Welcome to the University of Bristol

Welcome to Bristol, Bris, Briz, Brizzle. Whatever you end up calling it, welcome to your new home.

A city well deserving of its many accolades, famous for its culture, its eclectic mix of architecture, lively
music scene, historic landmarks and thriving independent shop and cafe culture, there are few better places
you could have chosen to study in for the next few years of your life.

Bristol’s unique identity is rooted in its history of activism, its unmistakable creative spirit, and its population of friendly people – so kind that Bristol has been named the UK’s kindest city.

These things are really what make Bristol – dare we say it – unique. Its culture and its people are its lifeblood, its landscape a perfect blend between gritty urban and lush greenery.

New students can look forward to an in-person freshers’ fair – photo: courtesy of Bristol SU

It really does feel a privilege to be a student in Bristol. You will find your time as a student flies by. As we think back to our first few weeks as freshers, we’ve been remembering the buzz of arriving, the novelty of new surroundings and the excitement of the unknown.

While we hope that you will also come to reminisce on your time as a fresher with fond memories, we are
aware that your arrival and move into halls and indeed your experience as a first year may be marred by a world permeated by the pandemic.

However, while being a student during Covid-19 has its challenges, we are optimistic that your experience will be closer to ‘normal’ than last year.

An in-person freshers’ fair will give you the chance to see all the societies and activities that the University of Bristol has to offer. If we have one piece of advice, it is go!

Take advantage of anything face-to-face, sign up to any societies that grab your interest and be bold!

Along with freshers fair, this year you will even be able to go out (like, out-out.) On September 20, Gravity on the Clifton Triangle – a UoB student institution – will welcome you (restriction permitting) to mingle with other
freshers and get your first glimpse of Bristol’s renowned night-life scene.

The Students’ Union have organised a wide array of welcome events to get you acquainted with your new city.

From plant potting and afternoon tea parties, to club nights and drinks in the Balloon Bar, the SU is offering something for everyone starting at Bristol this year.

Whether you are looking to meet like-minded LGBTQ+ students, students who share your faith, or those who enjoy playing quidditch just as much as you, there really is an event for everyone.

When you are sitting in your uni halls, don’t forget there is a whole city right outside your window that’s waiting for you.

Explore it.

Get lost in it.

Bristol is a city of many stories; now it’s time for you to write your own.

Main photo: Martin Booth

Read more: A warm welcome to Bristol students from Bristol Booze

Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast: