The Alternative EEE Freshers Guide: Living in Halls
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At university you will make the friends that will be by your side for the rest of your life!" That's what I was always told by my parents, grandparents and other "grown ups". So when I came to college I thought I would find the best friends I ever had within weeks. I soon found out that it does not work like that. Making friends takes time. Knowing everyone else is just as nervous makes it a lot easier.
Establishing a social life is one of the most important aspects of your first year. You will find there is not too much work to start off with, giving you the perfect opportunity to get to know as many new friends as possible. You will generally find your mates in three places: your course, union clubs and societies and in halls of resi-dence. Here you can meet people from all departments, different countries and with all kinds of backgrounds and interests. To help break the ice, the hall committee will organise a number of events such as meals, parties, booze cruises and trips. These are generally subsidised and great fun. I once went on an all day paintball trip including transport, lunch and 300 balls for £9. Some halls such as Linstead even have their own bar.
Another quiet night in Weeks Hall...
Should things get difficult, help is always at hand. Re-apps (students that lived in halls before and help running the place), sub-wardens, the wardens and house-keeping will be available around the clock and will be able to help you with anything from blocked sinks to broken hearts. The complete range of facilities necessary to maintain your desired level of hygiene will be available, such as washing machines, irons or fridges. You will however have to do your own washing and shopping!
My verdict? Moving from the army barracks into halls was definitely an improvement. I made many friends and had an amazing time. All for the measly sum of £85 a week inclusive of bills and paintballing. Try getting that kind of value anywhere else in London!
The dos and don'ts of living in Halls |
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Do start a cooking circle. You then only have to cook once a week, saving time money, and getting to eat a more varied diet. Its also a great way to make more friends. |
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Don't avoid people because they don't seem to be your type. They might have blue hair or be from deepest darkest Peru, but still turn out to be your best mates. |
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Don't just hang around your floor. You will get to know the students there first but there are others. |
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Don't worry about asking people for their names even after a few weeks. The chances are they don't know yours either. |
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Do ask the re-apps anything you like. They have been carefully selected and will not embarrass you in front of other students. |
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Don't wait for people to get to know you. Remember there are loads of people around so they will soon stop trying to drag you out of your room if you don't make some effort yourself. |
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Don't waste all your time using the free internet connection. You may end up with just a virtual social life. |
Useful Links
Imperial College Halls of Residence WebsitesWilson House Imperial
