As university approaches, you may be wondering what to bring and what to expect when you arrive. Moving away for uni can be stressful, but to help lighten the load, here are a few tips to help get yourself ready for this new chapter in your life:
1. Decide what to bring
You may get the temptation to go out and buy everything that you could possibly think of. But you need to think carefully about what you’re going to need and don’t be tempted to overpack - read our guide to the essentials.
2. Connect with your university on social media
Follow your university’s official Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. It will help you feel like you are a part of the community before you even get there, and keep you in the loop with news and updates ahead of freshers’ week.
3. Sort out a student bank account
Look at the student accounts that have been rated the best by students. Many offer you incentives for joining, such as a free student railcard or an interest-free overdraft of up to £3,000.
4. Learn how to save money
Money doesn’t grow on trees, and the bank of Mum and Dad cannot be relied on when you’re living on your own in a completely different place. You’ll need to budget the amount you spend each week to make sure you last the first term, and set up budgeting apps and supermarket loyalty cards to help. Check out our top tips for student living on the cheap.
5. Look at the modules for your course
Going through the modules for your university course will help you decide which options you want to take in the future, and help you to plan your work, meaning you know exactly where you stand on the first day of your course.
6. Don’t panic!
When thinking about starting university, you may get nervous or worried about the new challenges it may bring. However, remember that everyone else is in the same position and there are loads of new, exciting experiences to look forward to. Good luck!
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