Dear Agony Aunt... 09/25

By Cordell Punter, Community Subeditor

Hello, and welcome to Epigram’s first Agony Aunt column as part of the new Community section.

There's too much to do, what shall I pick?

Starting afresh for many in a new city means countless opportunities: clubbing, climbing, a cappella… and as such it can feel overwhelming. Try find a familiar society to you (like tennis) and then another for something you have never done before, but you might just be interested in (maybe film club). The new people you meet in your flat/course for freshers will also provide you with new and different experiences. Don’t feel pressured however to do everything, as you don’t want to wear yourself thin. Relax dude.

No one from my school came here, how do I make friends quick?

It's very daunting starting something new with unfamiliar faces but remember there are also thousands of other people in the same position. Think back to being at school, where your friends a few years prior you would have never heard of too. The exact same happens here too, so just be open, be yourself and find your people naturally. The biggest ‘red flag’ is trying to be too pushy or forcing yourselves on others, people will find you and you’ll find them.

I'm new to Bristol and love running, but I don't know any routes. Where should I go?

A great question for a runner to answer, firstly try out running club as they would provide plenty of examples and of course co-runners! Secondly a great app/website is Komoot which suggests loads of different routes (running, hiking, cycling) for whatever level you want. In Bristol itself, I would recommend the Avon path (providing a great view of our river), Clifton downs and around the floating harbour. All these paths are relatively flat, but if you’re into a challenge of a run then Delph woods and Ashton court estate are a good place to start.

Is ‘Give it a go’ worth it?

Uh… Absolutely. ‘Give it a go’ allows you to try completely new things for free or just a few quid, which is great if you’re unsure on a society. Most societies would provide a give it a go in the first couple weeks and you will be more than welcome to attend the group – no experience? No problem. And if you don’t enjoy it, then there is no pressure on you to attend again, but if you love it then it’ll be a weekly ritual for you.