Settling into University Accommodation
Move in days are happening all over the city; here are some tips from a third year student on settling into University Accommodation comfortably and taking advantage of this new chapter of your life!
Feeling anxious about the move
Settling into university accommodation can be overwhelming, and a challenge. After two years of studying, moving into my third flat has been an interesting experience. As I write this, sat by the window in my studio flat with the candles lit and autumn jazz music playing over my headphones, I’m still trying to adjust to the idea that this will be my home for the next year. Not in a negative way, of course; living in university accommodation is an amazing step towards gaining more independence in the adult world, and I am very grateful I get to experience it in this way. But it is change, and change is always a struggle for me, as it is for many others. Moving away from home for the first time is a huge life change, and it’s okay to be nervous at the idea! But it is also a brilliant opportunity, and I am here to help you feel just that little bit more comfortable during the process.
Comfort and homesickness
My first, and most important tip, is about comfort. Take items that make you feel safe and at ease. This doesn’t have to be much, but something as a reminder of where you lived before can be really helpful in making the transition much easier. Instead of feeling isolated in a completely new setting, decorate with familiar things that bring you joy and security. This can be especially helpful if you are neurodivergent like me, and find it hard adjusting without familiarity around you. In my first year I was so intent on starting a completely new life at university with none of my old things, but after a week I went to my parents house and brought back all my stuffed animals, resulting in probably the best sleep of the week. Two years on, I have surrounded myself with things I love and treasure, and take them every time I move. It’s an essential part of the process now.
Getting to know your city
Getting to know the area around you has been important for me in settling in every time I move to a new part of York. If like me you have never lived in this city, having a day or two to walk around and figure out what shops or buildings are near you, or how long it takes you to get to certain places, can be really helpful. If you don’t have the means to go out for long, I’ve found that google maps is very helpful for figuring out distances between locations, which can then help you get to know the area you live in a bit better. The centre of York has some great shops like Savers, Boyes and Poundland for cheap essentials. The Yorvik Centre and Barley Hall are also two of my favourite places for a fun day out if you’re feeling bored, and the tickets last for a whole year after purchase. If you don’t feel like spending money, the art gallery close to Gillygate is free and always has something new to look at.
Bonding with housemates
Another thing I would recommend is getting to know your housemates as much as you can when you move in. Things such as sharing a meal once a week (spaghetti Bolognese is a staple), or inviting them into your shared space to play board games or listen to music, can be incredibly helpful in breaking the ice. It’s important to remember that most people are in exactly the same position as you, and are feeling quite strange due to the sudden transition. Have a chat, get to know their courses, hobbies, interests; you might find you have lots in common, and make a friend for life! Knowing that you are not alone makes the experience a lot easier, and it also allows you to integrate yourself socially in an easy way. If you are living alone in your first year, Welcome Week is a great way to get to know people as well. Events like the Fresher’s Fair and the Big Pub Quiz are easy to get to, and you will definitely find likeminded people that will become your friends in no time.
Rest and recuperation
This might sound a little cliché, but taking some time to rest and sleep well at least during your first week at a new place is essential. In a new environment you’re bound to be more tired than usual, especially with un-packing, events and adjusting to your space. Get lots of good sleep before Fresher’s Week so that if you are planning on going out at night or during the day to events, you’ll be rested enough to do them and feel good. For anyone during a big life change this tip will definitely make a difference to how you feel along the way, as well as reduce your anxiety and the overwhelming feelings that come with moving.
So, to conclude my tips…
I hope these tips gave you some comfort and advice for how to ease the change and help you move into your accommodation. This part of your life is so strange and overwhelming, but equally as exciting and full of amazing opportunities. Making it easier for yourself can definitely help you settle in, as it has done for me. I hope you have an amazing move in week!
Find out more information about our Student Accommodation here.