Getting ready to move into University accommodation?
We know the whole moving process can be pretty stressful but don’t panic – our Residential Advisers (the team that run our UoC accommodation) have come up with some top tips to help you out:
- You’ll find a list of things you should and shouldn’t bring on page 8 of the Resident Guide – make sure you also check pages 9 and 10 for information on regulations and guidance.
- Check your University emails for a link to your Residential Life Teams group, so you can find others sharing your accommodation.
- Look out for us in the blue Residential Life tops – we’re here to help.
- Take some time to explore and get to know your surroundings.
- Bring photos of friends/family and make your room feel like your home from home.
- Don’t bring everything you own, only buy essentials and explore charity shops for good deals once you get here. This means you’ll save money and it’s more sustainable.
- Organise your room while you can, it may get messy later.
- Say hello to your flatmates – they may be feeling overwhelmed so don’t lock yourself away, invite them to hang out, cook for them, try be the initiator and make stuff happen.
- Smile and say Hi – don’t wait for an invitation to hang out. This will also help you to gain more confidence.
- Get involved in as much as you can, Residential Life, Chester Students’ Union (CSU), Sport and Active Lifestyle, and Student Services have loads of activities for everyone and it’s a great way to meet people. Check out our Events pages for all upcoming events.
- Get involved in Sports and Societies and get to know the people you live with at the beginning of term, it’s easier to make friends and connections when everyone is a fresh face. The best way to do this is to spend time in shared spaces outside and in your accommodation, such as a kitchen/common room.
- Make sure you tidy and clean up after yourself in any communal kitchens or bathrooms.
- Always use the extractor fan and keep kitchen doors closed when cooking – your housemates will not be happy if you set the fire alarm off!
- Get to know your Residential Advisor.