The University of Bolton opened its doors to local and national businesses, charities and organisations for this year’s Freshers’ Fair.
Dozens of stands set up camp in the University’s Chancellor’s Mall and Social Learning Zone. The annual event, organised with the Students’ Union, allowed students to get great introductory deals, sign up for local clubs and societies and get more information about what their new home town has to offer.
Stuart Jackson, 19, moved to Bolton from Buckinghamshire to study Games Art. He said: ‘So far it’s been great. I’m just settling in really, but everyone seems very friendly. I’ve just had my first lecture and the course seems just what I want. I studied games design at college for two years, so it will be good to take my skills up to the next level.’
The fair also gives Bolton-based businesses a unique opportunity to access a large and eager audience. Carol Rialas is a Director of the popular J2 nightclub. She said: ‘The Freshers’ Fair is a great event, we’re here every year. We hand out freebies and have a candy floss machine – which is always popular.’
As well as finding out about the latest club nights and signing up for activities like paintball, there is a practical side to the fair. Students could register at the doctors’, get advice from the local police on how to stay safe in their new town, learn about fire safety in halls or sign up to donate blood - all under one friendly roof.
Lottie Childs is from Lincolnshire and agreed the vibe of the University, and town as whole, is a friendly one: ‘It’s been a pretty hectic week, getting to know everyone and finding my way around but I’m enjoying it. I’ve already made some good friends and everyone around the place seems so friendly.’