Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Essentials for Freshers'
I'm Erik, an undergraduate student at LBU, and I’m here to share some experience and tips I’ve learned from my own Fresher experience. Trust me, these essential items will be your survival kit for navigating your university life.
Starting university is one of the most exciting times of your life. I remember when I first arrived at Leeds Beckett, the mix of anticipation and thrill was overwhelming but having the right items with me made the transition much easier.
1. Student ID & Documents
Your student ID, university papers, and personal documents are essential for a smooth experience at LBU. Whether you’re enrolling online or in person, you’ll need your passport or driving license, or some sort of document that proves your identity.
When I went through in-person enrolment, having my passport and other documents on hand made the process quick and hassle-free—saving me a trip back home!
Remember, your student ID isn’t just for enrolment. It’s required for accessing campus buildings, printers and getting student discounts at local shops. Keep your ID and documents safe yet easily accessible to avoid any last-minute stress.
2. Laptop
A reliable laptop is a must have for every student. It will be essential for attending lectures, completing assignments, participating in seminars, conducting research, and staying connected with friends and family.
Personally, I use a note-taking and digital planning app on my laptop to keep track of my studies and deadlines. It’s a game-changer for staying organised and ensures all your notes are in one place rather than scattered. I highly recommend setting up a similar system on Microsoft OneNote or Notion to streamline your workload and stay on top of your tasks.
3. Comfortable Bedding and Decoration
Your room will become your personal sanctuary, a space where you'll spend a lot of time resting, studying, or relaxing. Bringing comfortable bedding, a cosy duvet, warm blankets, and your favourite posters and pillows can make a huge difference. It’s incredible how these small touches can transform your room into a warm, inviting space. From my experience, there’s nothing better than sinking into a well-made bed after a long day of lectures or work.
University life isn’t just about studying and revising notes; it’s also about knowing how to unwind and relax. I’ve set up a mini bookshelf by my bed because reading helps me wind down. For others, it might be video games, art, painting, music, or whatever helps you relax. Personalise your space and make it truly yours—it’s worth it!
4. Kitchen Essentials
Learning to cook is a big part of university life and a key step toward independence. Having the right kitchen essentials can make the process much smoother.
A reliable set of utensils, pots, pans, and storage containers is advisable. From my experience, I found that a good mixer, a quality pan, and a spatula are all you need to prepare simple tasty meals.
I encourage you to experiment with different recipes and kitchen tools to find what works best for you. With the right setup, you’ll nail your meal planning and hopefully avoid the mess I make!
5. Cleaning Supplies
Let’s face it, cleaning isn’t everyone’s favourite task, but it’s essential for maintaining a comfortable and welcoming living space. All you really need are some basic supplies: disinfectant, detergent, and a decent hoover.
I recall the time I spilled coffee all over my desk, leaving stains on my notes. Thankfully, I had some cleaning wipes handy, which saved the day. Keeping your room clean not only makes it more pleasant to live in but also helps you stay organised and stress-free.
Top Tip: In shared living spaces, it’s important to respect each other's boundaries and cleaning preferences. Everyone has different habits and tolerances, so communication and compromise are key to keeping the space enjoyable for everyone.
6. Power bank
Your phone is essential for staying connected with friends, managing your schedule, and getting around Leeds. To avoid being stuck with a dead battery, especially on busy days, a power bank is a must-have.
I once found myself nearly stranded far from home, with no cash and only an online bus ticket on my phone. Fortunately, I had a power bank in my bag. Don’t leave home without one—it's a lifesaver!
7. Reusable Water Bottle & Coffee Mug
Staying hydrated—or caffeinated—is crucial for keeping your energy levels up throughout the day. I recommend having a reusable water bottle or coffee mug with you during seminars and lectures. Not only will it keep you refreshed and energised, but it also helps with managing costs and reduces waste. Investing in a good quality reusable bottle or mug can save you money in the long run and is a more sustainable choice.
8. Notebook & Stationery
Having a few high-quality notebooks and pens is essential for jotting down quick notes during lectures or brainstorming ideas for assignments. Adding a set of colourful highlighters can also help you stay organised and make information easier to review.
These essentials were game changers for me when I started university. Having a reliable laptop and cosy bedding, along with adding personal touches like room decor, made my transition so much smoother. This space becomes your home away from home, so make it comfortable, organised, and uniquely yours. Trust me, creating a space that feels like your own will make all the difference and help you settle in quickly.
