Moving into a student residence is a unique experience. It is often exciting, as it is the first step towards becoming more independent, but it can also be stressful. From the moment you pack your things to the day you arrive at the student residence, nerves are on edge.

You are about to start studying at university, moving to a new city, meeting new people and living new experiences. It’s a time of many changes, so it’s understandable that you’re feeling a bit stressed.

However, to put your mind at ease, we’ll tell you what to expect during the first few days in the student residence. This way you will be more confident about what is to come and you won’t be overcome by the fear of uncertainty.

Arrival

When you arrive at the student residence, the reception staff will check your details and your ID. They will then give you the key to your room and give you directions. You will be surprised to finally be in the building that will now be your home and you will want to explore everything.

However, we recommend that you spend this first day organising your things and settling into your room calmly and quietly. It is likely that you will be loaded with things, so it is better to sort them out first. You will then have time to explore the residence and even the city.

Getting to know other residents

If you chose to live in a shared flat or a double studio, it means that you will have company. You may meet your flatmates on the day of your arrival or during the following days depending on who arrives first.

Sharing space with a stranger may feel awkward at first, but as soon as you get to know each other, that feeling will disappear. We advise you to be open and open-minded so that this first meeting is pleasant for both of you.

If you chose to live in a single room or studio, this means that you will be alone in your accommodation. Therefore, you will have to get to know the other residents in the common areas of the building. The dining room, games room and living room are usually the best places to socialise.

In any case, the first conversations tend to be about “where you come from”, “what you are going to study” and “which university you belong to”. In this first approach, you also get to know each other’s tastes and interests. For example, you can talk about the latest film or song, any topic of interest you have in common.

Don’t feel pressured to make friends. Be authentic and you’re sure to get your next best friend at some resident. Also, remember that most of them are going through the same thing you are. They’ve just moved in and are trying to meet new people. You are not alone in all of this.

Touring the residence

The second day is the perfect day to take a full tour of the residence. Sometimes staff will offer to accompany you on a guided tour of the various common areas.

Depending on your arrival time, you may be offered the tour on the same day. If it is already a little late, the manager may offer to leave it for the next day. Therefore, you have the option of doing the tour accompanied or alone.

One advantage of doing it in the company of staff is that you won’t feel so lost. They will guide you to each area, explain what they are used for, the opening hours and even make clear the rules of coexistence that apply in the building.

On the other hand, if you prefer to explore on your own, you are free to do so. The good thing is that you can go at your own pace, dedicating as much time as you want to each space.

Getting to know the facilities is essential to enjoy the whole experience of living in a student residence. At LIV Student, you will have:

• Games room
• Multimedia room
• Study room
• Karaoke
• Swimming pool
• Roof terrace
• Laundry
• Dining room

These are the main meeting points of the residence. Residents walk around the facilities on a daily basis, so getting to know them will allow you to become part of the dynamics of the building and socialise with others.

Attending the welcome event

During the first few days of your stay, the staff usually organise a welcome event. In general, this activity is aimed at new residents in order to make you feel more comfortable and at ease.

The activity may include a guided tour of the facilities, team building activities and free time for newcomers to get to know each other. This event is perfect to feel part of the community, make friends and enjoy a moment of relaxation.

As the days go by, you will see that there is nothing stressful about living in a student residence. On the contrary, it becomes a pleasant experience in which you are just another member of a big family.