Freshers Week Freebies: Why Promo Products Are a Hit with New Students

Freshers week, also sometimes called Welcome Week, is a period at the beginning of the academic year designed to welcome new students (freshers) to university. It typically lasts for a week, though it can be longer, and takes place just before classes start.

The main goals of freshers week are to:

• Help students settle in: This includes things like getting their student ID card, registering for classes, and learning about the campus facilities and resources.
• Introduce students to university life: There are often social events and activities planned to help students meet new people, explore the local area, and learn about the different clubs and societies available.
• Provide academic guidance: Freshers week may also include sessions on study skills, time management, and how to get help from academic advisors.

Freshers Week is a whirlwind of activity for new university students. It's a time for making friends, exploring campus, and getting acclimated to a whole new world. For universities, businesses, and student groups, it's also a prime opportunity to make a lasting impression.

This is where promotional products come in. These free giveaways, imprinted with your logo or message, are a fantastic way to connect with freshers during this crucial week. But why exactly are they so effective?

1. Walking Billboards:  Imagine hundreds of students carrying around branded tote bags, promotional water bottles, or notebooks – all emblazoned with your logo. These become walking advertisements, promoting your brand awareness to not just students, but also faculty, staff, and the wider community.

2. Building Brand Recall: Freshers Week is sensory overload for new students. By giving them a useful and attractive item, you create a positive association with your brand. Every time they use that cool water bottle or stylish tote bag, they'll subconsciously be reminded of your message.

3. Practicality is King: Students are a budget-conscious bunch. Promotional products that cater to their needs, like pens, notebooks, or phone chargers, are much more likely to be used and kept. Think of it as a helpful welcome gift that subtly promotes your brand.

4. Fostering Community Spirit: For student groups and clubs, branded t-shirts or wristbands can create a sense of belonging and identity among new members. This not only boosts club morale but also makes them more visible to potential recruits.

5. A Memorable Start: A well-chosen promotional product can become a treasured memento of a student's freshers week experience. Years later, they might still be using that quirky stress ball or sporting that gym bag, keeping your brand at the forefront of their mind.

When it comes to picking promotional products for freshers, you want to find the sweet spot between practicality, memorability, and representing your brand well. Here are some top contenders:

Essentials on the Go:

• Reusable Water Bottles: Eco-friendly and endlessly useful, a branded water bottle keeps students hydrated and your logo visible throughout the day.
• Tote Bags: Sturdy and stylish tote bags are perfect for carrying textbooks, groceries, or gym clothes. Choose a design that reflects your brand personality.
• Stress Balls: Freshers Week can be stressful! A fun-shaped stress ball helps students decompress while subtly promoting your message.

Tech and Organization:

• Power Banks: A lifesaver for students on the go, a branded power bank ensures their phones stay charged during long days on campus.
• USB Flash Drives: Pre-loaded with useful information or a discount, a branded USB drive is both practical and informative.
• Notebooks & Planners: Students go through notebooks like crazy. A high-quality branded notebook becomes a valuable study companion.

Fun and Functional:

• T-Shirts: Perfect for group activities or club events, branded t-shirts create a sense of community and promote your brand at the same time.
• Phone Chargers: A universal phone charger is a welcome addition to any student's backpack, keeping them connected and your logo in sight.
• Sunglasses: A practical and trendy giveaway, sunglasses with your logo are perfect for sunny days on campus.

Bonus Tip: Consider the theme of your event! Planning a sustainability fair? Hand out reusable straws or tote bags.

Remember, the best promotional products are those that students will actually use and keep. Choose something that aligns with your brand and caters to the needs of freshers, and you'll be sure to make a lasting impression!