If you’re starting university soon, you’re likely to be feeling excited about the new challenges ahead. You may, however, be a little apprehensive moving away from home for the first time, and probably a little unprepared. But don’t worry, we’ve put together a fantastic list of ways you can prepare for university over the remaining days of summer.
1. Find student accommodation
Living on your university campus is probably one of the most important experiences for a student, and what most students want to do in their first year.
It’s likely that your university halls will offer a choice of different room types, facilities, and catered options to suit a range of different budgets and priorities. Once you’ve received your student accommodation pack from your university, work out your budget and priorities to help you find the best student room for you;
Do you want to live in fully-catered accommodation?
Would you like to have en-suite facilities?
How many housemates would you like to live with?
These are the type of questions that you should ask yourself before choosing which room you want to live in. If you’re not really sure where you want to live, look for advice on your University's accommodation page, or ask friends who have lived in university accommodation for recommendations.
Haven’t secured a place in university accommodation? Don’t panic! There’s plenty of accommodation options to choose from, and we’re more than happy to help you find the perfect place for you. We list thousands of rooms on StudentTenant.com, from private student halls, private houses, or lodgings - start your search today!
2. Learn to budget
Unfortunately, money doesn’t grow on trees, and the bank of mum and dad isn’t always going to be available for you to withdraw some money when you need it. It’s a good idea to work out how much you’re spending on food, rent and bills before you start spending it. Create a budget detailing how much you’re going to allow yourself to spend each month, and try your best to stick to it.
However, don’t stress about money too much. It’s always a good idea to work out how much money you’ve got to spend each month, but don’t let it ruin your university education or enjoyment.
Do you want some more in-depth tips on how you can manage on a strict student budget? We’ve put together five detailed tips on how you can enjoy university life, pay all of your bills and live within your budget here.
3. Learn to cook
There’s no doubt that you’ve been told time and time again by family and friends that you need to learn to cook before heading off to university – and they’re not wrong. Living on takeaways isn’t going to be the healthiest route, or an affordable option on a student budget, so learning to cook is a must.
The food you cook doesn’t have to be Michelin starred, or particularly extravagant. All you’ll need to do is purchase some basic cookbooks or ask someone to teach you, because chances are, it’s much easier learning to cook than you might think! Cooking is all about getting the right ingredients, following a recipe and confidence. If you have all three of those, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious meals every time - just try not to burn your shiny new accommodation down!
4. Learn to wash your clothes
If you don’t know how to already, learning to wash and iron your own clothes is a must (well, at least the washing part!)
It may sound like a silly way to prepare for university, but most student accommodation providers don’t offer personal cleaning services, so you’ll have to learn to do it yourself. It’s a really simple skill that will certainly aid you not only at university, but for the rest of your life.
5. Get into a routine
It’s been a long summer, and it’s likely that you’ve fallen into the holidays with little to no structure in the day.
Set your alarm to wake you up at 9am, and stick to it. Not only will it make the days feel much longer, but it will also help you get into a routine of waking up for university when you start. Maybe think about having goals for each day, so at the end of them, you can say you’ve achieved something and get a sense of fulfilment!
6. Get to know your chosen university
It’s probably a good idea to get to know your university’s background before you head off on your big adventure.
Start by reading your university prospectus, as this should have pretty much all the key info you need. Also get in touch with people who have first-hand experience, by attending your university open days, or speaking to current students whilst having a tour of the campus. Like and follow your university social media channels so you’ll have a good idea of events and information, and you’ll also be able to ask them any questions directly.
7. Check your university modules
The best way you can prepare for being a student at university is to familiarise yourself with the content of the course before you start. Doing some background research will help you get back into the swing of things, and will give you a chance to find out which books you require for the year.
It’s also likely that you’ll have some module options in your first year of university. It’s worth doing a bit of research to make sure you’re choosing the right module for you, and to ensure that you’re choosing a subject which you will enjoy.
8. Prepare for freshers’ week
Once the timetable has been released from freshers’ week, you’ll know which events you want to attend. Make sure you have got everything prepared to survive a week of partying! Organise your fancy dress outfits, purchase your tickets, and stock up on hangover cures before you head off.