10 Ways To Prepare For University This Summer

1. Explore the area

Unless you’re not moving very far from home, you may not know your new area very well. Now is a great time to get familiar with it. Have a look at your accommodation as well as places you’ll likely visit often and the bus routes in between.

2. Start budgeting

It may sound boring but saving money now and learning to budget is important if you want to save yourself stress in the future. There are a lot of apps that give you discounts because you’re a student so it might be worth having a look at those.

3. Order a railcard

Travelling can be expensive in the long run. If you’re going to be going between home and university by train, a railcard could save you money every time you buy a ticket. Some student bank accounts give you one for free.

4. Open a student bank account

A student bank account could help you budget throughout the year. Some accounts come with a free overdraft. Look at comparison sites for the best offers or higher limits. Some come with an NUS Extra card or railcard.

5. Learn to cook

Living by yourself might be the first time you have to cook for yourself. It may seem daunting but cooking can actually be fun. Learn some basic recipes and maybe even your favourite meal. It means you won’t have to live off meal deals.

6. Do the washing

Laundry might be completely new to you but it’s time you learnt how to use a washing machine. You don’t want your clothes getting smaller or changing colour. You may also need to find out where the laundry room for your halls is.

7. Look at gyms in the area

It’s important to stay active and healthy throughout the year. Whether you’re a gym buff or you just want to go every now and then, have a look at the most convenient gyms for you.

8. Get organised

While you enjoy your summer, it’s important to keep a routine and plan what you’re going to do. Make sure that you’ve done what you need to for your accommodation and make a list of what you need to pack.

9. Read around your course

It might be a good idea to get familiar with the modules you’ll be doing. Some courses may even have a reading list which could help you get prepared for your summer.

10. Get ready for freshers’ week

The first week of university might seem scary but it is also going to be fun if you make the most of it. Have a look at what will be going on during freshers’ week and make some friends through groups on Facebook.