As thousands of students descend upon the University of Wollongong this week, we’ve put together an O-Week guide of what not to miss.
Free stuff
Your orientation day during the O-Festival will include myriad of free stuff that you probably don’t need but most certainly will want. Pens, stickers, fairy floss, liquid nitrogen ice-cream, tote bags, sausage sizzles and, of course, the much-sought-after Red Frogs Calendar.
(This planner is a staple for any uni student who’s at least half serious about their degree. New students will soon learn that this little calendar is essential to the yearly pretense of turning over a new study habits leaf.)
O-Festival
Zorb balls, live accoustic music, band comp, festival stalls, clubs and societies – take some time out from enrollment stress to soak in the vibes on campus.
Things to avoid: getting sucked in to every club you see. We’ve all done it, there’s no shame. But remember you can walk away, don’t write your name down out of pity! The good news is that most clubs are pretty harmless, you’ll just get a lot of spam.
The person in the giant dog costume. Every year a giant Scottish man walks around on stilts accompanied by a giant dog-person. It’s terrifying. Avoid at all costs.
Pool party
Float around on a giant flamingo, have a go at the floating obstacle course or just chill and soak up some vitamin D. Free entry for UOW students, so bring your student ID! Tuesday 4:30pm, UniActive Pool.
Movie under the stars
Settle in for a chill night watching Wonder Woman. Chairs are limited, so bring a rug, some cushions and settle in early to listen to live music before the movie starts. Free event, bring cash for waffles and street-style food. Wednesday 7pm, Duck Pond Lawn (wet weather, UniHall).
O-Party
With Triple J’s Tom Tilley headlining, and Hockey Dad making an appearance, this is sure to be one heck of a night! Free for UOW students, general admissions $10 at the door, RSVP online. Thursday 7:30pm, UniBar.
Goodwill hunting
Arguably the best event of them all, go and whet your insatiable appetite for free stuff at the annual Goodwill Hunting op shop. UOW staff and community donate a huge bunch of stuff each year to fit out poor students’ homes. Furniture, cutlery, homewares, they’ve got the lot, just bring your student ID.
Warning: stuff disappears quickly, it’s every man for himself. As one of the most popular O-Week events, lines can get super long so get there nice and early! Friday 12pm, UniHall.
Aside from the official line-up, keep your eyes peeled for flyers and Facebook events for other O-Week celebrations, whether it be something held in a local venue, or a wild house party if that’s more your style.
Now go forth and orientate!
