Tuesday 20-08-2024 - 11:58

Whilst moving to Uni is a thrilling and exciting experience, at The Union understand that it can also be a bit daunting and bring up some anxieties, especially when it comes to the drinking culture.

Well, don't worry! We’re here to help.

 

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If you’re worried about the idea of having to drink alcohol during freshers or at uni, you’re not alone. So many students feel the same way after hearing about mad uni nights out. In fact, recent trends show that fewer uni students are wanting to drink.

Fresher’s Week can feel like an absolute whirlwind, and with the added pressure of wanting to make new friends, it can be easy to get caught up in peer pressure. The first few weeks at uni is all about meeting new people and having new experiences but that doesn’t mean you ever need to compromise on your values.

The first thing to remember is that there is absolutely no pressure to drink alcohol during your time at uni. If you’re ever concerned about peer pressure or your drinking habits, there’ll always be help available at The Union’s Advice Centre.

 

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Alcohol-free events

Being yourself is the best way to make genuine friends. So, if you’re worried about pressure to drink, finding alcohol-free events is a great way to ease your anxieties.

During Welcome Week, The Union are putting on a lineup of over 30 events to help you settle in, make new friends, and start your university journey on the right foot. 

From the epic Fresher’s Fair, where you can explore various clubs and societies, to themed parties and movie nights, there's something for everyone.

Here’s just some of what we’ve got planned: 

 

• Freshers Fair: two days' worth of freebies, fun and more. Why not pop down and discover all the student societies and services available, meet new people and maybe even win some prizes along the way. 

 

• After Dark: Get ready to dance, sing and boogie the night away with our Big Balls Bingo Bingo, Café Karaoke, Speed Quiz and Roller Disco Nights.

 

• Outdoor Activities: Get active and involved in our obstacle courses, scavenger hunts and walking tours.

 

• Artist Exhibitions and Talks: Be artistically inspired with photography and art discussions, poetry readings and drama performances.

 

• Cultural Events: Celebrate diversity with The Union's very own Culture Fest, along with Film Screenings, and cultural exhibitions. 

 

• Wholesome Days Out: Make yourself at home with our Poster and Plant Sale or even join The Union for a trip to IKEA. Maybe even treat yourself and your housemates to some thrifting at our Vintage Clothing Sale. 

   

 For more info about our Welcome Week lineup, have a look here. 

 

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Other Ways to get involved

At Manchester Met there are plenty of ways to meet other people without drinking

• Clubs and Societies: At The Union there are over 130 clubs and societies you can join, from crochet and knitting to anime.  And with over 6,000 members, you’re bound to find your people.

Can’t find anything that interests you? You can start your own club or society.

• MMU Sport: Manchester Metropolitan have over 40 student-ran clubs for you to join where 4,000 teams compete in BUCS competitions, leagues, and events.

Not fancying playing competitively? You’re more than welcome to book onto any of these free sport and fitness sessions.

 

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At The Union and Manchester Met there are plenty of ways to meet friends without drinking, and we’re here to support you in finding the events and spaces where you’ll feel most comfortable.

Our top tip to make genuine friends? Just be yourself. Drinking at uni is not the be-all end-all - if anyone asks why you’re not drinking, it's perfectly fine to say you just don’t want to.

You’ve got this, and The Union are so excited to welcome you to Manchester!