Blog by Guest Author: UniAcco.com

Heading off to university can be a scary experience for many reasons. For some students, it could be an exciting time, but also nerve-wracking for many other students. That’s why settling into your new student accommodation quickly and effectively is so important. Knowing that you have accommodation lined up is vital, but it’s also essential that it becomes a home from home. After all, home is where the heart is, right? Here are some of the best tips on settling into your new student accommodation.

• Get in touch with your flatmates before you arrive at your student accommodation. If you have a friend who wants to study with you, UniAcco can accommodate you and your friend at the same property!
• Join Facebook groups to get insights on what it is like to study abroad. If you are studying in the UK then join our Facebook group.
• Strike up a conversation with your new flatmates right away. Having a good rapport with your flatmates is important while settling into your new student accommodation.
• Check out the events calendar that will be left in your kitchen or room and sign up for some of the activities as a group.
• Go out for a meal or a drink together to familiarise yourself with your new city.
• Work out a schedule for cleaning and taking bins out. It’s better to do this early and get it out of the way. This can be a fun exercise if done with the right spirit.
• Decide with your flatmates on which Freshers events you want to attend. This is one of the best tips on settling into your new student accommodation.

Once you have nailed down the basics, you need to keep the following things in mind. Ensure you follow this for settling into your new student accommodation well.

Look After Yourself

Since you are going to be all by yourself in a whole new living environment, it is important you take proper care of yourself. Late nights, all-nighters, hangovers, takeaways and full English breakfasts can take their toll on your health. Try establishing some good eating habits and workout programmes right from Day 1. Adopting a healthy lifestyle will help with your studies and your overall well-being.

Stay Safe

We’re not just saying this because of the devastating effects of the pandemic but because it is important. Ensure that your student accommodation is completely secure with 24/7 CCTV surveillance, secure access, key fob entry system, 24/7 on-site staff and more. Make sure you follow all the protocols in place to make sure the accommodations are safe for both the residents and staff. This is one of the most important tips on settling into your new student accommodation.

Manage Your Finances Well

One of the most important skills you will learn as an international student is money management. Have a rough approximation of what you’ve got to spend each week and try to keep to it. One way to combat the high cost of studying abroad is by making the most of special student discount cards.

Keep On Top Of Your Coursework

Try your best to strike a good work/life balance so that you are in control of your studies. Speak to your professor or course representative if you need any help with your coursework. If at any point you feel overwhelmed by studies, talk it through with a friend, and if needed, take the assistance of the university counsellor.

Don’t Pack More Than You Need To

Packing can be tedious, but unpacking can be a total nightmare, especially if you are in a whole new environment. This is why you should avoid bringing too much to your new student accommodation. Carry only essentials as most student accommodations provide you with saucepans, cutlery, toiletries and even bedding packs.

Stay In Touch With Your Family

Don’t be fooled that you are all alone in a new country. You will always have your family for support. Make sure you keep in touch with your folks at home as they’ll constantly be wondering how you’re getting on. It’s also worth staying in contact with friends from home. You could also arrange for them to come and visit you from time to time.