‘If I go again, I’ll definitely make sure I…’
Often when you go on holiday, you have a great time but come away with a mental checklist of things you’d do differently next time. Something to bring, or not bring. What to try and what to avoid.
So, to help you prepare ahead of Forum, we asked some Forum experts what advice they'd give to first-timers…
1. Stay warm
‘If you think you've packed enough warm layers to sleep in, you haven't.’ – Naomi, CU Staff Worker in Hertfordshire
It’s August, but it’s August in Wales. It may be time to dig out that woolly hat. Temperatures often drop during the night, so we’ll provide places to fill up hot water bottles, and extra blankets which you can request at reception. Find a full list of what to bring here.
2. Raid the bookstall
‘Buy lots of books. They're cheap, and a good bookcase makes you look smarter than you are.’ – Matt, Dundee CU
At Forum, 10ofThose kindly run a bookstall, selling a wide range of fantastic books on faith, evangelism, and discipleship all at great prices. These will be great to read ahead of starting uni, or perhaps to start up a book club with freshers you meet in September. So come with a little room in your suitcase, and your budget!
3. Hygiene first
‘For the sake of your pals, and literally everyone, shower at least once.' – Ben, Birmingham City CU
Hygiene is key – so make the most of showers on site, bring hand sanitiser, face coverings, maybe even some deodorant...
4. Bring games
‘American footballs are great friend-making devices.’ – Dela, Hertfordshire CU
There will be plenty of time to relax and get to know others in the tents around you. It's a great place to make new friends from all over the country, and hear about what other CUs are up to.
5. Think about food
‘Let's just say that spinach does not keep well in a cool box in a tent for five days. Make sure that you only use fresh ingredients during the first couple of days, after that you will need tinned fruit and veg.’ – Becky, Royal Holloway CU
Do you get grumpy when you're hungry? There will be food vans and a café on site, but planning ahead with a meal plan (and buying plenty of snacks) could make all the difference. There's also the option to go catered.
6. Expect the unexpected
'If you're invited on a midnight walk from the campsite to Wales, absolutely go. Just make sure you're not wearing flip flops when you do because, otherwise, you'll break a toe like I did.' – Chris, former Portsmouth CU leader
Maybe there are some things you just can't prepare for. Expect the unexpected at Forum.
See you there!
We’re so excited to meet in-person for Forum 2021. If you’re booked on, you’re in for a treat. (If you’re not booked on yet – why not?!)
There will be excellent teaching from the Bible, training for mission next year, time to meet other CU leaders and make friends. Like hundreds of others across the years before you, you’ll leave excited about the chances you have to make Jesus known, and eager to get onto campus and get going. See you there!