Freshers Week: Expectations vs. Reality

One week ago today, I was experiencing a typical lazy Sunday and enjoying my last day with no uni obligations. During the day I tried to quell my apprehension about meeting brand new people, which I would go on to do that night at the Icebreaker Predrinks event, exclusive to non-halls dwellers. I didn't even know what the Icebreaker was at first; when I found out I had no interest in attending, but still made myself go to the meet up. The first of many buses during the week turned up fairly promptly, but I had difficulty finding the pub. Eventually I made it there, but couldn't find the group, so I sat with some second years for half an hour before making contact with them via Facebook. I chatted with the intended group for about an hour, but I didn't even get a drink. We did, however, agree to meet to walk to our induction talk the next morning, so that was something. Oh, how it's developed from there! Here's a retrospective list of the things I expected, plus what really happened.

Expectation #1

I would meet up with the home-dwellers once, go to the folk night alone, and do nothing for the rest of the week.

Reality #1
I went out every evening between Sunday and Friday, and went to the comedy night on Monday instead, which was probably a better decision. In addition to that, I went to the Archery Have-A-Go session yesterday!

Expectation #2

I'd make small talk with the people at the first event and one or two people at my course meetings, but not really get to know anybody.

Reality #2
I've acquired eight new Facebook friends and four phone numbers, as well as getting to know a good group of people!

Expectation #3

I'd have one small alcoholic drink per event.

Reality #3
I drank a pint of Guinness and most of a bottle of beer on Friday... enough said!

Expectation #4
I'd avoid clubs at all costs.

Reality #4
Seven of us went to a club on Tuesday night, and it was actually a pretty good experience!

All of this actually happened, plus more, and it's got my uni life off to a great start! With under 12 hours until my first lecture starts, I'd better finish off here, with the hope that uni continues to be this fun!