The Do’s and Don’ts When Choosing Second Year Student Accommodation

After a fun filled first year as a university fresher, now is the time to start the search for second year accommodation. From budgets and safety to convenience and location, there are several factors to way up – but with plentiful options on the market, we are in no doubt you’ll soon find a space to call home. Keep reading to discover the do’s and don’ts when choosing second year student accommodation.

What to consider when choosing second year student accommodation

Whilst you may be clear on the type of accommodation you are looking for, or a particular location that you prefer, there are other considerations to factor into your decision to ensure you find the most suitable space for your needs. Here’s what to look out for:

Don’t leave it too late

A common mistake amongst many university students is they often begin the hunt for their accommodation far too late. Prioritise looking for your second-year accommodation as early as the October of your first year, to avoid disappointment and ensure you’ve found the perfect solution for your studies. When it comes to uni accommodation, there’s no such thing as being too organised!

Decide who you want to live with

The people you choose to live with can make or break your university experience, meaning that you should place high importance on getting this right. Compatibility is key!
But, having to choose a group of friends so early in the academic year can be daunting, and if you haven’t yet built up a strong friendship group, it can be extremely challenging knowing what to do. Fortunately, there are accommodation solutions available, such as private halls, which can bring about a community-feel, and offer a great opportunity to make new friends.

Decide on your budget

Coordinate with your future housemates and discuss the right budget for you, that will still ensure you have enough of your student loan left for food, transport, and socialising. Feeling safe and happy in your accommodation is of the upmost importance, but you must also factor in everyday costs, which will quickly add up.

Consider your accommodation type and service package. Lots of accommodation will incur hidden costs such as bills, heating, and TV licenses, so these must be recognised and budgeted for.

Consider the location

When it comes to choosing second year accommodation, you should factor in location. Consider questions such as: Is proximity to campus important to you for easy access to studying? Or is a central location preferable for nights out and socialising?

It’s important to bear in mind that location can also have a significant impact on your costings. Accommodation that is closer to university may well incur higher monthly rent. Although accommodation further away could see you facing more expensive taxi fares and petrol charges.

Where there is a lack of transportation options available nearby, you may find yourself subject to a lengthy walking distance from University, so be sure to investigate your nearest bus stop before deciding on a place to settle.

Consider the safety of the accommodation

It can be challenging to call somewhere home when you don’t feel safe in your surroundings. Prioritise your safety by choosing a place to live where you feel most comfortable. Private halls, such as those at Lulworth, are renowned for their 24/7 onsite security, key door entry system and CCTV, meaning they may be a safer alternative to private housing.

Consider all options

The most important thing when choosing second year accommodation is to factor in all the options available. Although it may seem convenient to opt for private housing, it is becoming increasingly popular to consider private halls for second year accommodation – which offer high-quality value for money accommodation, with extensive opportunities for socialising with like-minded students. Wherever you choose to start your second year, make sure you think carefully about your options and what works best for you as an individual.

Benefits of choosing private halls in Bournemouth over private housing in second year

The demand for private halls in Bournemouth is higher than ever, and it’s clear why! Here are just a few of the benefits of choosing private halls over private housing in second year:

• Value for money – With exceptional onsite facilities and amenities, private halls offer excellent value for money and is within walking distance of some of Bournemouth’s most renowned town centre attractions, beyond the student areas of Winton and Charminster.
• Location – In the heart of Bournemouth, private halls are the perfect hub for enjoying the nightlife and lifestyle the bustling seaside town has to offer. With frequent and reliable transport just down the road, you can ensure you are at lectures on time, whilst still enjoying the proximity to the town centre.
• Safer – With 24/7 CCTV and security, only staff members and residents have access to the building at any time, meaning students always have peace of mind.
• More Sociable – With sports zones and outdoor chill areas, there are ample spaces for you to relax with your flatmates and opportunities for making new friends from a variety of local educational establishments.

Find second year accommodation with Lulworth Student Company

Could Lulworth Student Company be your second-year accommodation solution? Beyond just first year students, Lulworth welcomes all residents from Bournemouth University, Arts University Bournemouth and AECC University. With comprehensive amenities and benefits, Lulworth accommodation is of the highest-quality, and perfectly situated just a short walk to the town centre, beach and Lansdowne campus.

Take a look at the plethora of rooms currently available, and reserve your place now.