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9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Joining University

9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Joining University

Hey, you incredible achiever! You’ve conquered the ups and downs of secondary school and scored the grades to make it into your dream university. We’re buzzing for you!

We can imagine the whirlwind of emotions you’re experiencing right now. From envisioning yourself strutting through the campus, making friends, to that glorious moment when you rock that cap and gown at your graduation—it’s all within reach!

But hold your horses for a moment, let’s take a step back and focus on the present. There’s a lot to consider once you’ve chosen your university and your student accommodation. The first few months of university life can be a bit bewildering, but don’t fret, we’re here to lend a helping hand.

We’re your go-to experts in all things university (because, well, we’re a student accommodation company!). So, we’ve compiled a list of five things that students generally wish they knew before embarking on their university journey. Trust us, this knowledge will be like a secret weapon in your arsenal.

Independent Living: The Reality Check

Remember when you daydreamed about the freedom of living away from your parents’ watchful eyes? Well, brace yourself, because independence comes with responsibilities. Say goodbye to having your laundry done, meals prepared, and lunch packed. You’re in charge now, my friend!

In fact, you might find yourself missing the cozy comforts of home when you’re knee-deep in dirty laundry. But fear not, we’ve got a solution. Why not start by learning a few basic recipes and mastering some household chores? Or at least figure out how to whip up a simple meal and operate a washing machine. Trust us, these skills will come in handy, and you’ll be the master of your own domain.

Money Matters: Don’t Be a Loan Ranger

Ah, money—the eternal struggle. Learning how to handle your finances will not only impact your student life but also your future adulting adventures after graduation. As a student starting university, you’re now responsible for managing your own bank account and, more importantly, your student loan.

But hold your horses! We’re not suggesting you blow your entire loan in the first week (as tempting as it sounds). Budget wisely and save for when you truly need it. Remember, you have to cover your accommodation, food, laundry, and those unforgettable nights out.

Think about it, do you really want to cancel a night out because you splurged on that designer bag? We didn’t think so. Some students find it helpful to have a part-time job alongside their studies, and it’s a great way to make some extra cash and meet new pals. Just don’t go all-in with a full-time job or you might find yourself juggling too much.

Flatmates: The Good, the Bad, and the Messy

If you’re living in shared student accommodation, brace yourself—there will be times when you won’t exactly click with everyone. And that’s okay! You’ll get along with most of your flatmates, but there might be one or two who get on your nerves.

Don’t stress yourself out trying to please everyone you live with. Trust us, it’s not worth it. Your new friends are just as excited as you are to dive into the student life. So buckle up for the adventure, whether it’s dealing with a messy flatmate who can’t do the dishes or a party animal who rocks the late-night dance floor.

Textbook Troubles: No Need to Break the Bank

Picture this: you’re faced with a daunting list of textbooks, some costing hundreds of pounds. But fear not, there are ways to get your hands on the essential reading material without breaking the bank.

First off, your university library is your best friend. You can borrow books for the duration you need them, and just make sure to return them on time, or the library staff might give you a friendly nudge. Additionally, your university might provide online access to a vast collection of e-books and resources.

Believe us when we say this will save you loads of cash, leaving you with more moolah for that epic night out. If you do need to buy a textbook, check out sites like eBay and Facebook Marketplace for second-hand options. Your wallet will thank you!

Deadline Dilemmas: Procrastination Is Not Your Friend

Now, we’re not here to tell you how to handle your deadlines, but let’s just say leaving everything until the night before is not a recipe for success. Trust us, you’ll end up with a messed-up sleep schedule and subpar work.

Instead, try tackling your assignments in small chunks, well in advance. It’ll make your life so much easier and enjoyable. Plus, you’ll have time to perfect your work and avoid those dreaded all-nighters.

First Year Fun: It Matters More Than You Think

Sure, your first-year grades might not count toward your final degree classification, but that doesn’t mean they’re insignificant. Building a solid foundation in your first year sets the stage for success in the years to come.

