Preparing for student accommodation
When going to university there are lots of different new experiences happening all around you from trying new foods to maybe switching up your wardrobe. However, one of the biggest changes for most people will be moving away from home. Not only will you most likely be living away from home for the first time and independently, but you will also be sharing with other students whom you might not have met before.
New independence comes with new responsibilities. You now need to think about your cooking, cleaning, washing etc, which might be things you have never done before. The months leading up to university are great to help start your slow transition into doing these tasks, this is so you aren’t overwhelmed with an abundance of things. In this blog, we share a few tips on preparing for student accommodation here at York St John University.
Here are some top tips for you to think about or to learn before you make the move to student accommodation:
- Learn how to do your washing
During your time at university, you will have to wash your own clothes (that’s if you don’t take bags full back home to be washed by your parents or guardians). Therefore, learning how to put a wash on will be important. Most accommodation sites will have a washing machine on site in either your kitchens or separately in a communal room. Colour catchers will be your best friend, pop them in every washing to ensure there isn’t a hidden pink sock with lights wash.
- Learn how to cook
Whether you’re a wannabe chef already or you only know how to switch a kettle or oven on. It is important to learn some basic cooking skills to help you get by before you move to university. For example, have a read up online of some simple recipes that are quick and easy to do such as chilli con carne, pasta bakes, one pot meals and traybakes.
- Get to know your flatmates
It’s important to introduce yourself and to make an effort during your first few days with your flatmates, even if you are shy. Just remember everyone is in the same position and usually out of their comfort zone.
- Have a clear out
Before heading to university, it is a great idea to have a good clear out of items that you no longer need. For example, sort through your unwanted clothes and accessories which could give you a few extra pounds if you sell them through reselling websites. You will also realise which are essential items and which aren’t when you have limited space moving to university compared to at home.
- Draw up a list of uni essentials
Similar to having a clear out you will have to comprise a list of essentials that you need to bring. It is important to remember that you don’t need to pack everything such as your whole wardrobe or six pots and pans. For some items such as kitchen equipment, it is great to reach out to your potential flatmates, so you don’t all end up bringing the same thing or have 5 tin openers.
