As you embark on your exciting college journey, one crucial aspect to consider is moving into college accommodation. As this can be a somewhat stressful and daunting time, I have provided some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable transition.
Find and secure accommodation at the University of Dundee as soon as possible
I cannot stress this enough! As soon as you firmly accept your conditional or unconditional course offer as your first choice, visit the link on this page to learn more about securing your accommodation for the academic year.
When you complete the application form, you will be presented with several accommodation options (location, type of room, cost). By doing it early, you’ll have a better chance of being assigned your preferred option. In my freshman year I made the mistake of leaving too late and the only option available was West Park – the furthest accommodation from the City Campus, which wasn’t ideal since most of my classes had place in the Dalhousie building on City Campus.
The University of Dundee offers 6 accommodation options – four on campus (Belmont Tower, Balfour Flats, Belmont Flats and Heathfield), 1 off campus but very close (Seabraes Flats) and 1 off campus which is further away but can be more suitable for those traveling often to Ninewells Hospital. All rooms are en-suite (with shower and toilet) and include utility bills and internet.
Prepare for the move and arrive early
Once you’ve secured your room, it’s time to start preparing for your move. Create a checklist of essential items, including bedding, toiletries, kitchen utensils, and study materials. Don’t worry too much if you forget something, Dundee city center is full of shops and the nearest supermarket (Tesco Riverside) is just a 15 minute walk from the City Campus.
Personalize your space
Your room at the University of Dundee will be your personal sanctuary, so feel free to make it your own. Adding personal touches and decorations can greatly enhance your sense of comfort and place. Although you should take into account the guidelines set by the University of Dundee for decorating rooms, there are still several ways to personalize your space:
- Photos and Memories: Display treasured photos of your family and friends, reminding you of the support system you have in your home. Pin postcards or keepsakes from past trips, allowing you to relive those special moments and ignite a sense of wanderlust.
- Artwork and Posters: Hang artwork and posters that inspire you or reflect your interests. Whether it’s your favorite band, a motivational quote, or a piece of art that speaks to you, these visual elements can add character and create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Plants and greenery: Adding plants to your room can bring life and freshness to the space. Consider low maintenance plants such as succulents or small potted herbs that can thrive in a dorm room.
The University holds several poster/plant sales at City Campus throughout the academic semesters. These are generally sold at relatively low prices which are better valued compared to ordering online through Amazon, Etsy, etc.
Introduce yourself to your roommates
All facilities in the University of Dundee apartment (living room and kitchen) are shared between 6 and 10 people (depending on your choice of accommodation), so it is essential to establish open lines of communication from the start. On move-in day, I invite you to take the first step and introduce yourself to your new roommates. Enjoy the first week’s activities and make everlasting friendships with your roommates. Additionally, hold weekly or bi-weekly meetings with your entire apartment to establish responsibilities, such as cleaning common areas, inviting other friends to the apartment, etc.
Engaging with the University of Dundee Community
The University of Dundee offers a vibrant community with plenty of opportunities for engagement. Attend social events, join sports clubs and societies, and participate in activities to meet new people and make new friends. Getting involved in the university community will enhance your overall experience and create lasting memories. And don’t forget… have fun throughout your college career!
Accommodation information can be found on the University website. Accommodation Pages.