Posted on

4 Simple Hobbies for College Students

Hobbies for college students in Phoenix

College life is an exhilarating journey, marked by newfound independence and countless opportunities. As a college student in Phoenix, you have the perfect chance to explore hobbies and experiences that will enrich your time at university. In this article, we will present four engaging hobbies that are sure to captivate your interest. Get ready to dive into the world of hobbies for college students in Phoenix and unlock a range of benefits.

Embrace the Thrill of Running

Engaging in physical activity is an excellent way to enhance your university experience. Running is a versatile hobby that suits individuals of all fitness levels. You can pursue it at any time, in any location, and at your own pace. Not only does running help you stay in shape, but it also provides a valuable opportunity to clear your mind and reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins. Whether you prefer running alone, with a friend, or as part of a running group, this cost-effective hobby will undoubtedly bring numerous benefits to your student life.

Unwind with Fishing

While fishing may have a reputation as an activity for older individuals, it can be an incredibly therapeutic hobby for college students. Imagine spending a sunny afternoon outdoors, surrounded by peace and quiet, as you cast your line into a nearby lake or large pond. Fishing offers a chance to step away from your studies and the bustling social scene of the university. It allows you to clear your mind and focus on the present moment. Plus, fishing doesn’t have to break the bank. Explore Total Fishing Tackle’s wide range of affordable fishing gear to get started and enjoy the tranquility that this hobby brings.

Explore Your Artistic Side through Drawing or Painting

Amidst the busy college routine, taking time for artistic expression can be immensely rewarding. Drawing and painting provide an escape from the daily hustle and bustle of student life. Dedicate just half an hour each day to sketching or painting, and you’ll not only stay focused but also enjoy a welcome break from your coursework. Art is a budget-friendly hobby that doesn’t require expertise. If you prefer guidance, consider joining an art society on campus to meet fellow students and gain valuable tips and tricks.

Let Music Inspire You: Play an Instrument or Sing

Music offers a powerful outlet for creativity, allowing you to find harmony in your passions. Whether you’re a beginner or possess a natural talent, you can find a musical pursuit that aligns with your taste and aspirations. Consider taking up a musical instrument or attending singing lessons to develop your skills. For those with a knack for collaboration, joining a band, orchestra, or choir can provide incredible opportunities for personal growth and camaraderie. And if your budget is tight, fret not—YouTube offers a wealth of free tutorials to help you along your musical journey.

By engaging in hobbies during your time at university, you can make the most of your spare time and achieve a sense of fulfillment. Not only will hobbies add productivity to your life, but they also serve as avenues for networking and forming new friendships. Moreover, they provide an invaluable means of relaxation, allowing you to unwind and momentarily set aside your academic pursuits. Embrace the world of hobbies for college students in Phoenix and embark on an exciting adventure that will enrich your university years.

Posted on

How to Successfully Coexist with Your Annoying Roommate!

Annoying Roommate

Living with roommates can be an eye-opening experience. As the saying goes, “You don’t know someone until you live with them.” Whether you’re sharing a space with strangers or close friends, their annoying habits and quirks will inevitably come to the surface once you start cohabitating. But fear not! There are plenty of ways to deal with these situations and maintain harmony in your student accommodation. After all, if there weren’t solutions, every university student would be living alone, right?

So, let’s dive into some practical tips to nip those annoying roommate habits in the bud and avoid unnecessary conflicts:

Create a Rota

Yes, I know the word “rota” can induce yawns, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. Establishing a schedule that outlines each roommate’s responsibilities can bring order to your living situation. Amanda takes out the bins on Tuesday, Paul handles the dishes on Thursday, and Eric vacuums on Sunday. Instead of engaging in daily squabbles like, “You never do this!” or “I’m always doing that!”, consult the rota. It’s the wise oracle that will save you from resorting to professional carpet cleaning and help you keep your deposit intact!

Respect Boundaries

Even if you’ve known your flatmates for ages, remember that privacy is sacred. Give them space, especially if they’ve never lived away from home before. The initial months of university can be emotionally charged, and a little alone time can do wonders for recharging batteries. Also, be considerate when it comes to noise. Blasting music at silly o’clock in the morning won’t win you any popularity points. Invest in a good pair of headphones, so you can enjoy your tunes without disturbing your roomies’ beauty sleep.

