My experience at Halifax College Freshers’ week

3 December 2021 by Zuzanna
3 minute read

Freshers’ week at Halifax College

Freshers’ week at Halifax College was a wild experience! There was so much to do, both in the day and night. It was a huge part of the university experience.

Daytime events

Some of the daytime events included dog petting, Bob Ross painting night, trampolining, bowling and so much more! I went to the dog petting event which was so fun. Me and my flatmates all went to JJ’s (one of Halifax’s common rooms) and spent time with some cute Labradors. After not having seen my own pets for a few days it was lovely. Plus it was a good way to calm down and relieve some of the stress of moving house.

I’m a big fan of painting, so I had to go to the Bob Ross painting. It was kind of scary at first as I was the only one out of my flat to go, but after I shook off the nerves and braved the outdoors I ended up having a great time. It was super fun and a great opportunity to meet up with new people with similar interests.

Zuzanna's painting of a mountain landscape, along with two others, at the Bob Ross painting event. There is a purple graphic on top with Bob Ross's face on it that says 'Bob Ross approved'. — Zuzanna having fun at the Bob Ross painting event

Night-time events

There were lots of night-time events too, but I didn’t initially think they’d be my vibe. I went to some of the on campus events such as the Court Party near St Lawrence Court (in Halifax College), and you know what, it was a lot better than I expected. I met new people from other courts, and I enjoyed the live music. However, I didn’t end up going to any of the club nights. I was planning on going to the Great Faxby night (a mashup of the Great Gatsby and Halifax). But I ended up chickening out of it. But that’s okay. Just know you will never be forced into doing something that you aren’t comfortable with. A lot of my friends did go to the other events though and really enjoyed them.

All the events I went to allowed me to meet new people, and have loads of fun. This helped me so much in settling in, feeling more comfortable at uni and living away from home.

Weekly activities

Halifax offers so many different activities on a weekly basis. Some of these include free breakfasts/lunches, screening movies, yoga and kickboxing sessions, or even club nights! It’s great to see such a wide range of activities being prepared for us, as it truly allows you to enjoy the fun side of university (and it’s a great distraction from your studies). I love how the team thinks of a wide range of people, making sure its inclusive and accessible for all, considering the majority of events are free!

I haven’t been to every single one of these things personally, I like a bit of chill night sometimes. But I’ve met so many cool people at the events I have gone to and I’m never going to say no to free food.

All the different activities get advertised through the weekly emails sent out, Hafliax College social media or you can take a peak at the chalkboard outside of reception.

Image shows the chalkboard outside of Halifax Reception showing the events on that week. These include pumpkin collection, a pumpkin competition, yoga, a cupcake decorating class, pumpkin crafting, Great British Bake Off screening, tarot card reading, Kung Fu and kickboxing and a drag night. — The chalkboard of events outside of Halifax College reception

Overall

When I first arrived at university I was scared of not fitting in, of not being included. But my time spent in Halifax has been great, and it’s made me feel like I’m a part of a huge family. Every person I have met has been super friendly and hasn’t judged me for anything.

For real, it’s these little things that helped me feel like I’m a part of the college, and a part of a wider university community. There never is a dull moment in Halifax.

Hi, I’m Zuzanna 🙂 I’m a first year Biomedical Sciences (with an integrated Masters) student, in Halifax College. I am in love with York’s City Centre, and you can catch me reading in my spare time!