Flying the comfort of a family nest and into your student accommodation for the first time brings a whole host of stresses and worries, both physically and emotionally. It’s a huge transition especially for those moving away from home for the very first time.
One thing for sure, is students are becoming particularly drawn to Universities who offer the whole student experience rather than just academics alone. Universities all over the country are working even harder than ever before to make the transition from home life to student life as easy as possible.
We looked at recent stats from the WUSCAs, an annual celebration of the best voted universities and higher education institutions in the UK. The Whatuni Student Choice Awards awarded (in order of ranking) Swansea University, Aberystwyth University, Loughborough University, Bangor University & Harper Adams University for ‘University of the Year 2019.’
All of the awards are nominated by students themselves, through the 41,000+ reviews collected in 2019 alone. Students are definitely the most prolific users of the internet in our society and almost always automatically go online for almost any task – and that includes feedback of any kind! Due to this, we are beginning to see a whole new era of web savvy students with high standards and Universities are recognising this in their pre-arrival offerings.
One thing the five of the top rated Universities have in common is their offering to their students, one of which is pre-arrival student packs from UniKitOut. As part of the experience students can easily order bedroom, kitchen and bathroom kits to be waiting for them upon arrival. Items for the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen are packed in compact, tailor-made packs comprising a wide variety of bedding, linen, towelling, cooking equipment, crockery, bathroom essentials and homeware essentials.
The upshot is that when the students first arrive at university, all the chosen equipment to ease their way in will already be there and waiting for them. From feedback received to date, it's clear that our totally bespoke online service significantly enhances the student experience for the benefit of both students and universities alike.
Universities are also supporting their international students more than ever before, with most offering help opening bank accounts, important mental health support, Immigration & visa guidance, costs of living information and general move-in help.
Upon discussing with hall managers their roles on a regular basis, their responsibilities have evolved and they often develop a mentor/parent relationship with students - becoming a parent figure, a friend and a support network all in one.
If students are prepared for what to expect when beginning University for the first time, along with being equipped from day one, university life will be certain to start out smoothly and hassle free for all parties concerned.
Sarah Richens is the Marketing & Ecommerce manager for UniKitOut, Suppliers of Essential student packs delivered to university before arrival. 0203 475 4751
Source: https://www.whatuni.com/student-awards-winners/university-of-the-year/