Freshers’ Week was that time of year when students were busier than Valletta’s streets on a Saturday morn­ing. Students running back and forth, dressed in printed T-shirts representing their course or organisations; posters and banners hanging everywhere. It felt like being in the middle of an academic frenzy.

As a fresher, I went to Freshers’ Week with one thought in mind: ‘Make the most of it’. As I eagerly made my way up the stairs to the Quadrangle, I was bombarded by a cacophony of music, cheers, laughter, promoters, loud conversations, papers and leaflets.

One of the reasons students look forward to Freshers’ Week is the freebies. In this regard I went with high hopes but went home disappointed.

The freebies were nothing special overall – most were food or drinks, namely cupcakes, biscuits and doughnuts. After spending hours freebie-seeking, I had consumed quite a substantial amount but it was a far cry from what I expected.

Something I couldn’t turn a blind eye to were the stands. They were highly organised and well decorated, with information and members eagerly ready to explain and promote their organisation.

I was astonished by the dedication and commitment the students showed. It is this dedication and enthusiasm that makes Freshers’ Week alive and successful. Even though the weeks that follow are far from relaxing and entertaining, during that one week, students can’t help but look at University through rose-tinted glasses and hope for a fruitful year.

There were debates, games and competitions, with students from different courses and organisations competing against each other to win prizes.

It was a week that enabled the students’ creativity to run wild and encouraged everyone to join in the academic spirit.

It acted as an icebreaker for newcomers and gave them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of their choice, whether it’s science, IT, technology, media or sport, and be entertained.

No matter how stressful University life may be, Freshers’ Week acts as a comic relief that grounds students and keeps them in touch with their capabilities and potential.

Now that Freshers’ Week has come to an end, students are encouraged to put on their thinking caps and start or continue their journey towards a successful academic year.

Laura Cuschieri is a Master’s student in dental surgery and a writer for Insite.

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