Your first-day checklist

Arrivals day is here, and it’s a big one. When you pull up to your halls, you’ll feel the buzz straight away with hundreds of new students moving into their new homes. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect and how to settle in.

Getting moved in

When you arrive, you’ll be directed to the right spot for parking and unloading. From there:

• Key collection: Follow the signs to the collection point where you’ll get your room key or electronic keyfob.
• Unloading: Trolleys will be available to help you move your things more easily. Student Ambassadors will be dotted around the site to point you in the right direction and answer any questions.
• Parking: Spaces at the unloading areas are limited, so once you’ve emptied your car, you’ll need to move it on to let the next person unload.

Settling into your flat

Once you’re in your room, it’s tempting to shut the door and start unpacking, but one of the best ways to settle in is to be social from the start. A few ideas:

• Take your tea to the kitchen: Even if nobody else is there yet, sitting in your communal area with a cuppa is a great way to bump into flatmates as they arrive.
• Knock on doors: Don’t be afraid to pop by other flats in your block to say hello, everyone’s in the same boat and looking to meet new people.
• Join in events: ResLife run welcome activities to help you meet your neighbours, and the Students’ Union puts on plenty of events in the evenings, perfect for making your first friends at Southampton.

Final tip

Remember, everyone’s feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Putting yourself out there, even in small ways, makes a huge difference.