Things to make the move to uni easier
SAYING goodbye to mum and dad and hello to a new, independent you? Moving out of home for the first time requires planning — and now is the time to get started.
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IF you’re on the count down until you can move out of home and to uni, you might be feeling excited, anxious and more than likely, completely unprepared! Before you start ticking off the days, now is the time to get prepared.
Your university years will be some of the best times of your life — make your impending move a less stressful ordeal with these tips. And hold on tight — #unilife is amazing!
1. Write a packing list
The idea of packing your life into boxes isn’t appealing at any stage of your life — procrastination is never far behind, ready to lure you into doing something more fun. Ask a family member for help or a sibling who has already experienced a move — they’ll offer a rational, unemotional opinion on what to take and leave, and why you really don’t need to take all your stuffed toys to your new home (although judging from a recent Bachelorette episode, just take them all with you to avoid a teary breakdown later in life).
2. Say hello to your inner domestic god/goddess
If you’re not domesticated, moving out is the best motivation there is — an 18 year old who relies on their mum for clean socks and jocks just ain’t that attractive. If you’re not already fully versed with the inner workings of a dishwasher, washing machine, oven, shower, loo or anything else in the house, ask mum and dad for guidance around how to operate, care for and repair and, while you’re at it, decode all those weird washing machine and dishwasher settings.
3. Set up your bank account
Get your bank account sorted before you leave for university, or revisit the account you currently have to ensure it’s a good option. NAB and Westpac have accounts specifically for university students, while ING offer no-fee accounts.
4. Work out your budget
Before you start splashing the cash on pub quiz nights and weekend trips, draw up a budget for your first term at university (or for the year if you’re motivated). You know the drill: deduct all the essentials (rent, bills, Myki top up, course costs, and food) and what you’re left can then go into savings or on frivolous, fun things like parma night. Having the bank of mum and dad to rely on if things get hairy is a great comfort, but becoming independent means not using them as your default.
5. Learn about your new city or area
Moving to a new place can stir up a mixture of emotions — if you’ve feeling a little down about leaving your family home, try to look at the positives. Read up about the university area — local hot spots, markets, and must try cafes and pubs. If you have a particular interest, check out local meet ups or clubs and societies at uni.
6. Make your CV shine
Moving to a new city to study can often mean seeking employment. Brush up on your CV and get applying before the semester starts. There will be a lot of students in the same boat as you looking for work, so ensure you’re in the running with a well-written, typo-free resume.
7. Learn to cook
You’re either comfortable with pottering around a kitchen or you’re not — if you’re the founding member of team not, don’t be scared off learning a few basic dishes — think of it as survival rather than the MasterChef auditions (no one wants baked beans and toast six nights a week). Newbies should start with some simple recipes that will build confidence — a basic spag bol or pasta bake. If mum or dad can’t guide you, there are some good student cooking blogs which list easy and cheap meal ideas — check out the Healthy Hangover http://thehealthyhangover.com/ and The Slender Student http://www.theslenderstudent.com/
8. Get a health check
Book an appointment for a routine check-up with your GP and dentist before you leave home. If you have a medical condition which you manage yourself through medication ensure you have enough supplies to last until you find a new GP or return home on your first visit. You may also want to ask them about doctors and dentists in your new area — perhaps they can offer colleague recommendations. Check out the services on offer at your university, too — The University of Melbourne, La Trobe and RMIT have their own medical clinics. There are also a number of medical centres in the CBD who offer student services — check out Melbourne Student Medical Centre on Lonsdale Street which is a bulk billing practice.
9. Start essential reading
Get a head’s start by reading about your enrolled courses, the assessments, and start working your way through the essential reading list. It might sound incredibly nerdy, but uni is all about being prepared and organised. Get ahead now and you won’t need to do it later on.
10. Ask for help
Never be too proud to admit you’re struggling — there is always someone who will be there to help. If you don’t want to talk to your parents about the problem, visit student services and ask them to point you in the right direction. Whether it’s academic, financial or personal, there are appropriate resources available to students it’s just a matter of finding the right one.
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