Find your society or sport club at Freshers' Fair

Whether you’re new to Sussex or you’re a returning student eager to see your friends after the summer break, Welcome Week is here to kick-start an unforgettable academic year.

We’ve curated a diverse range of activities to ensure you can all find something that resonates with you. This week is all about creating memories, making connections and igniting your university experience.

Here’s our selection of activities for this Welcome Week, but make sure to check the full Welcome Week listings and the Students’ Union Freshers’ pages too. Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates.

Getting to know campus and Brighton

Take time to explore our beautiful campus and the vibrant city of Brighton. Whether you’re a returning student or new to town, there’s always something to discover.

• Join one of our campus tours with our student ambassadors.
• Explore the Library and find out how to borrow books, access our online collection and book study spaces.
• Visit the Student Centre to find out about the support and guidance available to you. There will be a wide range of information stalls available each day, including housing, disability and international student advice.
• Discover the diversity of cafés and food outlets available to you on campus. There will be a Food Fest on the Bramber Lawns all week with games to give away lots of free samples. And you can try free tasters of our café concepts in the food stall in Library Square, including vegan bakery, Poke Bowl, Cream & Crumb Cheesecake pop-up and Social Kitchen.
• If you are new to Sussex and would like to get to know Brighton better, book onto our City sightseeing bus tour.
• And for those of you who prefer to explore the city on foot, the Students’ Union has organised several walking tours around Brighton.

Finding new friends

Starting university is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and forge lifelong friendships. There are a variety of events to help you connect with fellow students. Here’s a selection:

• Don’t miss the Students’ Union Freshers’ Fair on Wednesday 27 September. This is your chance to explore over 180 societies and sport clubs on campus.
• Silent Disco Beach Clean on Thursday 28 September. Meet fellow Sussex students on the beach, while helping to protect Brighton's marine wildlife.
• The Buddy Scheme matches current students with students who are new to Sussex or would like a helping hand based on your preferences, such as your interests, language or course. Come to the Buddy Scheme Welcome Picnic they are organising on Thursday 28 September and find out more.
• The University Chaplaincy is organising a Pizza party on Friday 29 September in the Meeting House. No need to book, just drop by!

Looking after yourself

Welcome Week can be exciting. It might feel overwhelming at times too. If you’re in need of a breather or a chance to unwind, come to the Wellbeing tent in Library Square. We have a range of activities lined up to help you relax and recharge.

You can also join the Biodiversity walk on Tuesday 26 September to explore the biodiversity around the beautiful Sussex campus and learn more about our wildlife and ecosystems. It’s a perfect opportunity to nurture your wellbeing and meet like-minded students who share your love of nature.

We hope you have a great start to the academic year!