the most out of the free and discounted things that you’ll get while a student. Sign up to Student Beans and UNiDays!
You should also get your student discount uploaded to your Boots Advantage Card. You can do this by visiting your local store. You’ll thank me later.
Uni is even more expensive than you think
I know you’ve been told to save up and the importance of budgeting but heed the advice! Work out any expected expenses and work out a budget from there based on your needs and circumstances.
There is nothing to be afraid of though, you’ll figure it out, and if you’re struggling the university has teams to help provide financial advice.
Follow The Nottingham Tab
The final thing you need to know before starting at Nottingham Uni is to keep an eye out for us. We’ll be around publishing helpful advice and more to help you out. University goes by so fast and we’re right here to guide you through!
We also cover hard-hitting news, scandals, and original scoops as well as our fun features and quizzes.
If you fancy getting involved too, please send us a DM on Instagram.
You can find The Nottingham Tab on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
