Freshers’ week is upon us, and for many people this is the first time that they’ll be living away from home. It’s also a period of meeting new people, finding your way around a new campus and city and beginning new classes. Basically it’s a big transition, and this can be really exhausting! So what are some ways to avoid a slump this week so that you can stay energised and ready to take on all that your new university has to offer? Here are a few simple tips to practice during freshers’ week and beyond that will keep you feeling good.

Get a full night’s sleep whenever you can. Obviously there are a lot of activities and parties to go to during freshers’ week. We’re not saying that you should be in bed by 10pm every night, but do try to get a full eight hours of sleep when you can. And take a quick afternoon nap during those other times (note this doesn’t mean sleeping for 4 hours every afternoon). A quick power nap can make sure you’re still bright eyed and bushy tailed to continue with your week. Don’t nap during classes though. Even though it’s the first week, you don’t want to start out your year by falling behind.

Eat some fruit. If you’re living away from home for the first time, you’ve probably not mastered grocery shopping, cooking or how to maintain a balanced diet. Don’t worry too much about this, you will learn. But do have some fruit every day. It doesn’t require any prep and the vitamins will keep you energised and scurvy free so you can get on with enjoying freshers’ week.

Likewise, drink some water. While coffee, beer and alcopops may perk you up for a round of classes or for a club night, they will leave you dehydrated, which will leave you feeling worse for wear, especially as freshers’ week goes on. Alternate your drinks with a glass of water. It will help you get up the next morning ready for another day.

Go for a walk. This is a great way to explore your new area while getting some fresh air and exercise. Go by yourself for a chance to get some peace and quiet, or with some others from your class or hall of residence. It can be a great way to get to know people a bit better, clear your head a bit (freshers’ week can be overwhelming and sometimes you just need to walk away from it for a bit) and feel re-energised.

So have fun but don’t push yourself too much. Remember that you’ve got a long time to see and do everything, so you don’t need to do it all now, but if you try these tips you may be able to do a bit more.