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Are you starting university this September? If so, have you started thinking about ways you can get prepared and organized? Like anything in life, preparation is key- and so if you spend a little time getting yourself and life into the best possible position you can then you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle later on. The summer will have come and gone before we know it, and ‘back to school’ time will be here. So these are things to think about and start doing right now.
Learn some basic life skills
Moving away to university for most people is the first taste of proper adult independence. Unfortunately, it’s when many realise they don’t have as many life skills as they thought. When you’ve always had your parents to do things for you, or at least help you out, it can be a bit of a shock to the system. Before you move away, making sure you can plan your meal, cook some simple recipes, work a washing machine, iron and other basic household appliances is no bad thing. Do you know how to travel around a city you don’t know- how train and bus timetables work, how to find your stop and generally how to be an independent young person? Sure, you can call your parents and Google things if you get stuck but knowing you have at least a few simple life skills mastered can give you a real confidence boost before you set off for university. In the months leading up to you leaving for university, start putting these things into practice. Try to rely on yourself more and challenge yourself to see that you can handle different situations that might arise.
Get your money in order
The student years are all about being broke- making money stretch and getting by on a shoestring budget is all part of the experience. But just because you don’t have much money doesn’t mean that keeping an eye on your finances is not important, in fact, it makes it even more important. You need to know what bills you should pay and on which dates. How to pay them, how to budget for them. How to make a little money stretch further and generally how to deal with your finances. This is an important step when you reach adulthood, and going to university definitely enables you to start practicing these skills. Resist the urge to take out credit cards and loans and other credit which can complicate matters, lead to overspending and mess up your credit score.
Work on your style
As a young adult out in the world independently, you’ll want to make your mark and show who you are. And one way to do this is with your personal style. University is a fantastic time to have fun with your looks, try out new things and figure out who you are. You’ll want some comfy clothes for lectures and studying but dont forget about stylish pieces for socialising and nights out. Accessories can make or break a look, consider things like these chronograph watches from Nordgreen to statement jewellery, trendy bags, shoes and more. Finding bargains on second hand sites like Vinted and Facebook Marketplace allow you to add new pieces to your wardrobe without spending much money. Not to mention thrift stores which are likely to be a firm favourite as a student!
Going off to university is a rite of passage for any young person, it’s an exciting time but a time of huge transition. Spend time getting organised, think through the points above and set yourself up for success. Not just in your studies but for life as an independent adult for the first time.
