My ideal accommodation…
…by Jiaxi / from China / studying Cyber Security Privacy and Trust
Choosing to study at the University of Edinburgh was a pivotal step in my academic journey. As an international student in a one-year Master’s program, securing the right accommodation was essential. University-provided housing offers a wealth of information online and support for international students, making it the obvious choice for me. After evaluating factors such as location, cost, and living conditions, I submitted five applications and was pleased to be allocated my top choice.
I was placed in a self-catered postgraduate accommodation with an en-suite room, sharing a kitchen with nine flatmates. This arrangement provided a balanced mix of privacy and community. The central location was particularly advantageous, just steps from the university and the School of Informatics, and surrounded by supermarkets and restaurants, adding to the overall convenience.
Memorable Experiences
My year in university accommodation was filled with significant experiences, both rewarding and challenging, making it an unforgettable chapter of my life.
Flatmates
One of the most valuable aspects of my stay was the connections I made with my flatmates. As an international student, I initially worried about feeling isolated, but my flatmates quickly alleviated these concerns. They hailed from various countries and academic backgrounds, including undergraduates, PhD students, and postgraduates, which led to enriching conversations and broadened my perspective. We bonded over shared interests, particularly in sports, regularly participating in gym activities and morning runs. These activities fostered a sense of camaraderie and made me feel more at home.
The kitchen served as our communal space, where we often engaged in late-night conversations, sharing stories and experiences. Our diverse group provided ample opportunities for cultural exchange. We frequently dined out together, exploring different cuisines and learning about each other’s cultures through these meals. These interactions deepened my appreciation for global diversity and taught me invaluable lessons in acceptance and understanding.
Practical Benefits
The accommodation’s cost included almost all miscellaneous expenses. Internet, electricity, and water were covered, eliminating the need for separate payments. If any appliances malfunctioned, the management promptly addressed the issues, reducing concerns about unexpected costs. Additionally, a weekly cleaning service maintained the common areas, allowing me to focus more on my studies and personal activities.
Challenges
Living with nine others naturally presented challenges. The shared kitchen wasn’t always pristine, and tasks like cleaning and taking out the trash were our responsibility. However, open communication with my flatmates ensured these issues were managed effectively. These experiences taught me essential skills in communication, compromise, and patience.
Finally, reflecting on my year in university accommodation at the University of Edinburgh, I recognize the significant impact it had on my personal and academic growth. The friendships I formed, the cultural exchanges I experienced, and the life lessons I learned contributed to a year I will always remember.
Living in university accommodation was more than just finding a place to stay; it was about becoming part of a vibrant and supportive community that made my year in Edinburgh truly exceptional. While individual experiences may vary, the memories and lessons gained from this period are invaluable. I thoroughly enjoyed my time and hope you will too.
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