Starting University can be one of the most exciting – but also one of the scariest! – times in your life. For most of us, it’s the first time we’re living on our own and having to handle adult responsibilities. It often comes as a shock just how many things don’t just happen automatically (thanks mum!). <br> <br> We’ve created a list of a few things that can help you find your feet a little bit quicker, and make sure you’re staying healthy and organised. <br> <br>
1. Quick-cook kitchen appliances
A lot of students have a very poor diet in their first months of Uni. Some people can’t cook, some people don’t want to, and some don’t have either the time or the money to cook healthy meals. Buying a simple set-and-forget kitchen appliance could be a lifesaver. Depending on your eating habits, the best option may be either a George Foreman, a rice cooker, a slow cooker or an air fryer. These will all make it easier to cook healthier and tastier food with less effort. <br> <br> Before plugging it in, check your Uni’s rules, as some of them don’t allow electric appliances in students’ rooms. If so, make sure to only use it in the kitchen. <br> <br> <br> <br>
2. Clotheshorse
If you’re living somewhere where paying to do your washing is your only option, it can be tempting to just pay the extra to put it in the dryer. But it’s an additional cost that can add up quickly, and it’s actually not great for your clothing, either. You’ll find that you can cut your costs in half by hanging to dry, and your clothes will last you longer, as well. <br> <br> We've found this one from Argos which will do the trick. <br> <br> <br> <br>
3. Big wall calendar
The biggest mistake students make is thinking that they will be able to keep track of all their assignments by sheer power of memory. A digital calendar will be really helpful, as you can enter deadlines on the fly. You can also create personal deadlines for first drafts and revisions. <br> <br> If you really want to stay on top of things, having a visual representation of the weeks ahead will be a game-changer. Getting a wall calendar where you can outline classes and assignments. You can colour code different assignments and classes, and seeing how much time you’ve got left to work on things. Top tip – assignments almost always take longer than you think, so try to give yourself more time than you think you’ll need! <br> <br> This one on Amazon is only £6.99, but look out as some societies that you can join at the university have their own calendars that they give out for free! <br> <br> <br> <br>
4. Additional storage boxes
Space is at a premium in student rooms, so anything that will help you keep on top of things will make an immediately obvious difference. Smaller storage boxes can be placed on top of wardrobes or under a bed and are a great option to keep yourself organised. The less space you have, the harder it is to keep everything tidy, so additional storage will help you in more ways than one. It can be difficult to stay focused in an untidy room, so by staying organised, you may also find your studies easier. You’ll also find that if you stay organised and take good care of your items, you’ll be able to use them for much longer – your wallet will thank you for that one. <br> <br> We've found these under-bed storage boxes and these multi-functional stackable organisers to keep your room de-cluttered. <br> <br> <br> <br>
5. Your Caxton Card
Saving the best for last, our final piece of advice is to get a Caxton Card! Budgeting can be very hard to do, especially if you’re getting your maintenance loan paid out at the start of each term. While you may have had pocket money before, you’ve likely not had to handle household expenses before. <br> <br> By using your Caxton Card, you can load an amount at the start of each month that you know you have to stick to, reducing the risk that you’ll blow your budget. <br> <br> <br> <br>
Finally, if you’re in doubt about whether or not to get certain items, remember that it’s better to under-pack than to over-pack. For most items, you can always go back to your parents house later and get what you need, or buy it in a local shop. Relax, take stock of what you really need, and most importantly – enjoy your studies! <br> <br> Going to Uni abroad? Caxton offers low rates on international transfers, on a regular basis or as and when. Contact our advisers on 0333 123 1815 for a confidential chat about your needs. Remember that you can also use your Caxton Card for fee-free spending in the UK. Apply for yours today, or top up your existing card.