Welcome Week at St Mary’s as an International Student
The day is finally here. Luggage all packed and ready, passport in one hand, the tickets in the other. Tearful goodbyes as you head inside, get checked in, and wait for the boarding. The UK, London, St. Mary’s.
The sweet air of London hits you right in the face as you land at Heathrow. Being greeted by people honing their blue jackets, meeting all these new students who are just as excited as you...
But what’s this? Something called ? Also known as Freshers Week?
It’s a schedule packed with lots and lots of activities! And it’s not one, but two weeks' worth of fun? Sign me up and let me get my !
More than 40 events to start off the year, the “Welcome to University” is definitely happening with a bang!
How to get started at Welcome Week
Hitting off the day you move in with an informal meal with the Chapel and a welcome party. Then, starting from day 2, you attend your , an opportunity to meet your classmates and your academic team.
If you are an active and sporty person, there are various fitness classes and SIMMSactive sports events going on.
And for students not living on campus, there is a warm welcome in the form of “Commuters Breakfast” and “Commuters Social”
Feeling homesick during Welcome Week
In the midst of all the excitement and settling in, you find yourself missing home and feeling a bit homesick. But you can send a postcard home, a little something hosted by our lovely Chaplaincy team.
You can then enjoy all the tasty treats offered during the afternoon tea hosted on the red London bus. It gives you the opportunity to get to know the various university teams and find out what the local snacks are.
For all the creative artsy minded people out there, there is a pottery painting session. Very soothing!
The nightlife during Welcome Week
In the evenings, each day is different from the one before.
On Monday, we have got Karaoke night. On Tuesday – Neon Rave. Wednesday is game night, and on Thursday get ready for some Pub Quiz! Saturday is Bingo Night and on Sunday you wind down with a Film night. Check out what you’ve got for your year!
Visiting the local area during Welcome Week
Freshers’ also got you covered with activities that allows you to explore the . We have got a boat from Richmond to Hampton Court, a walk around Richmond, and from my time as a fresher, I remember a Scavenger Hunt in Twickenham and other sorts of trip to London.
What else can you do during Welcome Week as an International Student?
Lookout for Freshers Fayre happening on Thursday in the Tennis Hall. Get to know what sorts of activities occur to make your time at St Mary’s thrive. From sports to international to religious to academic, there is a for everyone to be a part of!
Why should you go to Freshers’ Fayre?
Welcome Week has a bit of something for everyone, so don’t be afraid to step out, have fun, meet new people, make new friends, and make the most of it!
Two weeks' worth of fun? Sign me up and let me get my wristband!