The thought of going off to university can be incredibly daunting, especially if you don’t know what to expect. They say that your uni years are some of the best you will ever have in your life, so having the right skills in place before you head off on your venture can ensure you are prepared and ready for the next chapter…
Know how to budget
Most university students have to budget their money in order to get by. It’s likely that you won’t have a ton of cash in your bank account, so scrimping and saving is incredibly important. Making a budget and sticking to it will mean that you are sensible with your money. You may be interested in purchasing a prepaid budgeting card which allows you to top up the card with however much you like each month, which can help keep you in control of your disposable income. Whether it’s for nights out, food or other day-to-day expenses, keeping your disposable cash separate from your rent and bills can benefit you enormously.
Know when to call it a night
When on a night out, it can be all too easy to get carried away. One drink can turn into multiple without you even realising, so knowing when to call it a night is another skill that will help you throughout your uni experience. One way to help you stay in control is by going to the cash point and only withdrawing an amount of money you feel comfortable with spending. Try to avoid giving into peer pressure and once you feel it’s time to go home, do so without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.
Picking the right accommodation
It’s really important to find accommodation that’s suitable for you, close to your campus as well as within your price range. As well as living on campus or privately renting a shared house, there are now some other options available to students looking for a touch of luxury in their lives.
Privately owned halls of residences offering en suite studios and rooms in shared apartments are increasingly cropping up in university towns and cities across the UK, and there are also companies that own and manage a portfolio of houses and student flats that are aimed at the student market. In Nottingham, for example, Almero Student Mansions provides a mix of beautifully restored Victorian properties and modern apartments, situated in some of the city’s best student locations.
Create a meal plan
If it’s your first time living away from home, no one can blame you for splurging out on all your favourite foods and treats. However, living a life of luxury comes at a price. To help save you money, try and get into the habit of creating meal plans, meaning that when you do a big shop, you can budget your money accordingly to ensure your cash goes further. One top tip is to never go food shopping when you’re hungry, otherwise you will end up buying unnecessary items!
Moving away from home can be equally exciting and daunting. Having an idea of what to expect before you arrive can give you the confidence you need to excel in your studies. Make sure you know how to budget, create a meal plan to save you money, as well as choose accommodation that’s suitable for you. Your uni experience will go by in a flash, so make sure to study hard and be sensible to ensure you have the best time possible.
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