So you’re finally starting university and are now looking for the best way to live. But how do you choose the perfect student accommodation for your needs? Is your family home nearby and you can live at home? Or do you have friends that go to the same uni and you are keen to find a share house together? What if you’re new in the city (or in the country!) you’re studying in?
What to consider
Finding the right student accommodation is crucial for your university experience. You want to be able to concentrate on your studies – and maybe on forming new connections and making friends. Because we all know how important it is to have a support network, for both your personal well being and your professional career.
So to get back to your perfect student accommodation: Important factors to consider are of course location, budget, and facilities. But community also plays a significant role. It’s important to do thorough research and identify what suits your personal needs and lifestyle.
To help you with that, we’ve crafted this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
1. Types of Student Accommodation
As a student studying away from home, you have a variety of accommodation options:
Independent Rentals: Typically, private houses or apartments rented individually or with friends.
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Specialised housing designed for students, offering a range of facilities and amenities.
On-Campus Accommodation: Managed by universities, providing close proximity to campus facilities and activities.
Each type has its pros and cons, depending on your preferences and priorities. We at The Switch of course want to show you the benefits of living in a PBSA, because we believe it’s the best way to live. Especially when you’re an International student without a big network in your new city. But first things first: What are the key factors you need to look at when choosing the right place for you?
2. Key Factors
Room Type
Consider whether you prefer living alone or sharing with others. Some students enjoy the social aspect of shared living, while others value their privacy. But sharing also means caring… If you live in a shared house or have a multi-bedroom apartment, you will usually share a bathroom with someone and the kitchen and lounge area. You will have to get along with the people you are with and make sure that you align on your sense of cleanliness and order, cooking times (I had a room mate once that got up in the middle of the night to cook cabbage – not so great) and other things that happen in the communal space like watching tv or having friends over.
If you live alone, it might be harder to motivate yourself to keep your place tidy and clean! If you’re a couch potato there’s also a bigger risk of suffering from mental health issues.
The Switch offers a great solution. You can live in a fully private apartment or a private bedroom with shared amenities. Either way you will have people around you in the building that go through similar things as you. There are community events and of course the communal spaces like kitchens, laundry, gym, rooftop terrace with bbq area etc. for you to meet and hang with other people – just outside your doorstep. This way you can have a balanced experience – and retreat into your private space if you need to.
Location
The proximity of your accommodation to the university is super important. Private rentals might be farther from campus, making daily commutes longer and potentially unsafe at night. Also, there is the extra cost for public transport, especially if you have to travel during peak times. If you want to know more about public transport, check our articles about getting around in Sydney or Melbourne.
If you have a busy schedule or enjoy social activities, staying close to campus and student amenities has its clear advantages. The residencies of The Switch are all strategically located close to universities and in the centre of the city. This ensures your proximity to all important study locations as well as increased safety and convenient transport options.
Facilities
Evaluate the facilities provided by the accommodation. Private rentals often lack extra amenities and you have to get your own furniture or live in old and run-down stuff. All Switch buildings are modern and have stylish furniture. There are communal areas, laundry space, meeting rooms, gyms, BBQ spots, and private study spaces. It’s really that convenient! These facilities enhance your living experience and they provide opportunities for socializing and relaxation without leaving your residence.
Safety
Safety is paramount in your student accommodation. Nobody wants to walk home after a night out, keys tight in their hands or pretending to talk to someone on the phone. Living in a place with robust security measures gives you peace of mind. All of the locations of The Switch buildings are located in the city centre, there are bright street lights and usually 24/7 shops around. The buildings also provide 24/7 security and other safety features to make you feel secure.
Community
Of course a supportive community can significantly enhance your student life. Making friends and study acquaintances is key! Living in an accommodation that fosters a sense of community through organised activities and social events, helps you to find like-minded peers.
We take pride in hosting regular events and workshops at The Switch, to help students from inside and outside the building to connect. We are determined to create a supportive environment and offer you many opportunities, so you feel included. If you want to get an idea about our community, have a look at our instagram!
Budget and Extras
When budgeting for your student accommodation, you should consider all potential costs, including utilities, Wi-Fi and lifestyle. Transparent pricing helps avoid unexpected expenses and a PBSA will usually have a list of services that are included in the rent you pay.
At the Switch we offer you a truly all-inclusive fee. This covers your room, free laundry, free gym membership with a personal trainer, unlimited Wi-Fi and all of gas, water and electricity. Plus, the use of all community spaces like meeting rooms, theatre room etc. Living in an all-inclusive student accommodation simplifies your budget management. If you want to read more about our services at The Switch, check out this article.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right student accommodation involves balancing your personal preferences with practical considerations. By evaluating room types, location, facilities, safety, community, and budget, you can find the perfect place to call home during your university years. Remember, a well-chosen accommodation can greatly enhance your academic and social experience, making your university journey more enjoyable and successful. Good luck with everything!
The Switch
