Before your move-in date, there are certain things you need to do – or will just want to do – to ensure your transition from home life to student accommodation life is as smooth as possible. This is a big step in your life, so give yourself credit for making such an amazing decision which will benefit your future!
Make a packing list
Moving into somewhere new is often stressful and overwhelming, although at Cityheart Living we try to make it as easy as possible for you – but you don’t want to add to the nerves by turning up and realising you’ve forgotten something vital like your toothbrush or a set of cutlery. Make a list of all the things you are likely to need for your new home, and have it with you as you pack. Tick things off as you go, and there’s no chance you’ll forget it.
Gather all the documents you need
When you enrol at university, there will be specific documents you need to ensure your registration can be complete and everything runs smoothly. The university will send you a list of what this is; get your documents photocopied and put them together in a clearly labelled folder – then make sure you know where said folder is. Or, if you’re bringing these documents digitally, make sure they are definitely there before you head off. These documents might include:
- Passport and/or driving license for photo ID
- Accommodation, university and course acceptance letters
- Student finance documents
- Vaccination history
Get to know your flatmates
If possible, try and speak to some of the people you’ll be sharing your student accommodation with. Our accommodation locations have bright and spacious common areas which you’ll be sharing with other students, and it’s nice to get to know a few of your future roomies before you turn up. It can be daunting when you meet new people, but if you find each other in a forum or Facebook group beforehand then it makes things just that little bit easier…
Set up a student bank account
It’s best to do this before you get to university, as it’s something you won’t want to be taking the time to do when you’re hanging out with new friends or trying to get your bearings in a new city! Student accounts have great benefits as banks try to win your business at a young age – because people rarely bother to change who they bank with. Student accounts often have interest-free overdrafts, or free gifts such as railcards. Shop around and see who’s offering the best deal to protect you financially during your time as a student.
Look into contents insurance
Student accommodation is a very safe and secure place to live – but you might be particularly clumsy and there’s nothing worse for a student than the unexpected expense of having to get your laptop screen fixed or your phone replaced. Scout out some cheap contents insurance (there are often student-specific deals available) to protect you, your wallet and your possessions!
If you are joining us at Cityheart Living this year, we are so excited to have you with us. Moving out is exciting and nerve wracking in equal measures, but hopefully these few tips have helped you prepare…