“What is Downing Freshers’ Week like?”

The idea of leaving home and coming to university for the first time can be daunting. The very idea of “Freshers’ Week” can also be unnerving: what if I don’t want to go clubbing every night? What if my fancy dress costumes aren’t good enough? A week is an awfully long time, isn’t it?

In truth, the week flies by – too fast in fact. It really doesn’t matter what you wear. And you choose what you want to do and what you are most comfortable doing. The only thing that matters is that you settle in as best you can. Remember: you are not alone. All of the Freshers are in the same boat. Everyone is new. Everyone is trying to get to know each other. Everyone has doubts, fears and insecurities – some hide them better than others. Downing Freshers’ Week really helps to put you at ease and settle in quickly. It is also really good fun!

Freshers’ Week was genuinely one of the most exciting and fun weeks I have spent during my time at Cambridge. The people were so nice. I really could not have asked for a more friendly welcome to Downing. That feeling goes for the vast majority too.

Freshers’ Week is well structured. There is always something on and there are things to suit all tastes. During the days we had barbecues, played games on the paddock [you can never be too old for giant inflatables!] and had tours of Cambridge. In the evenings we had themed parties in college, club nights in town, cinema trips and formal dinners. There really was something to suit everyone.

Downing students run Freshers’ week. Our Freshers’ Reps [F’reps] were great! In spite of being sleep deprived and overworked they always had smiles on their faces. They were always there for us – and still are. Some of my best friends now were F’reps. They represented accurately the fun and friendly character of the college.

We were given such a fantastic week and welcomed so warmly that I wanted to ensure that next year’s Freshers will be equally well treated. Along with Jenni Stuart, we will be Head Freshers’ Reps for October 2008. We hope to give you an exciting week and look forward to meeting you all soon! You will receive a Freshers’ pack before coming to Cambridge outlining what will be happening during the week and what you should bring.

Freshers’ Week can be great fun. You may settle in instantly, it may take a little longer. Either way, Downing Freshers’ Week really helps you feel comfortable and settle in as quickly as possible. But remember it is only a week. The more time you spend in Cambridge, the better it becomes. Freshers’ Week is just the start!

Created by Tom Owen September 2008 Page last updated September 2008 (bmg31)