Moving away from home, living in a new city and making new friends can make going to university a daunting experience. But there’s no need to panic! Follow these top tips and you’ll be just fine…
Before you go
1. Find your new housemates online before you go with your university’s Facebook page or The Student Room. Plan what you’re all going to take with you, or you may end up with six kettles and no toaster!
2. Get a head start on what’s going on in Freshers’ Week so you can plan your budget. Many universities will publish schedules on their Student Union website.
3. Pack lots of fancy dress as there are always plenty of themed parties!
4. Buy a good quality saucepan. With the copious amounts of pasta and baked beans you’ll get through, it’s a good investment.
5. Get a student bank account. There are many perks and discounts offered by different banks so shop around. Check out Money Saving Expert to see which one’s best for you.
6. Many courses require students to buy a reading list and it’s a good idea to order your books in advance.
When you get there
7. Make sure you leave your door open while unpacking. This is a sure-fire way to make friends, as you will appear friendly and approachable.
8. Take a box of chocolates to share with your new flat mates. This is a great icebreaker and another easy way to make friends.
9. Go to the Freshers’ Fair. You may discover a new sport or society that you hadn’t heard of before – plus you’ll pick up loads of freebies!
10. From posters to pillows and photographs to fairy lights, it’s vital you make your room feel homely (just make sure you check with your university before sticking things all over the walls!).
11. Have a hoody and a pair of shoes in easy reach of your bed. You’ll be thanking us when the fire alarm goes off in the early hours of the morning.
12. Take your student card everywhere with you – you’ll be surprised by how many places you can use it at.
13. Register with a doctor as soon as possible. Freshers’ Flu is notorious so take care of yourself by eating plenty of fruit and veg.
14. Finally, and most importantly, have fun! Your time at university will fly by so take time to savour every moment.
Coming to the UK to study as an international student can be overwhelming. However, Foreign Students can help you with their Student Starter Pack 2012. Check it out here!
Once you’ve finished with your books for the year, sell them on and pack a profit. With DHL Service Point, you don’t get charged by the weight of your package – perfect for a box full of heavy books! Service Point is located in many Student Unions around the UK; click here to see if we’re at yours.