Okay, so you’re leaving for university in Manchester, possibly leaving behind your parents, and you’ll probably spend at least your first year living in a resident hall close to your campus. If you follow a few simple rules and advice, you can have a terrific experience using this practical and time-tested route to independent living.
Organize yourself
It makes sense to take the time when you first arrive to deal with the things that can slip your mind in the drive to get out and enjoy yourself because moving into halls can initially seem daunting. You might not know this, but if you bring a TV, you’ll need a personal license since the shared one won’t cover you.
Purchase a marker pen and a pack of labels. Though it may sound silly, identifying your belongings will increase the likelihood that they will stay with you. Even better, purchase one of those UV pens and put your information on your more priceless possessions. This is less of a deterrent than a way to find your goods in the event that they are stolen.
As quickly as possible, ascertain whether you have a cleaner that is hired to come around and how thorough they will be. If you want to make the most of this service, be sure to know when they are scheduled to come and have a quick look around before they arrive — even if this just entails moving your messy pile from the floor to the bed. It’s unlikely that your room will be cleaned if you leave your entire wardrobe on the floor. The community kitchen will follow the same rules. Although you will be expected to clean up after yourself, as friendships develop you could find it more convenient to share the cooking and cleaning duties with other obedient parties. Consider getting a mini-fridge for your room so you can keep milk there and brew tea without getting up from the couch. Of course, you can also use it for food storage.
Additional advice for apartment dwellers
If you have trouble establishing friends, just leave your door open for the first few days you are home. More outgoing kids will soon stop by to say hello and help you feel at home. Although the majority of your neighbors will be trustworthy and honest, you can never be too vigilant because a negative experience might ruin the remainder of your time there. Always take the time to lock your door if you go outside. A good balance is required at all times, so be approachable and accessible without being naive.
Never be afraid to seek guidance from staff members or student wardens if you are unsure of anything. They are available to help and will quickly ease your concerns or, if necessary, lead you to more specialized aid.
Overall, living in the residence halls is a lot of fun, but what if you would rather move away from campus right away? There is another choice.
Private rentals
If living in residence halls feels too similar to your “day job” there is another choice. Any university city will offer a superb range of privately rented student housing for its new residents; whether you’re searching for a bedsit, flat, or shared house, you should have plenty of options. All of the main street letting agents will be properly regulated and assist you in finding the ideal home.
You might enjoy living at off-campus Student Accommodation Manchester with more experienced, older students, or you might make some new friends who share your preference. You’ll have a decent chance of negotiating administrative fees if several of you approach an agency at once, though it’s also worthwhile to try this if you’re going it alone. If the agents haven’t found anything for you yet, smart advice is to keep in touch with them frequently to keep them on their toes. Being proactive will give you the best opportunity of acquiring the property you want most because they will have many clients to serve.
Enjoy your time as a student since it’s a great opportunity to get ready for the next stage of your adult life, whether you choose to live in dorms or private housing.
While looking for privately rented student housing, it is advisable to utilize a reliable letting agent.
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