We hope you’re excited to start your Chester chapter. A new city, new course, new people, new weekly schedule, and probably no idea where any building is… don’t worry, everyone is in the same boat as you. We’re here to help things go smoothly for you.
So, what actually is Freshers?
It’s your chance to explore Chester, meet people, try things you wouldn’t normally try and start figuring out what you want your university experience to look like. Plus, there are lots and lots of events.
The important thing is though; you don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to go to every Freshers event, or join ten clubs and societies, and you definitely don’t have to make your best friends on day one.
Freshers, just like CSU, is there for you as much as you want it to be.
So just go to an event, say hello to the person sitting next to you, visit a society stall, and pop into the SU – you never know where it might lead.
🎟️ Choose what Freshers events you’ll go to
Find your people 🫶
One of the best things about university is meeting loads of new people and making friends. That’s where our societies come in.
We have 75+ societies covering everything from hobbies and interests to academic and community groups. There are societies for arts, culture, music, gaming, socialising, crafts, performance and plenty more – and if you can’t find one you like, you can even start your own.
You don’t need to know anyone before joining a society – that’s basically the point.
Get involved with CSU
We’re not just about events and societies. We’re also here to help make sure your voice is heard and your university experience is as good as it can be.
You can get involved in loads of different ways, and you don’t need to remember all of them right now, just know that these avenues are available for you:
🗣️ Have your say
Something at university isn’t working, or got an idea for something you’d like to change?
You can submit a “Change It” or get involved in student representation through CSU.
You can become a Student Voice Representative and help represent students on your course. And when our elections come around, you’ll get the chance to vote for the students who represent you and decide what CSU focuses on as a whole.
💼 Build your CV
University isn’t just about getting a degree – it’s also a chance to develop skills and experiences that you’ll take with you afterwards.
You can get involved in student leadership, apply for paid student roles, become a Student Voice Partner, get involved in Union Assembly or take part in our CSU Workshop Series.
And if things don’t go to plan…
CSU has an Advice team where you can get independent advice and support, including help with things like academic issues and housing.
You can also come and talk to us in person at our Exton Park office.
One last thing…
You don’t need to arrive at university knowing exactly who you’re going to be.
Maybe you’ll discover a new hobby. Maybe you’ll join a society you never expected to join. Maybe you’ll end up running for an elected position. Maybe you’ll find your favourite place in Chester. Maybe you’ll make friends for life.
Or maybe you’ll spend half of freshers week in your room watching Netflix. Don’t put pressure on yourself.
Whatever happens, we’re here for you.
Welcome to Chester. We can’t wait to meet you.
CSU x
Useful links
💬 Advice
