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From study prep to packing crockery: an expert checklist for starting university

As term-time approaches, soon-to-be students will be mulling over questions such as what to pack, whether to contact their new peers, and how to manage their finances. We ask those who’ve been there for their words of wisdom about how to prepare

Start gathering the things you’ll need, such as cooking equipment.“Ask family and friends if they have anything extra and go through your cupboards at home for unused crockery,” says Alice Randall, a recent graduate of Manchester Metropolitan University, who recommends looking in charity shops for nice plates, baking trays or saucepans. To experience your new home beyond the uni campus, get confident exploring by bicycle, research nearby beaches or walks, and look up upcoming gigs or cafes in other parts of town. A student art pass for £10 a year will give you free or half-price access to exhibitions and galleries, and a railcard will save you a third off train travel to and from university.

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