A student’s guide to finding your perfect accommodation guide

Hi, I am Tia a second-year Human Geography student here at York St John! In today’s blog I am going to be discussing my experience in staying in the student accommodation here at YSJ. My first-year accommodation was spent in of the University owned accommodation – St John Central. This is one of the more popular choices here at the university as it offers city-centre living right in the heart of York (about a 5-minute walk from the Shambles). The space itself was very modern, with facilities such as laundry services and ensuite rooms.

How did I know?

One of my biggest concerns when moving to university was finding the right accommodation for me. Depending on your circumstances and preferences everybody’s accommodation process will look slightly different. For me personally, I was looking for somewhere close to the city, ensuite bathrooms, but not somewhere too expensive. The accommodation that ticked all of these boxes was St John Central. During one of the open days, I visited the accommodation with my parents to get a real feel for the building and rooms – I loved it! The flats hold 6 people all of whom will share the kitchen and living space (you need to bring pots, pans, kettle, toaster, and utensils). You each get your own separate bedroom and bathroom with a single bed, desk, plenty of shelf and storage space and a shower.

Move-In Day

When I received my keys to my accommodation, I was super excited and slightly nervous! This was my first time moving away from home, once I entered the space at first my room was very bland and felt like a hotel room. I moved in on the Saturday and by the end of the weekend I had met all flatmates and friends in the building who I met over social media. The accommodation itself is very lively with different people on veery floor. However, it is very quiet and when I was in my room, I could hardly hear any noise coming from my flatmates.

What to pack

Moving away from home does feel daunting, and arriving in a new space where you are now going to live does feel unfamiliar and weird. When I first saw my room, it felt like I was staying in a hotel and that once a week had past, I would just be going back home. My top tip would be to bring decorations, fairy lights, pictures of friends and family. When I finally decorated my room, it felt like mine and it was a perfect space for me to come to at the end of a busy day. I would also recommend bringing plenty of cutlery, cheap plates, dishes, and cups. And make sure to pack an emergency medical kit with plasters, soothers, Lem sip all great for going into winter.