Chip in for the Essentials

While it’s practical to buy your own personal items, some household essentials require a collective effort. Toilet paper, washing up liquid, bin liners, dish cloths, and cooking oil fall into this category. Consider creating a communal kitty where everyone contributes, or take turns buying these items. It’ll save you from countless arguments, I promise!

Communication Is Key

If you’re dealing with a particularly challenging roommate, don’t let the frustration simmer. Address the issue through open and honest communication as soon as possible. Bottling up your emotions will only make things worse, and who needs that burden in their life? Approach them calmly and let them know it’s time to talk. Share your feelings and offer suggestions on how they can contribute to a harmonious living environment. Don’t forget to listen to their side of the story too; it’s all about fairness, my friend!

Don’t Be Two-Faced

Whatever you do, avoid bad-mouthing your roommate to your best buddies. It will only fuel more distress and arguments if they find out. While discussing the situation with trusted friends can provide insights and strategies for dealing with it, be careful not to turn it into a gossip fest. Remember, the goal is to resolve conflicts, not create new ones.

We hope these tips will help you navigate the challenges of living with an annoying roommate. Your mental health is important, so don’t hesitate to address any issues related to rent, living conditions, or dirty dishes. If things don’t improve, perhaps it’s time to expand your social circle and make some new friends online. We even have a blog with tips on that—check it out now!

Now, armed with these strategies, go forth and conquer the realm of roommate harmony! May your living space be a sanctuary of peace and camaraderie amidst the chaos of college life.

 

Posted on

How to Choose a Student Bank Account

Hey there, future uni student! So, you’ve got everything sorted for your grand university adventure—uni choices, accommodation, and even a collection of pencil cases that would make any stationery addict jealous. But hold on a sec, you’re missing something crucial: your student bank account.

Now, I know banks can be intimidating. We’ve all seen those movies with massive vaults, men in fancy suits, and scary words like mortgages and interest rates flying around. But guess what? It’s 2017, and those scary banks of our childhood nightmares are long gone. Instead, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff in snazzy uniforms, and there’s usually a helpful person standing by in case you’re clueless about banking (which, let’s be honest, most of us are).

Every bank on your high street offers a student account, but with so many choices, how do you pick the right one? Well, we can’t make that decision for you, but we can give you some handy tips to help you choose the best account for your needs.

First things first, let’s talk about what’s important. You need to consider:

  1. How much overdraft can you get? And is it guaranteed? Overdrafts are like magical portals that let you borrow money from your bank without paying interest. It’s like getting a free pass! But beware, this 0% interest party won’t last forever. Each bank has its own repayment conditions, so make sure you know how quickly you’ll have to pay back that borrowed cash.
  2. Is there any interest involved? Nobody wants to pay extra money to the bank, right? So check if there’s any sneaky interest waiting to pounce on your innocent student account. If there isn’t, find out if they plan to introduce it in the future. It’s always good to stay ahead of the game.

Now, let’s talk overdrafts. Even if you’re clueless about banking, you’ve probably heard about these mystical creatures. Overdrafts are like your bank saying, “Hey, we trust you. Here’s some extra money to cover your expenses.” And the best part? Student overdrafts usually come with 0% interest. So, you only pay back what you owe—no extra charges.

But, my friend, remember that the 0% interest fun doesn’t last forever. Each bank has its own repayment policy, so make sure you know how quickly they expect you to pay it all back. If you miss their deadline, prepare to be slapped with some interest charges. And if you go over your overdraft limit, well, let’s just say the bank won’t be sending you a thank-you note.

Now, here’s a seemingly silly tip: location matters! Having a bank nearby can be a lifesaver. Imagine receiving a good old-fashioned cheque from your tech-challenged grandma or losing your card and needing to pop into a branch. Trust me, having a bank just around the corner can make your student life a lot easier.

