Moving away to university can be daunting. For many, it is the first time you will have to effectively create a new home for yourself. Some things you can certainly pick up once you are at uni, but a few things are worth thinking about before you go.
Stationary and academic:
A-Level notes – if they are at all relevant to your course, you’ll probably find them useful for reference – to remind you of all the things you’ve forgotten during the summer. Especially the grammar. We all love grammar.
Stationery – pens, paper, folders – you will be able to buy all these.
Books – only buy the ones you know you’re going to need (and be aware that you can probably buy them cheaper from 2nd years when you arrive/pick them up in the SU for free). Otherwise wait to see what reading lists your lecturers give you. Also see our recommended reading list.
Administrative documents:
Registration details – these are really useful for the first couple of days and then can be left at the bottom of a drawer for the next few years (UCAS forms or a letter from the university confirming your place).
Passport photos for university registration, every official document you own – French bureaucracy is notoriously long winded so bring copies of your passport photo, birth certificate, student cards, bank statements, health cards, driving license - as much as you can think of!
Electronics:
Laptop/desktop computer – Remember to also bring a USB stick to back up your work and possibly a cheap printer (although you can always print things off at uni). Make sure you remember to insure these items.
Bedside lamp/desk lamp – Useful for reading in bed or to have on your desk for when you work.
Phone charger – it’s amazing how irritating it is if you forget this.
Extension cable – you will also find a 4+ socket extension lead useful. Many rooms will have few power sockets. Also don't forget to bring loads of English to French plug adaptors.
Cleaning:
Washing basket – you should also bring with you some washing powder/conditioner just to get you started.
An iron and small ironing board – always useful so that you can iron your clothes so that you look presentable for more formal uni occasions.
Towels, sheets, pillows, duvets, blanket – find out exactly what is provided for you before you go.
Clothes hangers – you’ll often find some left by your room’s previous occupant, but you can never have too many.
Kitchen (dependant on accommodation type):
Toastie machine – invaluable for a quick meal.
George Foreman Grill – this is very useful for meat, vegetarian foods and fish. It is a quick and easy way to cook healthy food. You should check with your accommodation what kitchen facilities they will provide.
Cooking utensils – you will need: a frying pan, a saucepan and a wooden spoon. A colander is also pretty much essential for draining pasta, vegetables etc. A student cookbook will also come in handy.
Plates, cutlery, cups – make sure you bring enough plates, bowls, side plates, cutlery and cups. You should however check with your accommodation to see if they provide these as some do.
Toaster, kettle – worthwhile to bring with. Again, you should however check with your accommodation to see if they provide these. Also double up as weapons in case anyone looks at you funny.
Home away from home:
Posters – rooms tend to look a bit bare and miserable until you decorate them.
Photos – anything to make the room feel like your own.
