Freshers’ Week has been an exciting initiation for new university students in Aberdeen and across the country, marking their transition into higher education with social events, parties, and opportunities to form early friendships. However, the Freshers’ Week of decades past— pub crawls, foam parties, and nights out—has evolved into something much more diverse and inclusive these days. Across the UK, universities are now offering a wider range of activities that prioritise student wellbeing, financial mindfulness, and the formation of meaningful connections.
From Parties to Personal Growth: A Shift in Freshers’ Culture
In recent years, the approach to Freshers’ Week has seen a significant transformation, reflecting broader societal changes. Today’s students are increasingly aware of mental health, well-being, and the importance of creating a sustainable lifestyle. While traditional activities such as pub nights still exist, they now share the stage with sober, hobby-focused events that aim to cater to a wide range of interests.
For example, students at Aberdeen University can enjoy events like yoga classes, ultimate frisbee games, and picnics—activities designed to promote both physical health and social bonding. According to Christina Schmid, president of Aberdeen University Students’ Association, “students really want more diverse activities, especially after Covid.” This shift in priorities reflects a desire for more meaningful connections and experiences beyond simply going out and partying.
Wellbeing at the Forefront
This change in Freshers’ Week programming is also heavily influenced by the growing awareness of mental health issues among students. With more individuals acknowledging the impact of stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, universities are taking proactive steps to ensure their students feel supported right from the start.
Universities like Glasgow and Edinburgh are introducing events that focus on mental wellness, such as anxiety management workshops and relaxing activities like houseplant sales and charity shop crawls. By offering spaces where students can de-stress and connect in low-pressure environments, these institutions are encouraging healthier ways of socializing that don’t revolve around alcohol consumption.
Additionally, the rise of sober events is not only a response to mental health concerns but also reflects a growing awareness of safety issues, particularly in environments where excessive drinking occurs. Reports of rising instances of drink spiking and gender-based violence have led to increased caution among students. “There’s an awareness of gender-based violence,” Schmid explains. “That has led to a bit of resentment [toward alcohol-heavy environments], as well as people looking out for each other.”
The Impact of the Cost-of-Living Crisis
Another factor contributing to this shift is the current economic landscape. The rising cost of living in the UK has had a significant impact on student life, as many find it increasingly difficult to afford the high cost of nights out and other expensive activities. Instead, they are turning to more budget-friendly social events, many of which are organised by student associations.
At Aberdeen University, for instance, Union Brew—a coffee shop run by the student union—has become more profitable than it was as a student bar in previous years. This change mirrors the decreasing demand for alcohol and the rising preference for socializing in more relaxed, low-cost settings.
Similarly, at Abertay University, Bar One was forced to close its doors in 2019 after sales plummeted by two-thirds in just five years. These trends highlight the growing appeal of sober, affordable alternatives to traditional Freshers’ Week events.
Embracing Diversity and International Communities
The shift in Freshers’ Week programming also reflects changes in the demographics of student populations. Universities across the UK have seen a rise in the number of international students, and this diverse student body has led to a demand for activities that cater to a broader range of cultural interests and experiences.
For many international students, traditional British nights out might not hold the same appeal as they do for domestic students. Instead, these students are looking for opportunities to share their own cultures and explore the hobbies and interests of their peers. Universities have responded by offering a range of inclusive events, such as virtual murder mysteries, movie screenings, and ‘coffee and cake’ meetups for mature students, which appeal to a wide variety of preferences and backgrounds.
Building Skills Through Hobbies and Interests
While the party culture of Freshers’ Week was once seen as a rite of passage, today’s students are increasingly interested in activities that offer more than just a good time. Many of the hobby-focused events now on offer—whether it’s a video game night, a houseplant sale, or an ultimate frisbee game—help students develop valuable skills that they can use throughout their academic and professional careers.
By participating in these events, students are not only making friends and enjoying their university experience, but they are also gaining skills that can enhance their employability and personal development.
A Fresh Take on Freshers’ Week
As Freshers’ Week continues to evolve, it is clear that students are embracing this change, choosing activities that resonate with their values and needs, rather than simply following tradition. Whether it’s a coffee and cake meetup, a yoga class, or an ultimate frisbee game, the Freshers’ Week of today is all about offering something for everyone. And in doing so, it ensures that every student can start their university journey in a way that feels right for them.
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