Don’t be that student who says, “Oh, I wish I knew that!” or “Nobody told me it would help!” We’re telling you right now, getting good grades from the start will make second and third year a breeze. So, buckle down and study hard—you’ve got this!

Homesickness Happens: Reach Out

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of your studies and activities, but don’t forget about your family and closest friends. They’re your support system, and they’ll be there for you when you feel homesick or overwhelmed.

A simple call, a quick FaceTime session, or a thoughtful message can work wonders. And guess what? It’ll also ease your family’s worries, knowing you’re doing well. Remember, you’re not alone in feeling homesick—many other students are in the same boat. Acknowledge your feelings and reach out for help if needed. You got this!

Freshers Week: Party and Pace Yourself

Ah, freshers week—the ultimate temptation to go all-out and make a lasting impression on your new friends. But here’s a little secret: pacing yourself is the key to survival.

Don’t try to impress everyone on the first night, or you’ll end up nursing a killer hangover. Take it easy and remember, you also have induction week activities to attend. Balancing both is essential.

And hey, don’t blow your entire budget during this week. There will be loads of events and temptations, but managing your time and finances wisely is the way to go.

Think Ahead: Societies and City Exploration

It’s never too early to start thinking about the exciting opportunities that await you at university. Research different societies and clubs you might want to join. Your student union website will be a goldmine of information.

But it’s not just about on-campus activities. Take the time to explore your new city as a student. Find out about local activities

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UK University Life and Mental Health: Getting Help

Student mental health

University life can be a rollercoaster ride. Alongside the joys of coursework and exams, you also have to deal with financial woes, relationship troubles, family pressure, homesickness, and a bunch of other demands. It’s like a juggling act gone wrong! Feeling down, stressed, and anxious every now and then is totally normal. In fact, you’re not alone because a whopping 78% of students have reported mental health issues in the past year. But hey, if these symptoms persist or start interfering with your daily activities, it’s time to seek help.

Now, let’s talk about the signs that something might be amiss:

  • Feeling blue and down in the dumps.
  • Being more anxious and restless than usual.
  • Struggling to see any light at the end of the tunnel.
  • Losing interest in life altogether.
  • Saying goodbye to motivation like it’s an outdated fashion trend.

And if you notice any of the following outward signs in your friend or classmate, they might be going through mental health problems:

  • Suddenly shedding pounds or gaining them like a sumo wrestler in training.
  • Becoming the unofficial workaholic of the year.
  • Skipping lectures and deadlines as if they’re optional (spoiler alert: they’re not).
  • Transforming into a hermit, avoiding social interactions like a pro.
  • Embarking on a not-so-magical journey of substance abuse.
  • Battling with sleep like it’s a WWE match.

Now, let’s move on to where you can get the support you need:

  • Friends and family – Sometimes, just sharing your feelings with a trusted soul can bring an immediate sense of relief. It’s like releasing a burden and realizing you’re not alone. Plus, they might have some wise words or funny anecdotes to lighten the mood. Friends with benefits, indeed!
  • Student-run groups – Some universities have these amazing student-led groups or services where fellow students provide support to those dealing with stress or depression. Sure, they might not have fancy degrees, but hey, sometimes a listening ear from someone who gets it can work wonders.
  • University Counsellor – Most universities have qualified professionals who offer free and confidential in-house treatment or counseling services. Check out your university’s website for more info. They might even have a Mental Health Advisor who can hook you up with support like time off or extensions. It’s like having a personal cheerleader in your corner.
  • Online – The internet isn’t just for memes and cat videos (although those are important too). There are online self-help services like NHS Choices’ Moodzone and the Students Against Depression. Who knew you could find solace in cyberspace?
  • Psychologist or Psychotherapist – These fancy titles might sound intimidating, but they’re just professionals who can help you dig into the roots of your unhappiness and worries in a safe environment. They’ll also equip you with nifty coping techniques and skills. It’s like therapy, but with a dose of humor thrown in.
  • NHS Counselling or Therapy – If you’re in the mood for some good ol’ NHS counseling or therapy, you can refer yourself. Look up psychological therapy services in your area to see what’s available. And if you’re not sure where to start, have a chat with your GP. They’re the experts in “doctor stuff” and can point you in the right direction.
  • Voluntary Organisations – There are plenty of voluntary organizations out there that specialize in helping people. Whether it’s MIND or CRUSE for bereavement or the Samaritans for when you’re feeling down and desperate, they’re there to lend a helping hand. Think of them as the superheroes of the mental health world.
  • A&E – If you or someone you know is facing a life-threatening medical or mental health emergency, head straight to A&E or call 999. The staff there will take care of your immediate needs, both physically and mentally. They might even have a team specifically dedicated to bridging the gap between mental and physical healthcare. Talk about multitasking!