Oh, and one more thing—beware of the freebies. Banks are eager to win over students because they hope you’ll stick around after graduation when you’re rolling in the dough. So, they dangle attractive freebies like railcards, vouchers, and gift cards to lure you in. But don’t let those shiny distractions blind you. Focus on the important stuff—the account itself. Look past the freebies and make sure you’re getting a good deal overall.

Choosing the right bank account can make your financial journey as a student smooth sailing. So, go on a little shopping spree, compare what each bank has to offer, and snag the best deal for yourself. You got this!

Posted on

11 Things You Need to Know About Doing a Postgrad Course

11 Things You Need to Know About Doing a Postgrad Course

So, you’ve got big dreams of pursuing a postgraduate course after your graduation. That’s awesome! A postgrad adventure is a fantastic way to dive deeper into a field you’re passionate about and boost your career prospects. But hold your horses, my friend. Before you dive headfirst into those applications, there are a few things you need to know. Here are 11 handy tips to guide you on your postgrad journey.

  1. Why are you doing it?

First things first, you need to figure out why you want to pursue a postgrad in the first place. Having a solid reason or goal will keep you motivated throughout the course and prevent confusion when you come out on the other side. Think about how a postgrad degree will help you achieve your future goals. Is it essential for career advancement or personal growth? If you’re just considering it to avoid employment or because you’re unsure of what else to do, it might be worth digging deeper and exploring your future prospects.

  1. Not every career requires it.

Listen up, folks. A postgrad qualification isn’t necessary for every career out there. In fact, there are very few career paths that require a postgrad as a prerequisite. If you’re aiming for a career in medicine, nursing, teaching, psychology, or anything within the science or research sector, a postgraduate degree will often be beneficial. But for most industries, it’s your attitude, work ethic, experience, personality, and determination that will propel you to the top, not just your qualifications.

  1. It can cost a pretty penny.

Let’s talk about the cold, hard truth: Postgraduate tuition fees can be a hefty expense. We’re talking anywhere from £9,000 per year to over £30,000, with the average fee sitting at around £11,000. And guess what? They can be even higher for international students. But fret not! There are funding options available, such as government loans, grants, bursaries, research council grants, scholarships from employers or institutions, and some universities even offer alumni discounts. Make sure to explore these options before jumping into a loan. Also, consider how you’ll repay the loan after your course, especially if you already have an undergraduate loan to tackle.

  1. It may boost your earnings in the long run.

Here’s the silver lining, my friend. Statistics have shown that having a postgrad degree can lead to higher earnings over time. However, if your chosen career doesn’t prioritize a postgrad, it’s unlikely to result in a higher starting wage. So, weigh the financial pros and cons and consider the long-term benefits before making your decision.

  1. It’s a networking opportunity.

Prepare to expand your professional network, my soon-to-be postgrad pal! Many former postgrad students credit their courses for the valuable contacts they made along the way. You’ll have access to professionals in your field who may open doors to employment opportunities down the line. But keep in mind that networking opportunities can vary between universities, so do your research when selecting your preferred courses. And remember, a significant chunk of networking can also come from being out in the real world—working, volunteering, interning, or gaining relevant experience.

  1. You can work and study at the same time.

Who says you have to choose between work and postgrad study? Many courses offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with a job. You can study in the evenings or on weekends, and some employers may even let you go part-time, take a sabbatical, or have study leave. This way, you can keep earning money while applying what you learn in real-life situations and advancing your career. Just be prepared—it can be exhausting, so it might not be the best option if you have other major commitments.

  1. A degree isn’t always necessary.

Believe it or not, some postgrad programs don’t require an undergraduate degree. Certain companies, professional bodies, and a limited number of further education colleges offer courses for postgrads that bypass the need for a degree. In these cases, you’ll typically need to demonstrate your subject knowledge and ability to get accepted. So, don’t let the absence of a degree hold you back if you’re interested in a specific postgrad program.

  1. Apply to multiple courses.

Remember the golden rule: don’t put all your eggs in one basket. There are no strict rules on how many postgrad courses you can apply to, so why not increase your chances of getting accepted by applying to more than one? Just keep in mind that each application process can be lengthy and require some serious effort. Stick to similar courses to streamline the process and avoid overwhelming yourself.

