Living in shared accommodation during university can be both exhilarating and daunting. I remember my first year at Warwick, moving into the Cryfield townhouses and finding out I would share a kitchen and living room with 11 other students. At first, it seemed overwhelming, but it turned out to be one of the most enriching experiences of my university life. Here are some tips I've picked up along the way that can help you not just survive, but truly thrive in your shared living environment.
When applying for my first-year accommodation, I completed a questionnaire that asked about my daily routine and interests. I believe this survey helped me get allocated with other like-minded individuals. We ended up having a fantastic time together, which set a positive tone for the rest of my year. So, answer those questions with responses that are true to you. Honest answers could influence your living situation by matching you with flatmates who share similar lifestyles and interests, potentially leading to smoother and more enjoyable interactions.
Shared living requires a mix of respect, understanding, and communication. Recognise that your flatmates come from diverse backgrounds and may have different lifestyles or perspectives. Approach every interaction with openness and respect. Discussing expectations and setting clear boundaries early on can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. This mutual respect will be your foundation for a harmonious living environment. Additionally, embracing these differences can lead to a richer, more fulfilling communal life, where each member contributes uniquely to the shared experience.
Before heading to university, I hadn't yet mastered basic life skills like cooking, doing laundry, or keeping a place tidy, and it turned out, many of my flatmates were in the same boat. It's perfectly normal to feel a bit unprepared for the realities of living independently. Use this opportunity to learn and grow together. Collaborate with your flatmates to tackle these new challenges, whether it's experimenting in the kitchen, figuring out the laundry settings, or devising a cleaning schedule. Working together not only helps you pick up essential skills but also strengthens the bonds among everyone. Remember, you're all in this together, and helping each other navigate these new responsibilities can make your living experience much more rewarding and enjoyable.
Communication is key in any shared living situation. Encourage your flatmates to express their feelings and concerns openly. A great way to facilitate this is by organising regular meetings to discuss house responsibilities, issues, or even plan social activities. Creating a rota for chores like taking out the bins or cleaning communal areas can ensure that everyone contributes fairly, promoting a sense of community. Transparent communication also helps in adapting these plans as needed, ensuring that they remain effective and respectful of everyone's changing schedules and needs.
Your time at university is not just about academics; it's also about building relationships and creating memories. Make an effort to bond with your flatmates and take the time to get to know more about them and their interests. This is a great opportunity to learn about a new culture and language, or even learn a secret authentic recipe for a delicious new dish! Organise group activities, whether it’s a movie night, a group study session, or a quick grocery run. Encouraging inclusivity can also make shy roommates feel more comfortable and willing to participate. Remember, the quality of your communal life is based on the effort each member puts into making the shared accommodation feel like a home away from home. Frequent social interactions not only deepen friendships but also create a supportive living environment where everyone feels part of a community.
Living with new people in shared accommodation can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your university life. It teaches you about cooperation, respect, and the joys of belonging to a community. Embrace the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences and create a stable and harmonious living space that enriches your time at university. By following these tips, you're not just coexisting; you're learning, sharing, and growing together.
So, consider my tips and watch as your shared accommodation experience transforms into an enriching journey of making lifelong friends and memories.
Undergraduate student Esther Osazuwa shares what she loves most about campus life at Warwick.
Undergraduate Simran Bhambra offers key tips for choosing the right first-year accommodation for you.
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