Student checklist
Wednesday 19 September 2007
It's nearly that time of year when thousands of new students head off to university.
Make sure you look like an old hand with our guide to remembering what you need to get by.
Enrol with it
Even though your uni has offered you a place and you've accepted through UCAS, you'll still need to 'enrol' when you get there. You'll also be given your NUS card. You'll need a couple of passport photos and some forms of ID.
Your birth certificate or a driving licence should do the trick, but check with the university's admissions officer before you go, just to make sure that you have everything that you need.
Your uni should send you a full list of what you're expected to bring with you nearer to the start of term.
Music is the answer
Pack as lightly as you can; the chances are that you'll want to give yourself a total makeover once you get to uni so leave behind clothes that you don't wear that often. If you can't live without your music, get yourself a small ghetto blaster to take with you rather than lugging your huge stereo system to your halls. Or better still, put all your music on an MP3 player.
Not my type
Most universities like you to type assignments, but it's probably not a good idea to take your PC with you in your first year. Most unis have access to computers where you can do your work and surf the net, but rooms in halls can be quite small; there just won't be room for everything you own! If you want to take your laptop, be sure to get it insured!
Safe and secure
If you are taking valuables, it might be worth getting your stuff insured. Call your new uni and get them to send through some info, or take a look on the web and see if you can get yourself a good deal.
Cash flow
Take some emergency funds with you for the first few days in case your loan doesn't come through straight away. You should make sure that you've got a suitable bank account where your loan can be paid into. Many banks do special accounts for students, with all sorts of incentives. Make sure you shop around and get the best deal for yourself. Head to the students' union for advice if you're not sure who to go for.
Licensed to view
If you're taking a TV to your halls, you'll need a TV licence. Licensing inspectors check student halls regularly, so make sure you don't get caught out. It ca be pricey for a licence, so you might want to consider having a year off from the TV.
Meal deal
If you're going to be living in self-catering halls or accommodation, try and teach yourself to cook a few basic dishes so that you won't be living off frozen food or takeaways. Check out Sam Sterns easy recipes.
If you've got expensive tastes, think about keeping your food in your room; it's a sad fact that lack of cash and a rumbling tummy can turn even the most honest of student mates a bit light-fingered.
Doctor in the house
As soon as you get there, make sure you register with a doctor and a dentist; you don't want to be caught without one of you're not feeling your best. You'll need the details of your current doc when you're registering, so make sure you take these with you. Some students are entitled to free healthcare: this NHS online booklet tells you how to get help with health costs. Section 12 is where you'll find the info you need.
Got any student tips of your own? Why not share them with n2k readers?
