Calling all 2025 freshers at Cardiff Uni. You’re probably looking to move into Cardiff by next week, and hopefully you’ve done the needed Ikea shop and are starting to gather the last bits and bobs for your big move.
Of course there are some things you’ll learn along the way, but other bits of info are essential for you to know before you start settling into uni life.
With that in mind, here’s a few of those small, but very important, starter tips before the big move.
All the practical things
First off on your Cardiff 2025 Freshers’ kit, we have to be practical. Money and financial independence can always be a little daunting or anxiety inducing.
But once you’ve got the hang of budgeting and understand where the best places are for you, then you’ll be good to go. For example, the Lidl in Cathays is student central, but if you’re more of a Tesco or Aldi shopper there’s one of each located right next to the Taly accommodations.
Another essential is making sure you’ve downloaded UNIDAYS and Student Beans. They will be your best friends in order to get the best deals and save money.
One final practical tip is getting in the habit of always having your house key and ID card with you. Although it may come digitally, there’s been way too many unfortunate incidents where my phone’s died and I couldn’t get into the Taf without my ID cards. Trust me – it’s a must.
Surviving a shared kitchen and flat antics
I beg you to not let it get to the point where mould is growing on the dirty dishes x
Now, you must have heard horror stories about uni flats and kitchens. Although most of the time they won’t become a reality, there’s always the odd flat that’s just not tolerable.
So make sure you set your boundaries when you move in, but also try and remain as acquainted with your flatmates as possible. There’s nothing worse than someone using your milk and not being able to say anything without causing an argument. Not to scare you, but I’ve genuinely heard stories of flatmates peeing in each others milk.
To keep a clean flat, think about creating a bin or cleaning rota and make sure everyone does their dishes before they start growing mould… yes mould – people will leave it that long.
Cardiff specific must-knows
The bins and rats are all part of the aesthetic x
There are a couple things you just need to know before coming to Cardiff, and the YOLO queue is one of them. It will be long, and you will need to arrive before half eight in order to secure free entry. Plus, the Woody is one of the most popular student clubs, with deals too. Misfits is yet another club that you shouldn’t miss – you’ve just got to beat the queue.
The weather in Cardiff is an entirely different topic. All I can say is, just make sure to bring a good waterproof coat – and definitely pack an umbrella.
Finally, Cathays is student central. There are bins (and rats) everywhere but it’s part of the aesthetic. It’s where most live after first year and where all the takeaways and main pubs are located. On the topic of accommodation post first year, don’t stress about that until November/December – I promise you have time.
All the things that will make life easier
Your flatmates will thank you if you bring a speaker
For some final bonus points in your Cardiff 2025 Freshers’ kit, bring a portable speaker (your flat will thank you). These are the best thing for a pres or flat hang out. The most popular are usually the Logitech or Boom speakers.
Next, make sure you bring a laundry bag and detergent to take your clothes to and from the laundry room – the blue Ikea bags saved me.
Last but not least, bring a formal outfit. You never know if you’ll be going to a formal event and it’s just a good one to have in the back of the cupboard.
Hopefully these tips and tricks have eased your nerves before moving to uni but remember you’re not the only fresher. Everyone is having a similar experience, so whatever you’re feeling, know that you’re not alone.
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