Student Brinda draws on her personal experience to offer a guide to where to live at university.
Choosing the right student accommodation can be one of the most important decisions as you prepare for your first year at university. It can be overwhelming. With so many options available, different price points, and the influence of social pressures, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As I submit my final assignments and prepare to graduate, I’m sharing a 5-step guide with tips to help you navigate through it all.
1. Understand
Before diving into the sea of accommodation choices, take a moment to think about what really matters to you. Set yourself a priority list with all the factors that matter most. I chose to live off-campus to have a change of scenery and be a short distance away from uni. However, staying on campus can be a good choice for socialising and having a safer environment, especially until you become familiar with the city.
2. Identify
It’s easy to be drawn in by Instagram ads featuring rooms that boast #minimalism but remember: not every Reel is Real; you might be surprised at how small those rooms are in person. When looking at potential places to live, look beyond the surface. Read the description and read what your rent covers. If you don’t understand something, contact the accommodation team and clarify whatever confuses you; they’re there to help.
Focus on practical features that contribute to your well-being and comfort like spacious rooms, good heating (nights get cold between November and February), and a reliable Wi-Fi connection to self-study (or binge a new series in one night – me).
3. Budget
Budgeting is a skill you’ll develop throughout university, so why not start now? While it’s tempting to consider pricier options that seem more fancy, it’s important to stay realistic about what you can afford. University life comes with costs that show up at the worst times.
Remember, cheaper doesn’t mean worse. You can find affordable accommodation that’s both comfortable and practical. And don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as utilities, transport, or any activities you want to get involved with during your first year.
4. Search
Think about your academic and personal needs. Find a location that offers a calm atmosphere. On the other hand, if you’re social and love meeting new people, look for accommodation where social events and a shared common space are part of the package.
Additionally, consider the opportunity to personalise your space; most off-campus and on-campus accommodation allows for decor that can be easily removed without damaging the property. Many brands also offer deals for freshers at the beginning of term 1.
5. Confirm
At university, you’re likely to experience academic and personal changes. Your needs might shift over time – that’s OKAY. While you might make the perfect accommodation choice at the start of the year, check in with yourself regularly to see if your needs are still being met.
Are you still happy with your living situation? Is the accommodation still serving your academic and personal needs? If not, change it up.
You are the main character, put yourself first. Remember, if you’re happy, you’ll love everything else anyway.