Tips for a Smooth Transition
Your New Home at Goldsmiths
Moving into your new university home is a huge step, and we know it comes with a mix of excitement and nerves. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Here at GSU, we want to help you make your new home comfortable and your university experience unforgettable. Let’s dive into some handy tips for getting along with your roommates and for setting up your new room.
Roommate Tips: Living in Harmony
Shared Space Etiquette
Whether you're in student accommodation or a sharehouse, good etiquette is key. Be considerate in shared areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges. Clean up after yourself and respect communal spaces. Unfortunately, there will be no fairy godmother cleaning up after yourselves :)
Respect Boundaries
Everyone needs their own space. Be mindful of quiet hours and study times. People will have different study, work, and sleeping hours, and you need to be considerate of this. It’s all about finding a balance that works for everyone.
Open Communication
Start off on the right foot by having an open chat with your roommates. Discuss your expectations and boundaries early on. A simple conversation can prevent a lot of future headaches. If issues arise (and they probably will), address them directly and calmly. Listen to each other’s perspectives and work together to find a compromise. It’s all part of learning to live with others.
Share Responsibilities
Keep your living space clean by sharing chores. Create a rota to track who's doing what.
We recommend using an app like Splitwise to keep track of communal expenses like toilet paper. This helps keep things even and fair.
Build a Positive Relationship
Get to know your roommates! Plan a movie night, cook a meal together, or explore campus events. Building a bond can make living together much more enjoyable. Remember, this is all a learning experience. Most students are moving out for the first time, and it may take a while for people to adjust.
Creating a Comfortable Study Space
Find Your Study Sanctuary
It’s important to find a cosy corner in your room to claim as your study sanctuary. If you’re in student accommodation, you’ll already have a desk setup. If you’re moving into a sharehouse, make sure to have a place to study away from your bed. Remember, your bed is for sleeping!
Lighting Matters
Natural light is your best friend. If you can, set up your desk near a window. And for those late-night study sessions, invest in a good desk lamp to save your eyes from strain.
Stay Organised
A clutter-free desk equals a clutter-free mind (well moreso). Use organisers, shelves, or even just a few boxes to keep your study materials in order. Trust us, it makes a world of difference.
Decorating on a Budget
Moving away from home and living with other people can be nerve-wracking, so it's important to make your room your safe haven. Decorate your room however you’d like (just no damaging the room itself – no nails, painting, etc.).
Personalise Your Space
Print out photos of friends and family, hang some art to personalise your room, buy some plants to make the space more lively.
Check Out Local Gems
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Charity Shops: Explore local charity shops for unique prints, pots, and knick-knacks.
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Deptford Markets (Thurs-Sun): Several stalls sell flowers and plants along this strip at affordable prices.
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Ikea: They have a handy page with all the uni life essentials you may need. If you’re local pop over to Ikea in Greenwich to find everything you need or if you’re lucky find one of their Student Essential starter kit boxes - hurry these fly out the door around freshers!
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B&M and TKMaxx: They have a great selection of affordable decorations, arts, and crafts to make your room feel warm and inviting. Purchasing prints can be pricey so why not create your own art with some oil pastels and paper?
Adjusting to university life is a big step, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comfortable living environment and building positive relationships with your roommates. The GSU is always here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help or just want to chat.