Moving Out:

Moving out was something I had been desperate for for a very long time but it also felt the right time for me to do so not because I had a bad a relationship with my parents by any means I just needed my own space. I was nineteen and had just finished college studying popular music. I was moving from Edinburgh to cold Aberdeen for my first year of university and I was excited for an adventure and also all the independence that it required.

---

PREPERATION:

Obviously moving out required an iconic trip to IKEA which is where I would recommend getting much of your shopping list such as boxes, pots and pans, and kitchen equipment. Here's the shopping list that I found handy for moving.

Shopping List:

- 3 pots - Mugs (I already had my own collection that I brought)

- 4 bowls - Books (once again you will perhaps have your own)

- 4 plates - Hair Dryer/ Straighteners

- 4 glasses - Plants (they give any room a homely feel)

- Cutlery set - Clothes (if you're like me you'll want a new wardrobe)

- Oven mitt - Make up/ skincare/ body care etc

- Vegetable peeler - Tapestry

- Mattress protector - Printed out photos

- Sheets

- Blanket

- Duvet & pillows

- Candle (homely sent)

- Decorations for your room

This shopping list should be enough to get you started although I'm sure you will have lots of ideas of your own. I've added many items to this list such as plants and photos which are not essentials but will help make your room homely and comfortable. I found that having a homely tidy room during university helped a lot with my homesickness when it came to me as I'm sure it will to you. Surrounding myself with photos of my happiest times also helped brighten my mood.

---

MOVING DAY:

If you're parents are helping you on moving day as mines did it can be an emotional time for both of you. After they leave it can be difficult and leave you feeling although you don't know what to do. To help with this I ensured that I never unpacked until they left and began decorating as soon as they did which helped keep my mind at ease and allowed me to focus on something. Using this time to socialise with your new flatmates is also a good idea as the best flats work when you are all best friends and can have a laugh together as soon as possible. We had a flat party on the first night to help us get go know each other and played games such as beer pong and other drinking games.

---

GETTING YOURSELF SETTLED:

Although it can be difficult to feel motivated during the first week or so if you're feeling the homesickness kicking in. As someone who suffered and struggled with this would suggest starting a routine as soon as possible, such as doing a food shop every Tuesday and Friday? I would also recommend getting involved in as many activities as possible such as going to the events that your friends are going to during freshers, or likewise signing up to ones that you find appealing to make friends.

---

COPING:

Although moving out can be difficult as harsh as it sounds, you have to push through it and believe me I know how difficult that can be. Make yourself as busy as possible but still allow yourself to breathe even if this is just a chill movie night yourself with your favourite snacks. Excersise can also seriously improve your mental health and I know it is easier said than done but many universities offer a gym service or sports societies. This equally could help you enjoy your time at university more.

---

RESULT:

As well as stating the obvious that you will get a degree at the end of university, you will also make friends for life who if you're staying in halls will probably be right on you doorstep 27/7, this as you can imagine leads to the best flat parties and unforgettable memories.