**This is a Guest post**
Moving to university is an exciting time for any new student. Marking a new chapter, university is often the first time most students learn to live away from home. Not only will you learn more in your chosen academic field, but you can also learn important life skills.
In this guide, we’ll take you through how to prepare when moving to university. Being as organised as possible will ensure you transition smoothly to student life. It can also minimise any stress if you are moving further afield.
Starting Your Preparation
Make sure you have a note of all important dates regarding your university course. This includes the following:
- Moving in date
- When the course term starts
- When the course term ends
- Moving out date
This allows you to plan in advance when you will be living at your accommodation and when you will be going home.
While university is a great place to learn essential skills, it’s imperative that you learn some of the basics before you move in. This includes knowing how to do laundry and cooking a variety of meals, so you can begin to enjoy student living quickly.
Following your university on the main social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter is a great way to engage with the community. You can also connect with other Freshers and people on your course.
You’ll also have to be aware of what items are prohibited from the student accommodation. Pets are typically not allowed. However, guide dogs and other assistance dogs that have been approved will be permitted. Other items that are usually forbidden include appliances such as mini-fridges and kettles.
Sorting Your Finances
Being financially savvy will allow you to make the most of your university life and can also teach you valuable life skills. Most students receive student loans for their studies. The payments are made at the start of each semester, so it’s imperative that you learn to budget at the beginning of the term.
While it can be tempting to go all out during Freshers Week, it’s important to calculate a budget once you receive your money. A great way to keep track of your spending habits is by keeping a budget ledger. You can use a physical copy, create a spreadsheet, or use an app that clearly shows how much you spend and what you purchase.
Packing Your Items
Before you move to university, you’ll need to research what you need to pack. Most parents will help their children out with a packing list. This ensures that they have everything they need for basic living such as utensils and crockery.
You should also check that you have a good enough laptop for your studies. While universities do typically have computer rooms, it is far more convenient to have your own device. This allows you to work from the comfort of your own room. To save on costs, you can buy a laptop from a trusted secondhand website.
Arranging Health and Medication
You can visit your GP to check to discuss other medications including repeat prescriptions. You should also visit your dentist well in advance, to avoid any further treatment at the start of your university journey.
When you arrive at your university campus, register with the university’s GP or another local GP as soon as possible. You should also learn where the nearest hospital is just in case.
You should tell your flatmates where your medication kit is if you have conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy. It can also be useful to teach them how to use an EpiPen in cases of allergies and emergencies while they wait for further assistance to arrive.
Purchasing Your Reading List
Most universities will send a welcome pack in the post or via email once your place has been confirmed, including a reading list. This list will detail any books that you will need to purchase before your course begins. However, you may be provided with printouts or PDFs, meaning you can save money.
Always aim to get the correct edition of the books as this will be easier to follow in class if your lecturer references a specific page. You can source your books from secondhand websites such as Amazon.
Moving Your Belongings
Moving day is one of the biggest days for any student, especially in the first year. Not only will you finally see your new home, but you’ll also meet your flatmates and other people on your course. Part of this day will be arranging the transport of all your belongings to your student accommodation.
If you have a lot of items to move, you can hire a small removal company that can ensure that your move is as convenient as possible. Known as a man and van company, they will offer expert advice on the best moving method for you and assign the right number of team members to assist. Some companies offer extra upgrades including professional packing services.
This can take the stress from your moving day and allow you to settle into your new home at your own pace. If you have a lot of heavy items such as computers and boxes of books, your movers can assist in bringing them into your new accommodation.
Freshers Week and Beyond
Freshers Week gives you the opportunity to see what your university has to offer. This includes activities such as library tours and social activities. This allows you to meet people on your course and get to know those in your flat.
The best way to make the most out of Freshers Week is by reviewing the schedule in advance. Most universities will provide this schedule, allowing you to plan ahead.
Whether you already have an interest or have always wanted to try something new, the Freshers Fair will give you a chance to sign up. Bear in mind that some societies may charge a fee for new members and any materials and equipment may incur additional costs. There are also plenty of freebies on offer at Freshers Fair, making it one of the most popular events of Freshers Week.
Conclusion
In conclusion, moving to university is a huge step, but being organised will help you settle in and reduce stress. Having as much in place before your move will make things easier once you have moved in.
Once you have moved in, it’s important to make use of the Freshers Week events as this will familiarise you with your new home. It will also give you the chance to meet peers and get to know your flatmates.
Fraser’s Fun House 