Freshers fair at York St John
Hello, my name is Melody and I’m a second-year creative writing student here at York St John’s. In this blog, I want to share my experience at freshers fair and highlight some of the many societies and networks that the uni has to offer.
My Experience At The Freshers Fair
Compared to my first freshers’ fair, I found this one much more enjoyable due to knowing what to expect. I also went during the quiet hours, which left me able to visit all the stalls I wanted to. It was an absolutely wonderful day that left my bag stuffed full of freebies and with a strong idea of which societies I wanted to join. Despite it being a jam-packed day, I was able to speak with a few people about what Freshers meant to them.
Inkwell Society
One of the new societies this year Inkwell, is a space for writers to come and workshop their own work. They will be running every Monday in Fountains from six thirty.
When I asked them what freshers meant to them, they said
“It’s a fresh start and a way for people to come into their own”
Doctor Who Society
Are you a Whovian? Well then, the Doctor Who Society may be the right place for you. Taking place every Wednesday, it is a safe space for Whovians to debate and watch their favourite episodes, as well as much more. I may be a little biased, but as this was the first society I joined during my first year, I cannot recommend it enough. Everyone is super friendly and kind.
When I asked what freshers fair meant to them, they said to me that
“Fresher is a good opportunity to meet new people. You hope that the people coming to the stall, come along to the society but regardless it’s nice to see new faces.”
Lgtbq+ Network
Networks are similar but different in the way that they are meant for students looking to connect with people who share the same identity as them. The lgtbq+ network is no exception. It’s a network chaired by and for all lgtbq+ students no matter their gender identity or sexuality. Everyone is welcome. They run activities every Thursday. The best part though is that due to it being a network, it is free to join.
Accessing the network really helped me in my first year so if you’re queer student or exploring your identity, I’d highly recommend giving the network a chance.
When I asked what freshers meant to them they said.
“Freshers is a very exciting time due to getting to meet so many people. It’s also a new beginning and a chance to try new things.”
Other Societies
Those were not the only societies and networks freshers had to offer. There was the A Capella Society, The Anime Society, The BSL Society, The Christian Union, The Dead Poets Society, The Debating Society, The Fashion Society, The Film Society, The K-Pop Society, The Musical Production Society and much more.
Not only that but there’s also the sport societies that offer a wide variety of activities from Lifting, Hockey, Volleyball, Netball and Men and Women’s Rugby.
Whilst The Lgtbq+ Students Network and The Disabled Student’s Network were the only ones at fresher’s there are a few more networks. There’s the BAME Students Network and the Commuting and Mature Students Network.
Conclusion
Freshers is the ultimate experience that I recommend you do not miss out on. There are loads of freebies and opportunities that will help you make the best of your time here with us. As a first-year my biggest regret was not being able to fully embrace the excitement and buzz that the fair brings.
Thank you for reading, I hope sharing my experience and about what freshers has to offer has been helpful.
