As a recent graduate, these are some things I wish I knew before starting university. Remember, everyone’s journey and experience are different so just remember to enjoy it!
Money:
You should apply for a student card! Student cards are great, they not only get you many benefits, but they are such a good way to help you budget. Make sure to look around at different banks and their benefits. For instance, HSBC gives you an interest-free overdraft of up to £1000, which could rise to £3000, however, Santander gives you a £1500 interest-free overdraft as well as a free 4-year railcard. It’s important to have a look to see which is the best bank for you. Having a separate, student account is always useful to put your student loan into and to pay your accommodation from. This allows you to separate your money and make sure you have enough to pay for your bills.
This brings me onto budgeting. Budgeting loosely is really beneficial, just making sure you have enough money aside to pay for your food, going out and anything extra you may need. This is particularly useful as your student loan comes in in three instalments, meaning you need to make sure it will last until the next one comes in.
Something I wish I knew more about before university was student loans. Student loans are very important. There are two types of student loans: tuition fee loans and maintenance loans. Tuition fees are paid directly to the university – you don’t need to worry about them! These pay for your full tuition, and everyone is entitled to them. Your maintenance loan is the one that is paid into your bank account – this helps pay for accommodation and anything extra. Your maintenance loan amount is affected by your parents / who you live with income. Everyone is entitled to a maintenance loan but the amount you get varies. It’s important to apply for your student loan in advance, to make sure you get paid on time. It’s also important so you know how much you are entitled to, to make sure you have enough money for your accommodation.
Last note – don’t worry too much about money, your overdraft is there for a reason – don’t feel bad about using it, that’s what it’s there for!
What to bring
When packing to move, you do not need to bring everything. I remember packing so much, all of my winter gear, summer clothes, extras just in case. But you don’t need it all. Most university accommodation has limited storage, so when you bring everything, you struggle to fit it all! Something I ended up doing was changing out my seasonal clothes when I went home between term times, this made sure I had enough room for everything, and I was prepared for the new seasons.
Some key things I packed for university; pictures and decorations – this helped make my room feel homely and made the transition of moving out easier. Not only did I bring in aspects from home, but I also made my room feel like my personal sanctuary and a good, nice place to wind down. Another thing I would recommend taking is ‘unique’ kitchen wear. I brought pink plates and black cutlery! This made sure that none of my things were mixed up, and I knew what mine was. But make sure they’re not expensive – as it will probably be broken. Remember, you will probably be sharing a flat with 7 other people – things are likely to be misplaced or broken.
Friends and Flatmates
When coming into university, remember everyone is in the same boat. Everyone is nervous and wanting to make new friends. So put yourself out there! Try say yes to everything (obviously that you’re comfortable with) and get out of your comfort zone. It’s always best to try something at least once – you never know, you might find your new favourite activity and best friend! But don’t be afraid to say no, know your own limits and enjoy your time.
Making friends is scary for everyone, but it’s not as intimidating as you might think. You just need to put yourself out there and don’t be afraid to be yourself. The best way to meet people is by going out; go to all the induction week activities for your course, go out to freshers’ events and join societies. And one thing most people don’t mention, you don’t need to get along with everyone and that’s okay. Throughout your time at university, you will meet a lot of people and some people you might just not gel with.
Joining societies is a great way to not only meet friends, but to also get out of the flat. It’s a nice way to build a routine, meet some great people and do something you love. Whether that’s chatting about Taylor Swift’s new album, competing in ultimate frisbee or bonding over your love for anime – there is something for everyone, so don’t be afraid to try it.
Your flatmates are most likely the first people you will meet. Most universities have Facebook groups for freshers – this way you can see what events are on and can try to meet your future flatmates. This is a great way to connect before you’re actually there and to meet like-minded people.
Final Note
My final note is just to say, be yourself and enjoy your time. It will fly by! Your university experience will be unique to you, don’t compare it to others. So, be present and enjoy every moment, say yes to every opportunity and make the best memories!