My uni to-do list

  • Zoe (1)

    Hi, I'm Zoe

    I'm currently a second-year studying English Literature with Creative Writing. I remember how stressful the time before going to university can be, even once you secure your top choice! Hopefully, this will help you get things in order and relieve some of your stress.

  • Zoe - accommodation (1)

    Accommodation

    Booking your accommodation should be one of your top priorities before coming to university. It’s important to keep an eye out on your emails so you don’t miss any deadlines. To receive your accommodation guarantee, you will need to submit your accommodation application by the 30th June for UK Undergraduates and 31st July for International or UKI students. While booking the right accommodation for you is important, there will always be other options that the Student Living team can support you with before and throughout your time at the University of Birmingham.

I remember being so nervous meeting my flat mates, but I ended up being really close with them and I then lived with them for my second year too. If you’re feeling a bit nervous meeting your flat mates, join the Offer-Holder community to connect with people joining in September! You can bond before moving in and organise your plans for Welcome Week

  • Day in the Life Maisy at the Gym

    Gym

    I joined the gym in my second year of university; it’s been such a good way to take my mind off of everything. I especially love the fact that Sport & Fitness is so big and well-equipped, so it’s rare to have to wait to use a piece of equipment. There are different types of memberships you can purchase too. I got the 9 am-2 pm membership, and it was very affordable. Make sure to check it out along with the sports and clubs you can join if you’re interested.

    Find out more about Sport & Fitness

Student bank account

Once you’ve accepted your offer to study at Birmingham, you can access your 16-digit UCAS number. This will help you to set up your student bank account.

Before applying to any, check which benefits will be the most useful to you. For example, Santander gives out a 4-year Railcard or you may want the one with the best overdraft. If you already have a Railcard, you might want to make an HSBC account and get £100. There’s a variety of student bank accounts that offer different benefits so it’s a good idea to do your research in advance.

You can apply online to the bank of your choosing; the form should take around 10 minutes to complete and around 4 days to be approved. You’ll need proof of address, and a form of ID. Student accounts really help if you’re worried about needing an overdraft, just make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.

  • Zoe - dinner (3)

    Practice recipes

    Coming to university can be a big jump from home life! To prepare in advance, practice cooking for yourself or your family before heading off to university. There are lots of great, easy and budget friendly recipes.There is a series on the University of Birmingham's Instagram channel where students show you their favourite things to cook. These are beginner friendly recipes and have budget-friendly ingredients. Honestly, it’s also just fun and can be a great way to bond with your flatmates as you’ll be spending more time in your shared spaces! In the first year, we cooked Christmas dinner and it's one of my favourite (and most delicious) memories.

    Follow our Instagram page

Welcome Week and Freshers

One of the things I was unorganised with was Welcome Week! I’d suggest coordinating with the people you’re likely to spend time with, whether that’s the flatmates you met on the Offer-Holder community or if it’s people who are heading to the same university as you.

My other piece of advice is don’t be afraid to take some time for yourself. You won’t miss out on anything if you stay in and relax. If you’re somebody who doesn’t enjoy clubs or going out, there are a lot of sober fresher events in UoB. You can have board game nights with the Jenga and cards provided in each accommodation or put on a movie nights with some of your new friends.

There will also be a lot of on campus events and fairs to explore. And go to as many society tasters as your heart desires.

  • jewellery-quarter-buildings-and-green-clock

    Explore the city

    Also, it’s a great time to explore the city and surrounding areas! I’d suggest checking out areas such as Jewellery Quarter and Harborne. There’s plenty of coffee shops and restaurants that will take your fancy. There's also lots of green spaces and walks to go on so you can take a break if everything starts to feel overwhelming. Coming to university is a big shift so remember to be patient with yourself and give yourself breaks. Remember, that university is about being yourself – that way, you’ll find like-minded people!

There is a lot of information and advice on our Instagram, TikTok and website too! If you need additional support, there’s many portals to ask for help and information and you can chat to current students on UniBuddy.

I hope this helps you settle into university life better and get some of the essential things out the way before you can start immersing yourself in the university experience!