Written by Callum Dinnett
Moving away from home is one of those experiences that essentially everyone in the world experiences at some point or another. Personally, I got my first taste of this last month, moving from my parents’ house to university accommodation. Going from conversations that I have had with other people in my accommodation and other members of the year, there is a common thread of emotions: worry about leaving home, about being able or, rather, not able to care for yourself, and fear of what new neighbours and flatmates will think of you is commonplace. Regardless of how much parents or guardians or elder siblings or even friends who’ve moved away from home assure you that there’s no reason for these fears, most still feel them. So, instead of saying you have nothing to fear, I will advise you not to let the fears get the better of you, and stop you taking the leap.
I would also like to make sure that people know that you will make mistakes, and things will go wrong at some point. What is important when this happens is to keep calm and approach the problem logically. With all the stress of moving, the smallest problem can seem as if it’s the end of the world, but all that’s needed is usually step back, take a breath, and look at the situation logically. Most problems can be solved by just taking a calm look at the situation.
Regardless of where you are moving from, and whether you started to preparing months, weeks or (hopefully not) days before you move, if you are moving into University accommodation, everyone living with you will be going through the same thought process. You can and will support each other as you get used to new responsibilities, and when there are darker days. This goes for both this year’s and any future freshers. I know I am writing this as a fresher, but you certainly learn a lot in the first few weeks. My advice is that, if you are struggling with homesickness or a particular task, make sure to see if any of your new neighbours can help, and also remember that your family is simply a phone, or video, call away. It is a bit of an overused idiom, but the statement ‘treat others as you want to be treated’ is a good motto to go by. Make sure to support others if they are struggling, because there will be a point where you are struggling and they will need to support you.
My final piece of advice is to make sure to enjoy yourself. Moving away is a crucial step in life, so it shouldn’t be a pain or seen as some kind of burden. Meet new people, form friendships and just try to enjoy yourself, as it promises to be a big adventure.
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And you are the one who’ll decide where to go.”
— Dr Seuss, ‘Oh, The Places You’ll Go!’
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