Thursday 30-05-2019 - 11:55

Welcome to Manchester Met — your first month here is such an exciting time and the beginning of a new journey. Here are a few things to do during your first month that will help you find your feet, settle in and get the best start to your university adventure. 

Explore
Manchester truly has something for everyone — whether you’re into culture, nights out, or family days — it has it all. Head to the curry mile for some great grub, the John Rylands library for some culture, the Northern Quarter for a quirky night out, or Fletcher Moss botanical gardens for some outdoor scenery. With something to discover on every corner, it’s hard not to fall in love with this amazing city. 

Learn the basics
If it’s your first time living away from home, there might be some steep learning curves coming your way. Turn to Google, your friends or your parents and try to figure out some of the essential life skills you’ll need. Ever wondered what all the buttons mean on the washing machine? Now’s the time to find out. Get a few staple recipes under your belt too — you don’t want to live off toast and instant noodles for your entire degree. 

Budget
Figuring out your finances can be a real headache. Get your budget set early, so you don’t run out of money straight after Welcome. If you get stuck, go to the Advice Centre at The Union — they can give you some free advice on planning your budget, or help you if you haven’t received the loan amount that you expected. 

Know your surroundings
If you’re moving somewhere new, it’s a good idea to figure out where you are in relation to the things you’ll need, like where’s your nearest supermarket, pub, bus stop, train station, pharmacy etc. It’ll ease your transition settling in if you know where the essentials are. 

Find your people 
The thought of having to meet a whole new circle of friends is really daunting, but remember everyone’s in the same boat. Power through the awkward introductions in lectures, grab a drink with your flatmates, join a couple of societies, and remember there are loads of things to do in the city where you can meet new and like-minded people. 

Say yes
Your first month will be a period of lots of new things and self-discovery. Be brave and say yes to the things that come your way. Don’t pass opportunities and wonder ‘what if’ later.