Moving to university in a new town can be both thrilling and overwhelming. If you are coming to Newcastle, then lucky you. This place is famous for its student nightlife, old buildings of importance and openhearted residents; it is an ideal mix of education quality and cultural diversity. Read this ultimate guide to make your move to Newcastle as smooth as possible so that you can easily adapt to the new campus life.
Accommodation Planning
On-Campus vs. Off-Campus
To start with, decide whether you want to reside on-campus or off-campus. It is convenient to find student accommodation in Newcastle near the campus which could have included utilities and Wi-Fi in the rent but can be expensive and less private. Private rentals or shared houses offer greater freedom, and different living environments, and can be cheaper as compared to the one above it. Nevertheless, they require greater work on bills and maintenance.
Research and Book Early
Start looking for your accommodation options in advance to get a better choice. Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are great for finding properties within walking distance from university campuses. For instance, such information is available on universities’ websites. When picking a place to stay consider its closeness to university premises, means of public transportation as well as nearby amenities including supermarkets as well as leisure facilities around you. If possible, visit potential accommodations to get a feel of the neighbourhood.
Important Papers
ID and Passport
Have a valid passport as well as possible student visa(s) in place where required. Beforehand, provide extra copies of your identification papers that you may safeguard both physically and electronically. Many times it will help if the authentic ones get lost.
College Papers
Keep all the campus papers like invitation letters, and admission slips among others within reach for easy retrieving. Such documents can be useful for instance when opening a bank account or registering with a GP.
Money Matters
Carry all bank statements, proof of funds, as well as any bursary or scholarship papers. These are very necessary in case you want to open a local bank account. Additionally, it is sensible to maintain electronic duplicates of these files to guarantee getting them whenever pertinent.
Finances and Banking
Start a UK Bank Account
Setting up a local bank account will help to simplify the way you manage your finances. Many banks have student accounts that come with special benefits such as no interest on overdrafts. Popular banks for students include HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds among others. Normally, proof of address, identity and student status are needed to open an account.
Budgeting
Develop a budget for efficiently managing your expenses. This includes factoring in rent, utilities, groceries, transportation costs, study materials and leisure activities. There are different budgeting apps such as Mint or Goodbudget through which you monitor your spending to remain financially stable. You need to watch monthly expenditures closely so that you can avoid going overboard.
Scholarships and Grants
Look into scholarships and grants offered by your university or external organisations. Such awards can significantly reduce the cost of studying and make more money available for other purposes in college. Be sure to check deadlines and eligibility criteria before applying for any scholarship or grant.
Health and Insurance
Make sure you are registered with a general practitioner (GP) in the area you have moved to as soon as possible because GPs are key when health services are needed. The NHS website offers an opportunity to get one nearby. Moreover, you must know the nearest pharmacy and their working hours.
Health Insurance
It is required that international students should obtain health insurance. Confirm whether your visa covers medical expenses through the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). In case this is not possible, they can decide to take up private health insurance schemes. Also, it would be prudent of you to walk around carrying a basic first aid kit and any drugs prescribed to your person.
Mental Health Resources
Settling in a new place may be difficult. Familiarise yourself with mental health resources available at your university. Many institutions provide counselling services, support groups and workshops for managing stress and anxiety among learners.
Packing Essentials
Clothes
Newcastle’s weather can be quite unpredictable, so prepare for it. Take warm garments, rain gear and also comfortable footwear. Do not forget to pack some formal clothes for occasions at the university or job interviews. Layering is the only way to remain comfortable in a changing climate.
Study tools
You will need your laptop, notebooks, pens and other study materials. Some courses may require special equipment or textbooks so you should check the course requirements. At the same time, a good quality backpack/bag for keeping your books is a wise investment.
Personal items
Include things that make you feel as if you are at home in your new place such as photos, posters and some of your favourite books. Ensure all chargers, adaptors and any personal care items are packed with you too. If there is enough space bring along some home comforts like a favourite pillow or small decoration piece.
