Starting university can be as daunting as it is exciting. You’ve heard all about students living on a diet of beans on toast and working all hours to make ends meet but it doesn’t have to be this way. In a series of posts over the next few weeks I’m going to break down what I wished I knew before starting university from what to expect from the halls experience to making your last bit of loan last until the last day of term.

In order to maximize your first few weeks it’s good to do a bit of research on the area where you’re going to live. If you’re living away from home in a halls of residence it’s good to start preparing now. When you start doing a little bit of planning each week it will help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed in the days before you move.

What you might need in halls:

1) A washbag – if you’re sharing a bathroom with others it’s an idea to have a washbag to avoid you things going missing and also to ensure that the bathroom stays tidy. If, like me, you find yourself sharing a bathroom (3 showers, 3 toilets) with 19 others then it’s essential to use a washbag as you won’t have the option of leaving your toothbrush by the sink or your toiletries by the shower.

2) Slippers – this is useful if, again, you’re sharing a bathroom. When many people are sharing a bathroom you’re more likely to come across puddles of water. To avoid slipping use a pair of flip-flops or slippers.

3) Alarm clock – I missed my first 9am lecture because the alarm on my phone didn’t go off. It was a great way to make the worst first impression. Avoid this by having at least two alarm clocks. (especially during fresher’s week when you will have commitments in the morning for registration and late nights at fresher’s events)

4) A doorstop – the best way to come across as inviting is to keep your door open whilst you’re unpacking. People will find you more approachable and they may even help you out.

5) Lemsip/similar cold remedies – ‘fresher’s flu’ is unfortunately not a myth. Everyone gets it during the first few weeks for a number of reasons (lack of sleep, unbalanced diet, drinking too much alcohol and being in close proximity with one another in halls). Be prepared with a few cold remedies so that you don’t miss those all-important first lectures.

Hopefully this’ll give you a basic idea of what to expect. You may have already known this but the reminder won’t hurt. I hope you enjoy preparing for your first week in halls.