You there! Yeah, you! Moving to University soon and worried about how it’ll go? If so, fear not. This article will give you the lowdown on everything, from how many prized possessions to take to what it’s like first meeting flatmates.
Wait, Did I Forget my Pans? The Packing Palaver
Deciding what to pack for University can often seem a daunting task. But it needn’t be, if you focus on packing what you need. That’s right; your collection of early-noughties furbies can stay at home for now. Pack your pans, books and other necessaries, and you’ll at least have the tools with which to whip up a meal and begin your studies. Having said that, don’t expect yourself to have brought everything. You’re bound to forget something, but you’ll soon find yourself pooling resources with your flatmates. So don’t worry, it’s all part of the slap-dash experience of starting University!
Settling In– Meeting Flatmates
So you’ve successfully navigated the treacherous waters of getting all your stuff to your new flat/house. But what about meeting flatmates for the first time? For me, this was what I worried most about when thinking about the start of University life, and perhaps that is also true of you. But worry not as, after a few awkward handshakes, you’ll find friendship starting to flourish when you all quickly realise you’re together in the same boat. Simply take the time to get to know your flatmates, and even if you’re not kindred spirits you’ll be bound to have some things in common.
Help! What if I don’t like my flatmates?
However, if you find yourself in the rare position of having nothing in common with your flatmates, then don’t panic. When thrown together with people we don’t know there is always the possibility, no matter how small, that we might not gel with them. However, there are solutions! If you’re in University Halls then get in contact with the Warden, who will put you in a flat in which there is still an empty room, or else will have you swapped with another individual who wishes to move from their flat. And bob’s your uncle!
Throw Yourself In! Keeping the Home Blues Away
You’re now finally at University in a flat full of people you like. But what’s this? The home blues have struck! But you needn’t spend your first few weeks pining in your room while caressing a photo of your home. Defeat the home blues by really getting stuck into the activities and events on offer during Welcome Week. Check out the Welcome Fair, for instance, and sign up to loads of societies. Go out with flatmates. Explore the city. You’ll soon carve out a life for yourself in Manchester, and meet some great people in the process!
So always remember not to worry! You’ll have a great experience moving to University and you’ll be sure to make some fantastic memories in Manchester.