A student’s guide to balancing life at university

Your student accommodation plays a central role in shaping your university experience and, when chosen correctly, can be the foundation of your success. It provides stable conditions for your studies, social life, and overall wellbeing.

Compare the different property types available and assess which accommodation will be the most suitable for your needs.

Here are some tips for finding the right place:

·       Location matters: Choose accommodation near your university or with convenient transport links. This reduces stress and saves time, giving you more freedom to focus on studies and socialising.

·       Which amenities to prioritise? Look for places that meet your essential needs, such as reliable Wi-Fi, a safe environment, and study spaces. 

Mansion Student offers private student accommodations designed with student life in mind. They offer modern amenities, social spaces, and proximity to universities—perfect for striking a balance.

·       Budget wisely: Find accommodation within your budget, leaving room for other expenses like food, travel, and entertainment. Discover everything you should know about budgeting as a student with our guide here.

·       Community atmosphere: Living in student-focused accommodation can help you make friends, participate in events, and feel connected to others during your time away from home.

Pro Tip: Start finding and comparing student accommodation as soon as possible. Though you can typically start to book student accommodation between January and March, it can be beneficial to know your first choice before this period. Look for student accommodation as soon as possible, even as early as October/November.

Mansion Student has a series of private accommodations across the UK in some of the most popular student cities. This includes Leeds and Nottingham.

To arrange a viewing at one of our locations, click here

Balancing university coursework, a social life, and personal time is all about effective time management.

·       Create a schedule: Use planners or apps like Google Calendar to keep track of classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities.

·       Set priorities: Identify your non-negotiable tasks for the week and break them down into manageable chunks. This prevents last-minute stress.

·       Avoid overcommitment: It’s tempting to say yes to everything, but learning to say no can help you avoid burnout.

·       Stay organised: Keep a to-do list and organise your coursework to stay on top of deadlines. Apps like Notion or Trello can be handy tools.

·       Plan breaks: Taking regular breaks improves focus and prevents mental fatigue. Use these moments to recharge or socialise.

When booking student accommodation, consider properties that provide mental health support throughout the tenancy length. This can help in situations where you may feel overwhelmed and homesick. At each of our student accommodation locations, we provide on-site hospitality teams for 24/7 support, with all our staff mental-health first aid trained.

For more information, contact the Mansion Student team today!

Becoming a student is often the first step into adulthood for many, especially young adults who have never lived in a new city and on their own. But, it’s not just about living in a new place and studying; make sure to explore your new surroundings, whilst balancing education. Living in a city offers exciting opportunities, but it also requires some adjustment: 

·       Explore your area: Take time to discover local landmarks, parks, shops, and eateries. Familiarity with your surroundings can make city life feel less overwhelming.

·       Budget for living costs: City living can be expensive. Track your expenses and plan for groceries, transport, and leisure activities.

Read more about the best ways to budget as a student here.

·       Stay safe: Learn the safest routes to travel, especially if you’re out late. Familiarise yourself with public transport schedules and consider ride-share apps for convenience.

·       Take advantage of student discounts: Many cities offer discounts on transport, entertainment, and shopping for students – so make sure to keep your student ID handy at all times.

Join communities: Many cities have student societies, clubs, and networks where you can meet like-minded people and make friends.  

A thriving social life can enrich your university journey, but balance is essential for academic success.

·       Choose quality over quantity: It’s better to form a few meaningful connections than to spread yourself too thin trying to socialise with everyone.

·       Combine social and academic goals: Forming study groups can help you make friends while staying on top of your coursework.

·       Attend campus events: Universities host events like fairs, workshops, and social gatherings—great opportunities to meet people and engage with your community.

·       Manage FOMO: It’s okay to skip an event if you’re tired or have pressing deadlines. Your wellbeing should come first, so it’s important to manage the fear of missing out.

·       Communicate openly: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to friends or university support services. They can provide encouragement and help you regain balance.

Prioritising mental and physical health is the foundation of your success. Incorporate self-care practices into your routine to stay resilient and support a healthy lifestyle.

·       Stay active: Exercise improves mental health and helps relieve stress. Many universities offer gyms or fitness classes at discounted rates.

If you’re studying in Durham, our student accommodation, Ernest Place, has its own gym to be used by our tenants – perfect for not just keeping active throughout the tenancy, but also for socialising and helping promote a healthier mental mindset.

Check out Ernest Place student accommodation.

·       Eat well: A balanced diet fuels your brain and body. Plan meals ahead to avoid unhealthy last-minute choices.

·       Prioritise sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to maintain focus and energy.

·       Seek support when needed: University life can be overwhelming. Many institutions have counselling services, peer support groups, and academic advisers to help you.

It can be daunting moving to a new city and finding student accommodation. Make sure to look at all your options and give yourself enough time before making a final decision.

Mansion Student provides all-inclusive and modern student accommodations across the UK, including in cities like Leeds, Dundee, Durham, and Nottingham.   

Find out more about our Nottingham student accommodation here.

Browse our student accommodation locations here, or contact the Mansion Student team today for more advice!

How can I maintain a balance between academic work and social life?

Creating a routine is key. Dedicate specific times to study, but also schedule time for relaxation and social activities in your timetable. Setting boundaries, like not checking emails after a certain hour, can help you compartmentalise and enjoy your downtime.

What skills should I develop to succeed as a student?

Time management, organisation, and adaptability are among the most important things. Learn to budget effectively, cook simple meals, and practise clear communication. These skills will make your university experience smoother and prepare you for life beyond.

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