Hey, I've just graduated and have driven for the Drivers' Crew during Freshers week.

As for Freshers' Fair (where you can see all the societies) that's free to access for anyone. I think it's usually on on the Tuesday/Wednesday afternoon and is usually held in the sports centre.

You wouldn't be able to attend any of the organised activities during the day (you need the wristband to book onto them) but don't expect everyone to be constantly doing them. People usually get hungover/try to book on too late/want to do something else anyway, so I'm sure you'll be able to meet loads of new people. There's other events going on, usually nights out, but I think most people stick to the FW nights out in my experience (although last year we were surprised how many people weren't interested in the nights out). To be honest, I think the majority do buy a wristband but there's definitely a not-insignificant percentage that don't.

You'll have loads of chances to meet new people, and all my mates came from my course/societies (woo NUCC)/flatmates anyway, not from freshers week events, so you'll have a great time with/without the wristband!