So, you’ve been living in student halls for your first year of university and now it’s time to start thinking about your second year accommodation. Perhaps, you don’t really get on with your current housemates or they’ve decided to go their own way? Having no flatmates for second year isn’t an ideal scenario but it happens (more often than you’d think.) Figuring out where and who you are going to live with at university can be stressful but try not to worry. In fact, having no flatmates for second year could be a blessing in disguise. So, if you find yourself in this situation, then read on to see what your options are.
Widen your social circle
If there ever was a time to widen your social circle, it’s now. University offers unlimited opportunities to meet new people but you have to put yourself out there. Although this can be stressful for some people, it’s important to remember that everyone is in the same boat. Try talking to new people in your lectures, join a student society and say yes to as many social events as you can. Chances are that you may be able to live with some of these new friends for second year- or they may be able to introduce you to someone else who’s in the same situation as you.
Consider staying on in student halls for second year
Student halls aren’t just for first years. In fact, the convenience and inclusivity of student halls mean that staying on for second or even third year, is a great idea if you are keen to meet new people. What’s more, there are plenty of other benefits that come from staying in halls. Some of these are included bills (which is great with the current energy bill crisis) and the obvious benefits of having conveniences like a weekly cleaner and on-site laundry. You can read about the pros and cons of staying in student halls for second year here. It’s important to remember that time is of the essence- so if you do want to stay in halls, it’s better to act sooner rather than later.
Check out SpareRoom
When looking for a student house, there are always people who are needing an extra person to live with them. Check out SpareRoom, which actually has a student section as this is a great opportunity to find these types of opportunities.
Post in Facebook groups
Likewise, Facebook is a great way to find potential houses and housemates. There are probably plenty of Facebook groups for your university or university city so make sure that you join as many of these as possible. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and post about your situation or send others a message.
Talk to your university accommodation services
Remember that your university accommodation services are there to help you! If you are struggling with finding a place then they should be able to help you access your options. Many university accommodation services offer a flatmate finder type situation and may be able to link you up with other uni students who are also looking for people to live with!
So, hopefully, know you have some ideas of things to do if you have no flatmates for second year. It’s disappointing when you don’t get on with your first-year housemates are well as you wanted to. However, second-year offers plenty of opportunities to meet new people so don’t stress! Likewise, if issues with your living situation have affected your mental health then it’s important to keep talking to others about how you are feeling. Check out this list of places where you can access mental health advice in the UK, here.
Last Updated on August 20, 2024
Published on May 20, 2022
