Why Chose Student Accommodation

There are a range of reasons why student accommodations are so important. Firstly, having an on campus accommodation means students can get to class quicker and easier. It’s an amazing learning experience that allows young adults to be more independent; living away and having to cook, clean, shop and overall look after themselves.

Secondly, it helps build social relationships as it involves sharing flats/dorms with other people. Often these are people from different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. Such exchanges and interaction with different cultural groups helps build good relationships. Additionally, individuals have the opportunity to learn about other people, culture and lifestyle.

Lastly, living away in accommodation allows students to feel “a sense of belonging and security.” This is due to daily social interaction with other people. Its a place where life long friendships are created. According to Alan Percey, head of Counselling at Oxford University stated, “student mental health is hugely improved if they can feel able to engage with other students through cooking, socializing, playing, and generally living together in a respectful community.” However, as exciting as University student accommodations can be, not everyone will have a positive experience. For example, international students are more likely to find it difficult adjusting. The state of inclusivity in International Higher Education white paper reveals how, “starting a life in a new country with a new culture, and political environment” can sometimes leave these students to feel excluded, increasing feelings of loneliness. Feelings of loneliness has increased during the past year due a pandemic and inconsistent lockdown restrictions. Such factors have effected students mental health even more than recent years.

Having researched the importance of student accommodations, it is clear to see how effective they are by, providing individuals with a variety of life skills. However, it is also vital in understanding that different cultural groups might not always have the same positive experiences. Therefore, it is important to provide for all students from different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. For instance, ensuring spaces are inclusive, interactive and provides a community, so students feel settled in a new environment. An example could be promoting students to share their work, collaborate with each other and the local community through a range of interactive activities.

In Birmingham the overall demand for accommodation was 36,218 bed spaces in 2017/18.

WHY CHOSE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

“Living away in a student accommodation has taught me so much about myself; how to live independently, cook, manage finances and learn about other cultures. It is the pinnacle hub of socialising, building relationships and feeling a part of a community.”