Out of a long list of things to do before starting your studies, booking your accommodation should definitely be a priority. Trust us when we say that any worries or problems are much easier to handle when you can jump straight into your cosy bed at the end of a long day. Luckily, finding accommodation as a postgrad student is easy – choose from private halls (like us!), university halls and private housing – and get settled in, ready to begin your Master’s journey!
Chances are that you’ve already started thinking about your student finances – for example, applying for a government loan. Having a handle on your finances is important, and it’s a particularly good idea to think about how you’ll manage your expenses throughout the academic year. We suggest looking into scholarships and bursaries – they can be quite competitive, and are often course-specific with particular requirements – or you can gather savings in the months before university and work a part-time job alongside your studies.
Connecting with your classmates before you even attend your first lecture is a great way to make new friends. There are lots of ways to get in touch with fellow students, and even your new teachers, before beginning your studies. Why not join a Facebook group and chat to other postgrad students at your university? Or if that’s not your thing, make the most of your induction week – with a range of social networking and Freshers events, you can meet like-minded people who may already have industry and career experience that you can learn from!
We can’t imagine a better power move than turning up to your first lecture having read most of the term’s reading list. Not only so you can get ahead of your studies, but also have the chance to immerse yourself in your subject and learn more about your industry and career path. Check out your course reading list if it’s available, or stay up to date with industry news and read more around your topic of interest.
If you’re moving to a new town or city for your postgrad studies, you could spend quite a few fun hours researching your new area. Visiting the city yourself will give you a good feel for what it’d be like to live there, but if that’s not an option, Google is your best friend! If you play a sport, search for local sports centres and clubs you can join, or check out what facilities your university has to offer. Likewise, if you practise a religion, search for your local place of worship so you’re prepared when you arrive.
Updating your CV prior to starting your postgrad year will help you out further down the line when applying for jobs around graduation. Not only will you be ready to showcase your skills to employers, but you can also identify any skills gaps and spend some time throughout the year to build on them. The start of a new academic year is also a prime opportunity to clean up your social media accounts and get networking! LinkedIn is a great place to start to get in touch with professionals in your industry and make connections with potential future colleagues and employers.
Lastly, we’d recommend investing in a planner or diary, or finding an organisational app to help you stay organised when balancing studying, work and a social life while at uni. Doing this ahead of your studies means you can note down deadlines, exam dates, and even when tuition fees are due, so you have a thorough overview of the upcoming months. Check out Evernote for notetaking and personal checklists, and myHomework Student Planner that works specifically to help you keep track of important deadlines.
Sanctuary Students provides high-quality, low-cost student accommodation across the country for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Postgrads are welcome at all accommodation sites, but we also have dedicated halls that cater only for those undertaking postgraduate studies. These buildings are always in convenient locations near city centres – including London, Manchester and Glasgow – with excellent public transport links, open spaces, local shopping areas and entertainment venues.
At Sanctuary Students, we offer students more than just a room when you stay with us throughout your university journey. On top of affordable and comfortable student accommodation, enjoy other perks like exclusive discounts and confidential care via our student advice line. We’re not only here to offer you great accommodation, but also help and support – it’s about more than just bricks, mortar and a comfy bed!