Some things can’t be learned from the internet, siblings or friends, careers expert at school or the TV, you have to live these through yourself, like tossing rocks at your housemate’s window at 4 am when you forgot your keys, just how long you can sustain without going to the laundry room. Good or bad, these things that you discover in the first month of the university will stay on for life.If it sounds really incredible, it probably is. That compact stack of energy drinks in the corner shop, the outrageously inexpensive monthly gym membership or the remarkable part-time job posted on the university website, you stumble across lots of stuff in the first month of university that hooks your attention instantly – only to drop you down, back to hard reality when the euphoria dissipates and you had time to actually read the fine print.
Firstly, the room at student accommodation becomes your extension. Having the precise decorations is the key. Students can make easier the new life and alleviate the strain on parents. Your new room at the Jesmond student houses wouldn’t feel like home until you fill it with your personal stuff. You can take a tip from veterans and pack a big trunk with all the knick-knacks that can make your room feel special. Leave behind anything to do with modern art or the ‘Keep Calm’ posters. Everyone has those. Wearing your heart on those walls can probably alienate that charming person you met at fresher’s week. Avoiding obvious clichés by books, artworks, and trinkets dotted around can make it apparent that you are an appealing individual. A trunk can be used as impromptu chair or table, when all the new buddies come down for drinking games.
Some gap-year conversation-starters can actually be of use at the Jesmond student houses. Pack that pretty Mexican blanket, the baseball glove from America and the cushions from France. They can make your room different, and promote conversation on something interesting. Avoid marshalling friends through the 6,000 photos of your bungee-jumping in Australia, even if it’s incredible. Dining is part of the fun. Arriving with just one plate, fork, knife and two spoons, one coffee mug can send out the incorrect message. A few big flashy dishes and serving spoons for the communal ‘noodles’ dinner are vital. A big teapot with a plenty of cups is a good idea too. It is also vital to know a few recipes, simple and delicious barbecue chicken can probably save billions of young lives.