Friday 18-10-2019 - 12:49

University is stressful enough without having to worry about the people you’re living with, but it can feel like a whole other beast when you feel like you don’t have friends at home. So, what do you do if you don’t get on with your housemates?

Get out of the house 
Alone time outside of your bedroom is good for the soul: a solo shopping trip or setting up your laptop in a cafe can take your mind off your troubles for a bit.

Do something social
Your housemates aren’t your only option for friends, and whilst at university you have loads of opportunities to meet new people.

There is the general Students’ Union suggestion of join a society or a sports club (but students do say this is a great way to meet people); but you could always try extra-curricular classes like a language, music or skill. 

If you always want some money, you can get a part time job in the city center, or even look at the opportunities the University and the Students’ Union have.

Nothing wrong with home comforts
Talking to someone who knows you really well can be a relief when you’re surrounded by new people. Just calling a friend or family member can give you an opportunity to vent and have a good chat.

Make plans for next year
With student accommodation you’re only contracted to one academic year, so organising your living situation for the next one can give you something to look forward to. 

There’s lots of options too — private flats, houses, studio flats. Shop around, and if you’re totally insure the advice centre can advise you. https://www.theunionmmu.org/advice-centre/housing

If you want to move out
If it does come to a point where you’re so unhappy you want to move out, you do have options.

If you’re living in halls you booked through Manchester Met, speak with your Residential Advisor (who is based in your halls) to see if anything can be resolved.

If you’re dead set to move out, you can speak to the accommodation office — read the processes to know how you would be able to leave. 

It doesn’t necessarily work like this if you’re in private flats or housing, and you may need to pay your rent even if you stop living there, so make sure you are fully informed by reading your contract and tenancy agreement. 

If you’re feeling down
The university offers counselling and as mentioned earlier, the Advice Centre offers information on housing, so there is someone to talk to, no matter what the issue.