Moving to university is a huge step in your life, and it can be a scary change. Here is a list of things I wish somebody told me before I came to university to make your move slightly easier.
You will make friends
I didn’t have the best relationship with my first-year flatmates, and at the start of the year it used to stress me out that I wasn’t going to make friends. However, I eventually did through events held by my accommodation and through my course. It can take time because everybody is nervous, but you will find your group of friends.
Shop at Aldi and Lidl
When I first started, I shopped at my closest supermarket for convenience which happened to be a Waitrose. This soon added up and my weekly shops were costing me up to £80. Scope out your closest Aldi or Lidl and make the journey. Although it is further away, I’m saving so much more money. My weekly shop now costs me around £27.
It can get lonely
Not every day at university is going to be a blast, sometimes it can get lonely. If your friends are all busy, you can start to feel alone in your room. When this happens, I like to Facetime friends and family back home, or go on a walk and listen to music.
Have some go to meals and keep your freezer stocked
After a long day at uni and studying, the last thing you want to do is come back and cook a complicated meal. Always keep your freezer stocked with quick cook items such as pizzas, or have a quick go to meal such as a pasta dish.
Don’t over pack
Before starting university last September, I went to Ikea, bought everything in the store and crammed my car full on move in day. This was so unnecessary as most of the things I bought haven’t even left the packaging. You don’t need a potato masher, a mixing bowl and your entire wardrobe.
Make the most out of the new city you’re in
You’ve moved to a brand-new city! Explore it and find out what it has to offer, find out where the best places to eat and drink are, take a scenic walk, and enjoy your new life!
University life can seem daunting at first, but once you are settled in and find a routine that works for you, you will have so much fun enjoying your new found independence.