  1. Apply early, like really early.

Time is of the essence, my friend. For courses starting in September or October, you’ll need to submit your applications by June or July. We highly recommend applying at least six months in advance to give yourself ample time to sort out finances, accommodation, travel arrangements, and maybe even your visa. International students, this is especially crucial for you—plan four extra months in advance. Keep in mind that different courses have different start dates, so double-check with your course provider for specific deadlines.

  1. It’s a different vibe from undergrad.

Get ready for a whole new postgrad experience, and it’s not like your undergrad days. One common feeling among postgrads is a sense of loneliness, at least initially. Many of your friends will have moved back home or entered full-time employment. Staying in touch might be a challenge due to different lifestyles and heavier workloads. Postgrad courses also tend to have fewer contact hours, and class sizes are smaller. Don’t expect the same hype and excitement of undergrad Fresher’s Week. But fear not! There are things you can do to combat the postgrad loneliness. Connect with your fellow students early on, attend any postgrad ice-breaker events organized by your university, and if those aren’t enough, plan your own social gatherings. Coffee meetings, study groups, or a casual evening with a glass of wine can be fantastic ways to bond with your peers.

  1. Self-discipline is key.

Get ready to embrace your inner self-discipline guru! On a postgrad course, you’ll likely see your tutor only a couple of times a week, and even less during the dissertation period. That means you’ll have loads of time for private study. So, self-discipline becomes paramount for your success. If you’re the kind of person who needs external motivation, like a tutor pushing you, it might be a challenge to stay on top of your workload. But if you’re a self-sufficient individual who loves setting their own routine, this will be a breeze for you.

So there you have it, 11 nuggets of wisdom to help you prepare for your postgrad adventure. We hope these tips make your journey a little smoother. And hey, if you have any other tips of your own, we’d love to hear them! Good luck, future postgrad superstar!

Posted on

What International Students Can Expect in the UK

What International Students Can Expect in the UK

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about studying in the UK, huh? Well, let me tell you, despite the infamous drizzle, this place has got a lot going for it. It’s no wonder students from all over the world are flocking here. Let me give you the lowdown on what to expect (raincoats not included!).

Landmarks

First off, let’s talk landmarks. The UK is like a treasure trove of iconic sights that will make your jaw drop and your Instagram feed explode. From Buckingham Palace and Big Ben to the Angel of the North and Edinburgh Castle, this place is a visual feast. The Brits take pride in their history, preserving these landmarks so that future generations can learn and appreciate what makes this country tick.

Scenery

But it’s not just about the famous spots. The UK is also blessed with some breathtaking scenery. Get ready to be blown away by stunning landscapes that will make you feel like you’re living in a postcard. And the best part? You can easily explore these sights thanks to the fantastic public transport system in university cities. So, hop on a bus or a train and go on an adventure!

Transport

Speaking of public transport, let me tell you, it’s a student’s best friend here. It’s like they designed it just for us! Whether you need to go to class or explore the city, the public transport network has got you covered. And fear not, my friend, you’ll quickly become a pro at navigating it. Soon enough, you’ll be zipping around like a local.

Food

Now, let’s talk food. The UK may not be known for its Michelin-starred cuisine, but we’re a nation of foodies. Fish and chips may be our claim to fame, but there’s so much more to enjoy. Ever heard of a full English fry-up breakfast? It’s a glorious way to start the day. And who can resist a good old Sunday roast dinner? Plus, we’re always up for trying new dishes, so don’t be shy about sharing your culinary delights with your new friends. Food brings people together, and trust me, it’s an excellent ice-breaker.

Pubs

Oh, and did I mention pubs? The UK loves its pubs. They’re like social hubs where friends gather to chat, complain about their bosses, watch football, or even have a cozy date. For students, pubs are a big part of the nightlife in university cities. So, get ready to find your “local” and make it your go-to spot for the next few years. Just remember to drink responsibly!

Bottom Line

So, there you have it—just a taste of what the UK has to offer for international students like yourself. From jaw-dropping landmarks to stunning scenery, convenient public transport, delicious food, and lively pubs, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to embrace the rain and make some incredible memories. Cheers to your UK adventure!