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Freshers’ Week 2024 came to an exciting close. The school welcomed its newest intake of freshers across a range of computer science, electronic engineering, product design and engineering topics.  The week was designed to help students settle in and explore their new surroundings. The week was packed full of fun activities, creative events, academic introductions, and thrilling challenges. 

One of the most creative events of the week saw students coming together in teams to take on a balloon chair-building competition. Using colourful balloons, students raced to create chairs that could hold the weight of team members — some with more success than others! It was great to see some impressive creations, good teamwork and a dose of engineering skills at work! Students were then treated to pizza. It was a perfect start to their week. 

Mid-week, freshers had the chance to delve into their courses and meet current students who shared tips and stories about life in their chosen programs. As the week progressed, a building-wide scavenger hunt provided a chance for students to explore their new academic home. Teams worked together to find hidden clues across the Dean Street building, from lecture theatres to secret notes and fun facts on lecturers’ doors. For many students, the hunt was a fun and interactive way to familiarize themselves with the range of lab spaces, lecturer rooms, common rooms, hallways and academic offices. By the end, students not only had a better idea of where their lectures and classes would be but also had formed bonds with their teammates as they raced around campus. 

One of the week’s highlights was the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Students and staff mingled and shared tea and cakes and played quizzes.  Everyone had to build the craziest hats, with some seriously creative and bizarre headwear on display. The tea party was a huge success, which gave students a chance to connect, and meet the staff, in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. 

The grand finale of Freshers’ Week—and arguably the most anticipated event—was go-karting. Students were bussed to the go-kart track. Over 40 participants lined up to race. Academics and students were speeding round the track, with friendly but fierce competition. The event was a huge success, providing a thrilling end to the week. Looking back, many freshers described the week as a perfect mix of fun and practical experiences. Students at the go-karting expressed that it was such a rush, and reflected on the scavenger hunt, expressing that it really helped them figure out the layout of the campus. Others felt the tea party and balloon chair challenge gave them a chance to let loose and express their creativity before the academic workload kicks in. 

Freshers’ Week 2024 wrapped up with smiles, new friendships, and an undeniable sense of excitement for what’s to come. Students now move forward into the term with new connections, confidence, and memories of an unforgettable start to their university life.