Home sweet home
There are a number of reasons why some students choose to live at home instead of moving into halls. Mature students might already live in the area, and students who live within travelling distance might prefer to commute instead of relocating.
While there are a number of benefits to living at home while studying - saving money on rent and staying somewhere that you feel comfortable, to name just a couple - some students find it harder to engage in university life when they're not living in halls. Sound familiar? Don't worry - we've got some top tips to make the most of your student experience when you're living at home.
Making friends
Use social media
There are a number of Facebook groups for Hallam students, including ones specifically for new starters, commuters and mature students. Chatting online before you arrive is a great way to meet people. There are commuter breakfast events at the HUBS throughout Welcome Week - why not arrange to meet a few new friends there?
Spend time on campus
It might be tempting to rush back home after lectures, particularly if you have trains or buses to catch, but try and spend a little more time on campus where you can. Grab lunch with your course mates, or see if there are any events at your Students' Union that you could attend during your breaks.
Speak to your reps
As well as five full-time Officers, your Students' Union also has twelve part-time Student Reps who are elected to represent your interests. There are reps for mature students, international students, part-time students, and others. If you're having any concerns, contact your appropriate rep for a chat. They're there to help you get the best out of your university experience. See who represents you.
Extracurricular activities
Joining a society
There are over 100 societies at Hallam Students' Union, so you're sure to find something that interests you! Many students who live at home avoid joining societies because they're not available in the evening - but don't let that put you off. You can contact societies through the Students' Union website, so why not get in touch and find out if there are daytime events or socials that you could come along to? Explore Societies.
Get involved with volunteering
The Volunteering team at Hallam Students' Union offer a huge range of opportunities in and around the city. Students who don't live on campus might be worried about the time and travel commitments of a regular volunteering placement, but there are plenty of other ways to get involved. Speak to the team about one-off events and fundraising - there are plenty of ways to help out that can fit around your schedule. Explore volunteering opportunities.
Give It A Go
The Students' Union's Give It A Go (GIAG) scheme hosts loads of events throughout the year, both at the HUBS and at Collegiate Campus. Plenty of these happen in the day, so they're accessible to students who go straight home after lectures. Events in previous years have included art sessions, craft and vintage markets, table tennis tournaments, and more. The Give It A Go team are always keen to hear what you would like to see happening - if you have any ideas for events, let them know!
Part of a community
At Hallam Students' Union, we want to make sure every student feels like part of our community. All of our resources are available to all students, regardless of their circumstances.
Be sure to make the most of everything that's there for you. Being a student is a really exciting time, and we're here to make sure you have the best experience possible!