With your school days now fading into a lovely distant memory, why not be productive over the mammoth summer break and consider how you can prepare for the next chapter? From avoiding packing too many pairs of jeans to getting the lowdown on your future roomies, read on to get yourself in the fresher frame of mind…
1. Have a clear-out
Hiring out a van to take all your worldly possessions to halls in first year isn’t worth it – trust me, I’m speaking from experience. This summer is the perfect time to take stock of what you have, what you think you need, and what you’ll actually take to university.
There is a saying that we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. Whether you make the most of the free listing weekends on eBay or try out the new Instagram-lookalike Depop selling app, you can build up some extra cash for Freshers Week and thin out your wardrobe.
Better yet, get out the bin bags and donate your clothes to your local charity to make way for the influx of clothes which will soon build up thanks to your new-found student discount.
2. Stock up on stationery
In order to avoid bringing everything and the kitchen sink, it is worthwhile to have a look at information from your future halls of residence about what you may need to take, from kettles and microwaves to mini fridges.
Once you’ve sorted out the necessities of pots and pans, you can turn your focus onto the best part of your studies – new stationery. Depending on your course, you may be studying two other subjects alongside your chosen degree. That means that you should really buy at least three new jotters, notepads and sets of pens to differentiate between each subject – just to be safe.
While you’re at it, you could be one step ahead of the game and purchase some nice highlighters for exam season. You can never have too much stationery – it’s a student fact.
3. Research clubs and societies available
Get a head start before you are bombarded with flyers during the Sports and Societies fairs by having a look at what is on offer on the website of your prospective campus. Make a list and find yourself in the desirable position of knowing which sign-up stalls you want to make a beeline for when term begins. The less time spent wandering about at fairs means more time can be spent in the queue for free Freshers Week pizza.
4. Reach out to future flatmates
Search for the name of your halls on Facebook or on a student forum. You might be able to find other prospective flatmates who are looking to avoid that awkward first encounter in the shared kitchen. This can be especially useful if you’re moving away to somewhere completely new and are hoping to make some friends to cling onto during Freshers Week.
5. Make the most of your time at home
With the expanse of the summer holidays currently seeming endless, you are probably itching for the independence that is a few months away. While you’re looking ahead to the future, remember that you’ll start to miss some of your home comforts. You’ll soon see, however, that having your pets at your side, cooked meals and of cours your doting parents around is a total luxury, so make the most of it while you still can…