No matter who you reach out to, remember to be honest and open about your feelings. Describe them in your own words, no thesaurus required. Don’t worry if you don’t know what’s causing these emotions or if you think your problem is too big or too small. Every concern is valid, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you need a little extra support, bring a trusty sidekick with you—a close friend or family member. Together, you can face anything that comes your way.

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8 Tips to Manage Time Better: College Life

Tips to manage time better

We all know that college can be a stressful time. You’ve got classes to attend, exams to study for, friends to make, and just a teeny bit of time to relax and unwind. It’s like trying to fit a hippo into a Mini Cooper – not an easy task!

If you find yourself wishing for more hours in a day (and maybe a time-turner like Hermione Granger), worry not! I’ve got some tips to manage time better and still have time for fun and self-care. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Create a Calendar

Don’t be caught off guard by surprise papers or family dinners clashing with your study sessions. Get yourself a calendar and mark down all your upcoming deadlines, exams, social events, and other commitments. Stick it somewhere you can’t avoid seeing it every day, like on your desk or in your planner. If you’re a digital enthusiast, go for options like Google Calendar or Outlook Calendar, and make sure it syncs with your email for extra efficiency.

Set Reminders

Once you’ve got your calendar sorted, set yourself reminders to stay on track. Remind yourself to complete study guides, schedule meetings, and anything else you might forget in the whirlwind of college life. Use alarms on your phone, jot things down in your planner, or set alerts on your digital calendar. These reminders will save you from dropping the ball when things get crazy.

Build a Personalized Schedule

Remember, your day-to-day is as unique as your fingerprint. Take into account your classes, work shifts, study sessions, chores, and social engagements when creating your schedule. Think about your personal rhythm too. Are you a morning person? Then tackle your to-do list early on. If you hit an afternoon slump, give yourself a guilt-free break or catch up with friends. A schedule tailored to your needs will help you make the most of your time and prevent laundry disasters.

Use Tools That Work For You

Just like your choice of shoes, your organizational tools should be a perfect fit. Some folks love physical planners and paper, while others prefer going digital. Find what suits you best. Consider using planners like Papier or Moleskine for long-term deadlines, and try apps like Asana or Trello to schedule your day down to the hour. For note-taking, bullet journals or apps like Notion and Evernote can keep everything in one place.

Prioritize

Let’s face it, sometimes there’s more on your plate than you can handle. Take a few minutes to evaluate your priorities. Figure out which deadlines are most urgent and how much energy you have. Tackle simple tasks first to get them out of the way and ease the pressure. And don’t be afraid to say no or postpone some things. Your friends will understand if you need to hit the books before a challenging exam.

Make Time to Have Fun (and for Yourself)

Time management isn’t all about work, work, work. It’s crucial to prioritize your mental well-being and have a little fun. Schedule time for activities you enjoy, whether it’s biking along the river, hanging out with friends, or simply catching up on sleep. Knowing you have relaxation time ahead can give you peace of mind during stressful periods.

Find Support

Remember, you’re not alone in this time management adventure. Team up with an accountability partner or study buddies to keep each other on track. Let your roommates know when you need some space for that important paper. And don’t forget about your school’s academic resource center. They’re there to support you and guide you when you need a helping hand.

