Moving to university is a big change. Whether you’re living away from home for the first time, moving into halls or sharing a house with new people, there’s a lot to get used to.

Your first few weeks might feel exciting, busy, strange or even a little overwhelming. And that’s completely normal.

1. Your first few days might feel chaotic

There’s a lot happening when you first arrive. You’ll be unpacking, finding your way around, meeting new people and working out where everything is.

Don’t worry if your room doesn’t feel like home immediately. It can take a little while to settle into a new place.

2. You’ll meet lots of new people

One of the biggest changes can be suddenly being surrounded by people you’ve never met before.

3. Your accommodation will become your home

Your room might feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you’re used to being at home.

Bring a few things that make you feel comfortable, get your bedding on, unpack your essentials and add some personal touches.

You’ll also need to get used to sharing spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms. Be considerate of your flatmates, clean up after yourself and communicate if something isn’t working.

4. You’ll probably get lost at least once

There are new buildings, lecture rooms, shops, accommodation blocks and places to discover.

Give yourself extra time when heading somewhere for the first time. Don’t be afraid to check a map or ask someone for directions. You’ll soon know your way around.

5. You’ll start finding your routine

University gives you much more independence, which can take some getting used to.

You’ll need to balance lectures, studying, socialising, cooking, cleaning, shopping and having time for yourself.

Your routine probably won’t be perfect immediately. You’ll work out what works for you as you settle in.

6. Cooking and cleaning are now your responsibility

If you’re living away from home, everyday jobs suddenly become your responsibility.

• Plan your food shop.
• Learn a few simple meals.
• Keep on top of washing up.
• Do your laundry regularly.
• Keep your bedroom tidy.
• Clean shared spaces after using them.

You don’t need to become a five-star chef. Start with a few meals you know you can make and build from there.

7. Homesickness is normal

Even if you’re having an amazing time, you might still miss home.

You might miss your family, friends, pets, your usual routine or even your favourite food. Keep in touch with the people you care about and give yourself time to adjust.

8. You don’t have to have everything figured out

It can sometimes feel like everyone else has already made friends, knows where everything is and has their whole university experience planned.

They probably haven’t.

Everyone settles in at their own pace. Focus on yourself, try new things and give yourself time to adjust.

9. Ask for help when you need it

If you have questions about your accommodation, moving in or living with other people, don’t feel like you have to work everything out alone.

There are people around you who can help, whether that’s your accommodation team, Students’ Union or university support services.

10. Explore your new home

Moving to university isn’t just about your accommodation. You’re also getting to know a whole new place.

Explore Huddersfield, find your favourite coffee spot, discover places to eat, work out where your nearest supermarket is and see what’s happening around town.

The more familiar your surroundings become, the more like home they’ll start to feel.

And remember...

Your first few weeks don’t have to be perfect.

You might have an amazing first day, get lost on campus, burn your dinner, forget where you put something or spend an evening missing home. All of those things are part of settling into university life.

Take it one day at a time. Meet people, explore your new surroundings and give yourself time to find your feet.