Kitchen basics
In case you plan to cook, have a few kitchen essentials like a cutlery set, pots and pans. In many places, students live together and share communal kitchens but it can be convenient if one has own utensils. Do not forget to bring along basic stuff such as a reusable water bottle and coffee mug.
Academic Preparation
Course Materials
There are some colleges that give you a list of recommended readings or books to buy before the semester starts, if possible purchase or borrow these books beforehand and read them. Familiarise yourself with your course syllabus and any pre-arrival tasks early.
Online Portals
Be familiar with the university’s web portals where most of the information about courses materials, and timetables among others are located. This is inclusive of Blackboard and Moodle as popular ones. Logging in and exploring these platforms earlier on can help you keep things organised when the term begins.
Academic Support Services
Observe the academic support services available at your college. This may include writing centres, tutoring services, and library resources. It will make it easier for you to meet your academic obligations and manage stress if you are aware of where to get assistance from such facilities.
Public transport
Cities around the world have put in place efficient public transport systems such as buses and the Tyne and Wear Metro in Newcastle. Hence, it is advisable to buy a student travel pass which will offer you discounted rates on your travelling expenses. Also, be sure to know the routes and schedules to make commuting easier for you.
Bike riding
Newcastle is a city that has embraced cycling culture with numerous cycle lanes present. In case you like biking, bring your own or purchase locally available ones. Do not forget to acquire an excellent lock as well as a helmet for enhancing security.
Walking
Many of them are within walking distance of the universities in question making this option one that needs no further explanation. You can also take long walks around town so as to chance upon some secret spots while getting familiarised with your new surroundings.
Taxi apps
Such apps like Uber or Bolt may be downloaded for those occasions when there are no means of public transportation available anymore; thus, they can come really handy while going home late at night or carrying heavy luggage.
Introduction to Social Integration
Sign Up for Societies and Clubs.
Newcastle’s universities offer a variety of societies and clubs which cater for different interests; joining them will help you to make friends and get used to being a student. They include teams involved in games, hobby associations, as well as academic organisations.
Visit Freshers Week
This is the best time to meet new people, explore the campus, and participate in activities. Use this opportunity to start your life at university with excitement. Attend as many events as possible in order to maximise networking opportunities.
Discovering Newcastle City
Acquaint yourself with attractions in Newcastle. Some landmarks that can be visited are Tyne Bridge – Quayside, historical Castle Keep etc. A lively nightlife, diverse food options and many cultural occasions await you there. Exploring more will make it feel like home for you.
Volunteer Work and Part-time Jobs
Being part of a local community comes easy through getting involved in volunteering or securing a part-time job among other things. This is an excellent means of meeting different people while also learning some skills even if it means earning extra cash along the way.
Connection
Mobile Phone
Consider the possibility of having a local SIM card for your phone. Providers such as Vodafone, O2 and EE have got student friendly plans with lot of data and call allowances. This will make it easier and cheaper to communicate.
Internet Access
Most student accommodations come with Wi-Fi but if you’re in private rented accommodation, you might need to set up an internet connection. Compare broadband providers to get the best deals Reliable internet is crucial for your studies and staying connected with family and friends.
Social Media and Communication Apps
Stay in touch with your friends and family from home via social media platforms like WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom. These connections can help one cope emotionally as well as minimise homesickness.
Emergency Contacts
University Contacts
You can do well to have the phone numbers of your student support services, housing office and international office ready as they will help in case you need assistance.
Local emergency calls
Get familiar with local emergency calls. In the UK, for emergencies, it’s 999. Also take note of your embassy or consulate’s contact information which is beneficial in times of need.
Local Services
Take down important local services such as hospitals, police stations and pharmacies around you. Being aware of where to rush during an emergency saves time that would be used otherwise and minimises tension levels.
Conclusion
Being a student moving to Newcastle is an exciting journey with many novel opportunities and encounters. In order to make the move easier, and fully experience what it’s like being a student in Newcastle, follow this ultimate checklist or contact study abroad consultants who have good expertise in the same. This can make your work easier and better. Being well organised will help you get accustomed faster and profit from your stay in this amazing city. Congratulations you are at your second home!