You maybe a tad scared when arriving on the first day, but there’s really no need to be - everything you need to do is pretty simple.
What you need to know...
- There are plenty of car parks on campus, but make sure you know which is closest to your accommodation, to minimize the distance you have to carry your stuff. Check out the Campus Map on the Campus Tour page to see the colleges and car parks.
- You’ll be directed from the college car park to where you can pick up your room keys, Uni card and other useful information. You’ll probably need to give in a passport photo (make sure you carry a stash of these ready).
- When you have your keys, go and find your room before beginning the process of shifting all your stuff from the car. Most colleges will have a host of friendly helpers to direct you to where you can find your room. It's a good idea to have everything packed in boxes or bags to make it easy to carry. If you’re early enough, try and get a trolley from the porters lodge (£10 deposit and a Uni card required), but there aren’t many available.
- Whilst you may not want them to leave, don’t let your parents hang around too long, as you need to be getting to know your housemates and unpack.
- Whilst you unpack, leave your door open and don’t be afraid to go find your housemates and introduce yourself.
- Make sure you claim cupboard/fridge space in the kitchen soon after arriving, but only as much as is fair, as you want to keep harmony in the house on the first day. It’d be a good idea to bring up basic supplies of food to last you the first few days, as shopping won’t be one of your top priorities while you’re settling in.
- At some point on your first day, your college parents/STYCs (second and third year contacts) will drop by to introduce themselves and check you’re getting on ok. They will be looking after your house/flat during the first week and taking you to the freshers week events. If you don't know your way around campus very well, these guys will be able to help you. They are there to answer any questions you may have.
- The first evening you will have a college welcome event (probably with free food) which your mum and dad/STYCs will take you to. This is a good opportunity to get to know your housemates and other people in your college in a relaxed atmosphere.
In summary...
- Know where you're going - if you know which college you're going to, check this map for car parking.
- Collect your keys and access cards (you'll need to sign for them)
- Bring passport photos - you'll need them for your University Card and various other forms
- Move your stuff into your digs
- Meet your housemates
- Meet your STYCS/Mums/Dads
- Go to your college introductory talk
Don't forget that the guys with the "Fresh" T-shirts are dotted all around campus, ready to help and to offer advice if you lose your way. If you can't find us, we will always be on Vanbrugh Bowl 24/7, which you can look up on the Campus Map here, so you will always have a point of contact.
YUSU also have a lot of good information on arriving in York here.