17 September 2009

As freshers' week kicks off across the country, thousands of  students find themselves in a position of unprecedented freedom.

With parties to attend, societies to join, union bars to frequent and a whole new city to explore, it is easy to get carried away.

However, it is important to cast the right impression. Whether in the union bar, out on the town, in your first seminar or in your hall's kitchen, mind your manners and be considerate towards others.

Debrett's - the modern authority on etiquette and manners - has provided a list of top etiquette tips to help students get it right:

1.    Introduce yourself to strangers at parties. Everyone is in the same boat, so don't worry about making the first move.

2.    Listen to what other people tell you, and ask questions. Conversation is likely to be about A-level results, school, courses and gap years.

3.    Be social. Operate an open door policy when you move into your halls.

4.    Be a joiner. Sign up to societies and clubs, but don't go mad - build on your existing interests and expand your horizons.

5.    While it's good to be open to new experiences, exercise a little caution. You may end up doing something in freshers' week that will haunt you for the next three years.

6.    Watch your budget. Don't blow the entire term's allowance on overindulging in week one.

7.    Away from parental and school supervision, hormones will run high. Make sure you're not the talk of the campus.

8.    The pints may be cheap and you'll inevitably overindulge, but keep your wits about you.

Jo Bryant, etiquette advisor for Debrett's said: "Freshers' week is a daunting time for students all over the country and with the freedoms and independence of university comes a great deal of responsibility."

She added: "Freshers should throw themselves into university life and enjoy themselves, but make sure that  the week is memorable for all the right reasons."

Notes to Editors:

Debretts.com offers a wealth of expertise, information and advice at the click of a button. Find out about modern etiquette and manners, the people making the news, the season's events, correct form for every occasion and how to plan a wedding.

For further information, or to speak to Jo Bryant, etiquette advisor for Debrett's, please call 020 8939 2250, or email press@debretts.com

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