Be Realistic and Flexible

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs. Sometimes things won’t go as planned, and that’s okay. When you’re making your calendar and setting priorities, be realistic about what you can accomplish. Leave some buffer time for unexpected situations. Time management isn’t about being rigid; it’s about giving yourself room to adapt.

So there you have it, my friend. With these tips, you’ll be juggling college life like a circus performer in no time. Remember to stay organized, prioritize, and give yourself a break now and then. You’ve got this!

 

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10 Things You Need to Know Before Joining University

Ten Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting University

You’ve slogged your way through secondary school and managed to achieve the necessary grades for your chosen university. What a buzz!

We bet you feel a full range of emotions – right?

Maybe you’re already picturing yourself walking through the uni’s campus, socialising with friends and the day you receive your degree whilst wearing the coveted cap and gown…whatever you’re dreaming of, it’ll soon be reality.

But wait a minute, let’s back up a bit and go stick with the present.

There’s lots to think about once you’ve decided on where you’re going and which student accommodation you’ll be living in.

Your first few months of university life might be confusing, but that’s why we’re here to give you a helping hand.

We’re the experts in all things uni, y’know, since we’re a student accommodation company?

So, we’ve compiled a list of five things that (generally) students wish they knew before starting university!

1. Prepare For Independent Living

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For years, you might have been raring for the independence of living alone, with none of your parents meddling in your affairs.

However, independence is not something you’ll enjoy if you haven’t prepared for it.

Forget having your laundry done, dinner prepped and your lunch packed, this new way of life will leave you to fend for yourself.

As a matter of fact, you’ll probs find popping home for a weekend is like living in the lapse of luxury! You won’t take it for granted ever again.

So, in order to prepare, why not try learning a few new recipes and house chores? Or, at least understand how to cook simple meals and use a washing machine…maybe that’s a good start?!

It may not seem like much fun, but we promise it’ll help massively when you move to university.

2. DON’T Blow Your Student Loan!

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Learning how to handle your money will not only affect your student life but will also impact how you handle your money as an adult after graduation.

As a student starting university, you now have the freedom of living away from home and handling finances off your own bank. More importantly, your student loan.

And no, that doesn’t mean splashing your loan in the first week…as much as we know you’d love to spoil yourself!

We advise you to budget a little and save your money for when you really need it.

Don’t forget you literally have to pay for everything, such as your accommodation, food, laundry and funding your nights out.

Now think about it, you wouldn’t wanna cancel a night out ‘cos you’ve blown your money on the latest designer bag – would you?

Some students find having a part-time job alongside their studies helps them manage their wages. It’s a fab idea and can even be a great way to make some new pals.

We wouldn’t suggest having a full-time job as you might struggle to balance your course and lifestyle.

3. Annoying Flatmates Alert

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If you’re living in shared student accommodation, then you need to prepare to not like everyone.

Mainly, you’ll get along with most of the individuals in your flat, but there might be the odd one or two that just do your head in (and that’s okay!).

Don’t put pressure on yourself to like everyone you live with, ‘cos you’ll begin to feel like you’re the issue if you do.

Your new friends are just as excited as you to begin the student life! Just prepare for what’s to come, such as a messy flatmate who doesn’t wash up or a party animal who’s up till early hours of the morning!

4. You Probs Won’t Need To Pay £££ For Your Reading List.

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Some of your books online will cost hundreds of pounds and it’s worth knowing that you don’t have to pay that much when starting university.

There are so many other ways you can get a hold of textbooks you need for your course.

Firstly, your library will have a huge stash of books, so why not just hire it for the period you need to use it? Oh, and make sure to take it back ‘cos you don’t want the library staff on your back.

They will also have an online library which you will be given access to at the start of the year. From here, you can search to see if it’s available to be read online.

Honestly, this will save you SO much £££ that you’ll be able to book that night out with your extra income!

If you do need to buy a course book ‘cos you can’t get it online, then deffo search around on Ebay and Facebook Marketplace for them second hand.

