Accommodation
BASICS
Wherever you go to study, access to comfortable, convenient and safe accommodation is very important.
Where you live will be one of the biggest factors in your success at university.
It needs to be safe and secure, but not too far from others in your situation (because it’s generally better to be around others than face things alone).
It needs to be convenient – primarily for travelling to and from the university, but also for shopping as well as getting to social activities and coming home.
It needs to provide a place to study effectively. Virtually all university accommodation will provide a desk and chair, as well as a noticeboard of some sort and a place to shelve books. Some will provide a computer in your room as well as wi-fi access. Check what is available before you go. (If you are staying in private accommodation, try and find out about how much of this you will need to provide for yourself.)
It needs to include access to meal preparation and food storage. You won’t be able to afford eating out or buying fast food every day. It’s just not feasible. And preparing your own meals most of the time will be healthier, as well as providing a much-needed break from your studies a few times a day.
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Ask how much cupboard space is available and whether it can be locked – you’d be surprised how much food you can lose to hungry/hungover flatmates!
It needs to be warm in the winter and well ventilated. If you are uncomfortable, you won’t be at your best.
It also needs to be peaceful – when required. You may well be the gregarious type but there will undoubtedly be occasions when you need some time to yourself. This especially applies to getting a good night’s sleep.
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Think about buying some mouldable earplugs and/or a sleep mask. A Bluetooth speaker to play white noise or relaxing music might be a good investment as well.
Of course, if you have attended an Open Day at the university, you may well have some of the answers you need already. However, things can change, and it is important to find out as much as you can before arriving. If there is anything you are not sure about, be sure to ask the university Student Services department. Forewarned is forearmed.
Living at home?
Many students choose to save money by going to a university close to their home. If that is you, you may think you don't need to worry about accommodation. But this is only half true.
Read more about that HERE.