Freshers’ season is one of the most exciting times in the CU calendar. It’s your chance to welcome new students, build friendships, and introduce them to the life-changing message of Jesus. This page is packed with ideas and resources to help you make the most of every opportunity to welcome new students to CU.
Freshers’ fairs, also known as welcome week fairs, are a key opportunity to introduce new students to CU and welcome them in.
A great freshers’ fair stall should be:
Freshers’ week is just the beginning. The first few weeks of term are a great time to build community and introduce students to the gospel. As you plan your events, remember how it feels to start somewhere new - students may feel anxious, and at the same time, may be willing to explore new things! Use this as both an encouragement and something to bear in mind.
5 questions to ask when planning events:
Pairing new students with returning CU members can help them settle into university life and experience Christian community from day one. Here are a few ideas for building friendship:
In the days following results day, a welcome call is a great way to connect with new students before they even arrive on campus. Hosting a welcome call allows you to answer practical questions about university life, local churches, and what the CU is all about. It helps reduce anxiety by giving students a friendly face and a sense of belonging before they step foot on campus. These early connections can make a huge difference in helping students settle in and feel confident about getting involved.
To make your welcome call effective, promote it well in advance through social media, church networks, and any contact lists you have. Plan a clear and welcoming schedule, including time for Q&A. Most importantly, follow up afterwards with personal invitations to in-person events, to turn a digital connection into the real thing.