5. Forget Leaving Your Deadlines Till The Night Before

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Well, it’s your personal preference how you decide to tackle your deadlines before starting university, but just don’t leave them ‘til the night before…please.

Not only will you regret it, you’ll end up with a completely messed up bedtime routine and a crappy piece of work.

You’re best prepping a while in advance of deadlines and doing little bits here and there.

It’ll just make your life so much easier and way more enjoyable.

6. First Year Doesn’t Count (But That’s No Excuse!)

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Honestly, it might not count towards your degree classification, but it sure has a massive impact on your academic ability and knowledge.

We bet you’ll feel way more prepared for second and third year if you get the foundation set when starting uni.

Don’t be one of those students that says ‘oh, I wish I knew that’ or ‘no one told me it would help’ – you heard it here first, so go get those good grades!

7. Homesickness Is Real

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While it may be easy to get caught up in your new study load and activities, it would be helpful to keep your relationship with your family and closest friends strong.

There will be times when you will feel homesick and alone while you juggle through multiple projects and exams, and the best comfort can come from knowing that you have a strong support system behind you.

You may not know it, but your family might also be worrying about how you are doing, and a call from you can also ease their anxiety, knowing that you are okay.

Even simple things like giving them a quick facetime or sending a little message. You’re bound to feel better in yourself if you do, so do it for your mental health and for your family’s sake.

Don’t feel alone if you’re feeling homesick, there’ll be so many students who’re in the same boat as you! It’s important to acknowledge and get help ASAP!

8. Pace Yourself During Freshers Week

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Oh gosh, now this is a biggggg one!

Don’t try to impress your new friends on the first night, honestly, you’ll only end up being bed ridden with a sore head.

Induction week will be happening alongside freshers, so making sure you pace yourself so you can head to uni the next day is essential.

It’s also suggested to not spend too much money during this week. There’s going to be so many events on and it’s important you manage your time well.

9. Think Ahead

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It’s never too early for you to think and plan for the starting university.

Why not begin researching what societies you might like to get involved in? Your student union website will be super helpful for this.

Or, you could even look around at activities to do in your new city as a student!

10. Start Getting Excited!

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Now you know exactly what you need to smash your way through university, it’s time to start getting excited about your first year!

Soon enough, you’ll be heading to your student accommodation and saying goodbye to your childhood home.

This new chapter in your life is super exciting, so soak it in as much as you can! Most people who’ve been and done uni will be super jealous of you, so prepare to live the life everyone dreams of.

We hope you’ve learnt a lot from our blog – 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting University! To help you out even further, we accept custom orders on academic projects.

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Moving In to Your Student Home – Tips and Hacks

Move In to Your Student Home

Moving into your student home is an exciting milestone, but the process of actually moving in can be stressful and tiring. Whether you’re relocating from a nearby location or a long distance away, there are a few strategies that can make the process easier for you.

Color code your boxes by function: Instead of cramming items into boxes randomly, pack them based on their intended areas in your student home. For example, keep all bathroom items in one box and kitchenware in another. To make it easier, use different colors to label each box according to its function. This way, you’ll know exactly where each box belongs, save time when unpacking, and reduce the chances of losing items.

Efficient packing saves space: While color coding may require more boxes, you can maximize space by packing efficiently. For instance, instead of using bubble wrap, you can wrap fragile items like glasses and mugs in kitchen towels to save space. By optimizing your packing, you’ll have more room for important items and potentially require fewer boxes overall.

Use a foldable sack truck for moving boxes: One of the most challenging aspects of moving is physically transporting the boxes from your vehicle to your room, especially if they contain heavy items like TVs. Investing in a foldable sack truck can make this task much easier. These portable metal structures are designed to wheel boxes and reduce the strain on your body. They are commonly used in warehouses and can significantly speed up the moving process.

By following these tips, you can streamline the moving-in process to your student home, save time and energy, and ensure a smoother transition into your new living space.