The first few days and weeks of life at university can be made much more pleasant with a little bit of advance preparation. With that in mind, let’s run through a few of the things you’ll need to remember!
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Valid ID
You’ll need to be able to prove who you are at various stages during the first few days. This means bringing along either your driver’s license, or your passport. The latter tends to be preferable, especially since you’re going to be IDed whenever you go out, too.
Documents
You’ll need your course acceptance letter, along with any finance and scholarship documentation. If you’re taking medication, then you’ll need a prescription so that you can pick it up from a local pharmacy.
Essentials
If you’re going to be living in dorms, then you’ll need all of the items you need to function and live. This means your laptop and any electronics. Ethernet cables, USB memory drives, and games consoles might all be called for. What’s really important during the first few days is having access to power and the internet – so make sure that you have a selection of USB charging cables.
Also worth considering is cookware. To get the best from life at university, you’ll want to learn to cook – so make sure that you have the appropriate equipment. That tends to mean a decent pan and a few utensils. If you’re sharing accommodation, then bring something that you won’t mind sharing.
A chef’s knife, chopping board, a mug, a bowl and a plate are all critical. You might throw in a non-stick pan and a saucepan, too. Spatulas, tongs and ladles are difficult to do without, and you’ll definitely need cutlery.
Make a list of all of the items you need and check everything off as you go. Make sure that it’s all packed securely – you don’t want knives floating loose in your luggage.
Also essential is all the stuff you’re going to be sleeping in, and all the items you’ll use in the bathroom. Your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and razors are all critical. The rest you can buy yourself.
Do your research
To settle into the new location, you’ll want to do your homework and learn where everything is. Find out where all the local amenities are, and where you might expect to pick up a part-time job to supplement your income.
If you get into a tight situation, financially, then you might need a quick student loan from a short-term lender. Identifying the best of them in advance can be very useful. A better idea, however, is to make a plan for your spending, and stick your budget ruthlessly.
