The beginning of term is not only a period of immense change for the many freshers joining us this October, but also in the astrological calendar. Having just experienced a jolting transition from the practicality of Virgo season to the harmony and diplomacy associated with Libra, we now face, among other things, a Jupiter in retrograde and a full moon in Aries. What does all this mean? Well, whether you’re debating when to join that society or pondering how to befriend your DoS, perhaps the answers lie in the stars…

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

When Venus in Scorpio collides with Saturn in Pisces on October 4, you may lose some of your naturally competitive tendencies and finally resolve that academic rivalry. You’ve had the summer to reflect and, in hindsight, it seems a little ridiculous that you didn’t speak to one another for the entirety of Easter term. Here’s to repairing relationships!

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

We know you love the grind, but Libra season is all about balance, harmony and being kind to yourself. Work hard, yes. Play hard, certainly. But don’t forget to take time to relax, watch a movie and practice self-care this term.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Gemini freshers, watch out. When Mercury in Libra aligns with Mars in Cancer on October 5, those already known for their passionate and impulsive natures must not let this intense period drive them towards making the snap decision to sign up for far more societies than they can handle.

“You’re going to end up being the parent on every night out”

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

This Freshers’ Week, you’re going to end up being the parent on every night out. Being the parent requires a certain flexibility between assertiveness and sensitivity – a difficult feat that may prove easiest on October 9, when Jupiter goes retrograde in Gemini.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Your lively and extraverted nature might help you make friends this Freshers’ Week, but may not go down so well with your DoS. On October 14, the alignment of the Sun in Libra and Mars in Cancer makes the world ripe for uncovering new enemies. Perhaps one of them will be your DoS or maybe they’ll become your best friend. My advice: don’t risk it.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

You know how it is: one minute, it’s Freshers and you’re having the time of your life; the next minute, term has started and it’s time to lock in. Thankfully, you’ll have no trouble adapting to the rhythms of Cambridge life. Your practical and methodical nature will shine through as the full moon enters Aries on October 17.

“Term has started and it’s time to lock in”

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

This is Libra season. This is your Freshers’ Week. Own it.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Now is the perfect time to achieve your ambition of holding a committee position. When Venus in Scorpio mingles with Neptune in Pisces on October 15, this influx of dreams and creativity will combine with your resourceful and stubborn nature, helping you rise to the top. So, what are you waiting for?

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

With the start of term comes a rush of possibilities. Could you finally get that blue? Direct that play? Become that academic weapon? Well, there’s only one way to find out! On October 17, Venus in Scorpio collides with Pluto in Capricorn, opening up a world of possibilities. If you’ve been hesitating about trying something, now is the time to say yes.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

You’re going to be an amazing college parent, I can tell. Capricorns are thought of as serious and independent. But you’re going to make the most of the planetary alignments on October 8 to pour that same intensity you bring to everything else into making sure your children are prepared for the ups and downs of Cambridge life.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

October 11 is the last time Pluto will be moving forward in Capricorn during our lifetimes – the end of an era, if you will. It’s the perfect occasion to embrace your deep and imaginative personality and reflect on your time at Cambridge. The hecticness of the next eight weeks means you’ll never get another opportunity once term starts. So, have a think. How are you going to make this year your best yet?

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

October 17 is your time to shine. Venus entering Sagittarius means people will be more open to getting to know you on an intellectual level. Don’t be afraid to stay up into the early hours discussing hard-hitting topics with those you’ve just met. You might just meet the one. Be wary, however, of oversharing.