The ultimate guide for settling in at uni.

Moving in weekends are here! So to support you, once you’ve moved in we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you settle into your new surroundings to kick start your uni experience.

Read your Important Documents

Read your Important Documents.

No doubt you will be inundated with documents before starting university and moving into your Host accommodation, make sure you read through everything thoroughly, so you know what to expect and when. With Host, a great place to start is the Information Booklet which contains just about everything you need to know about living with Host.

Budget

Budget.

Work out how much money you will have coming in and then work out what you need to spend money on to create a manageable budget. We get it; as soon as the student loan hits the bank account, it’s nice to hit the high-street or more likely ASOS. But, it’s important to stick to the budget. Read our recent blog all about student bank accounts.

Get Cooking before settling in to uni

Get Cooking.

Spend some time in the kitchen before you move in so that you have a few classics up your sleeve. This will help you maintain your budget and make friends with your new flatmates. Have a look at these easy but delicious recipes from Jamie Oliver.

settle in and Personalise your room

Personalise Your Room.

Your room is your own personal sanctuary while living with Host so make it feel more homely by adding your own touches, such as photos, your favourite bedding or a mini pot plant. Keep your room smelling fresh by treating yourself to a new reed diffuser (UNiDAYS are currently offering 20% off Rituals).

Facetime family and friends

FaceTime Family and Friends.

Starting university can be a big change, and sometimes you need that friendly and familiar face to chat to and add a bit of normality. A great way to do that is to facetime your family and friends.

Get to know your flat mates.

If you opt for a shared space, you will be living with others that you won’t already know. You will all be in the same boat and maybe a little apprehensive at first. If you arrive before your other flat mates, why not help them move in. It is also a good idea to start a group chat and you can plan a fun day trip to get to know one another and your new surroundings.

Set some rules after you've settled in

Set the Rules – Once You’ve Settled In.

Once you’ve got to know your flat mates take time to set some rules for cleaning, food storage and talk about how you will personalise your shared living space. The Host information booklet includes a page or two about living with others, so check it out.

Join clubs and societies

Join Clubs and Societies.

As well as the academic side of Uni life, there are lots of opportunities to get involved in social events and activities. Check out your uni’s student’s union and what events they’re holding during fresher’s fortnight. On-site our teams will also be holding resi-life events throughout our locations in the UK.

Get Support

Struggling to Settle In? Get Support.

Nearly all universities offer on-campus student support centres, which can help you with a range of things from homesickness and financial advice to mental health support. Check out the Wellbeing section on the Host website.

settle in and explore your new home

Explore Your New Home.

Your Host city will be your home for the next few years so get outside and explore the city and familiarise yourself with your surroundings. It will really help you when you’re trying to find your way around in the first few weeks.


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#HostEnvironmentalPledge.
Getting serious about the environment we live in.

To become more ‘environmentally friendly’, Host is launching the #HostEnvironmentalPledge campaign to encourage responsible behaviour and drive sustainability across our sites throughout the UK and Ireland.

It’s a simple campaign! For every percent we reduce our overall utilities (electric, water and gas) consumption by we donate to one of our nominated charities.

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Latest news

News flash! What do I need money for in uni?

You will need money for a range of things during your time in University, ranging from food and travel to accommodation and uni supplies. What you need will depends on your particular circumstances, but we have created an exhaustive list to ensure you can plan ahead and save for your university experience.

what do you need money for in uni

News flash! What is moving in day like?

You’ve packed everything that you can physically fit into your family car. And said goodbye (tearful or otherwise) to your friends back home. Pulling up to your new uni home will be a bit of a whirlwind. Between finding somewhere to park and what you will need to take into reception to check in on move in day. Move in day can feel stressful, but the main thing is that once it’s over and you’re in your new room – the fun can begin.

What is moving in day day - Students - Host
Host - Student and undergound
Student discount pizza Freshers

News flash! The best student discounts Freshers' 2024

Being a student can be a little expensive, especially when some find that their maintenance loans don't cover the basics and due to the cost of living crisis. So, be sure to make the most of your student discount while you can. We have been busy finding the best student discounts this Freshers for you. Take a look at some of the best discounts we believe you need to know about right now.