Moving away to start your university experience can be challenging, so we've put together some steps to make the change as easy as possible.
Starting university may be the most daunting thing you'll ever do. But these 8 tips will have you uni-ready in no time.
1. IKEA trip
Nothing beats the excitement of a big trip to Ikea on a Sunday. Who knows whether you'll need three doorstoppers and six toilet roll holders? Better put them in the basket anyway just in case.
2. Plan for Fresher's Week
Fresher's Week is the time to really cut loose from living under your parents' roof. Knowing what events are on ahead of time can really help you make the most of your first week of freedom.
3. Join a group chat
There's nothing worse than showing up at a new place and not knowing anyone. So why not skip the awkward introductions by joining a group chat? Most universities have social media pages for applicants to ask questions, and often individual users make smaller groups for different courses or dorms.
4. Find used books and materials
Textbooks are expensive, but don't let a tight budget affect your learning. Look for used copies of your course textbooks on second-hand book sites, because who knows, someone may have kindly left their notes in there.
5. Talk to an expert
The best way to get ready for uni is to find someone who really knows what they're doing. Whether it's an older sibling or a friend-of-a-friend in their second year, they might have some nuggets of wisdom that you'd never have thought of.
6. Learn to cook
As easy as it sounds to live off Pot Noodle and baked beans, your body (and your flatmates) definitely won't thank you. Start off with something simple like a stir fry and soon you'll be whipping up dishes that will make Gordon Ramsay jealous.
7. Learn to budget
When that maintenance loan hits your bank account, you may be tempted to blow it all in one go. But budgeting effectively from the beginning will mean you can avoid the stress of stretching your last 50p as far as it will go.
8. Polish your CV
Many people find that getting a part-time job during their studies is a great way to make their student loan go a little further. If that's not for you, finding employment during your long summers can also help give your finances an extra boost.
