Transitioning to Independent Living

Ok, now you’ve got an idea about where you’d like to live, let’s talk about the ‘M’ word. (Yep, money.) 

Starting university often means managing your finances independently for the first time, which can take a bit of getting used to. But there’s lots of support out there that can help you become a money management pro.   

Know your income and outgoings: It might seem boring, but you’ll thank yourself in the long run! Jot down all your income (student loan, scholarships or grants, work wages, family support). Next, write down all your outgoings (rent, bills, subscriptions, memberships, petrol etc). 

Make a budget: Once you’ve worked out how much you’ve got to live on every month, you can create a detailed budget. Decide how much you’ll spend on things like food, necessities, travel, (and fun stuff too). Budgeting apps like Walley or Money Dashboard Neon are handy and help you take control of your money. 

Use a savings app: You might not have much spare cash to save but every penny counts. You can automatically save money without even noticing it by using apps like Plum or Moneybox.  

Buy second-hand: When you’re on a budget, marketplace websites and charity shops are your best friend! You’ll find loads of bargains so have a good rummage around before you buy something brand new.  

Be a savvy shopper: Find out which stores offer student discount so you can make your pennies go further. Do your food shopping a bit later in the day, when the supermarkets are reducing food items. The Too good is go app is another way to buy perfectly edible supermarket/restaurant food for a fraction of the original price.  

Be intentional: Before you spend your money, ask yourself whether you really need it. We’re not saying to do this all the time (where’s the fun in that?!) But it’s worth being intentional about what you’re spending money on, so you don’t end up wasting it. 

Use our free resources: We’ve got lots of support on our website that can help you with money management and budgeting. Search for ‘Cost of Living’ on the USW website. 

Speak to our Financial Support Team: We’re here for you every step of your university journey. If you ever need advice, we can help you with financial aid, counselling, applying for scholarships, grants, work-study programs and more.

Health and Wellbeing

It’s important to look after your mental and physical health at university. The first step is to figure out what boosts your sense of wellbeing and then build these into your new lifestyle and location.  

Here are some of our top wellbeing tips:

Move your body: Whether it’s a rigorous workout at the gym, a Sunday morning yoga class, or a dance party in your kitchen – find something that makes you feel good. There are loads of clubs and societies at the Students’ Union that can help you get your body moving.  

Take time to check in: Journal. Meditate. Pray. Keep a gratitude journal. Knit. Colour in. Do something you enjoy and that helps you feel centred and calm.  

Talk to someone: It’s always good to talk. That can mean talking about your feelings with a friend over a cuppa or speaking to a healthcare professional. The important thing is that you don’t keep things to yourself.  

Remember to breathe: Focusing on your breathing can reduce feelings of stress and help you chill out. Box breath is an easy breathing practice than you can use anywhere, anytime. Inhale as you count to four – hold for four – exhale to the count of four.  

Eat well: You are what you eat so try and fuel your body with good, nutritious food. Lots of protein, fruit, leafy green veg, and healthy fats. Drink plenty of water and take vitamins or supplements if you need to. 

Get quality sleep: Getting forty winks isn’t probably top of your agenda. But sleep is powerful. It effects everything from concentration to mood. Aim for 8 hours most nights and avoid looking at screens last thing before bed. Pace yourself during assignments and exam season so you aren’t pulling all-nighters.

Your safety is our priority. Here’s how we’re keeping you safe on campus.  

24-hour service: All our campuses have 24-7 security staff and CCTV. 

Online halls induction meeting: If you’re living in uni accommodation, you’ll attend an online halls induction meeting as part of your license agreement. This covers all the key info on living in university halls and staying safe. 

Insurance: We’ve teamed up with Endsleigh, the leading student insurance provider in the UK, to arrange possessions insurance. This covers gadgets, cars, travel and more. Check your policy details on the Endsleigh website to see what you’re covered for. 

Staying safe beyond campus  

There are a few things you can do to keep yourself, your stuff and your friends safe. 

Businesses across Cardiff are working together to make it a safe place: If you’re on a night out in the city, there’s lots of locations where you can take refuge if you’re feeling scared or at risk. To find out more and download the app, visit forasafercardiff.com 

Always be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings: Don’t let any of your friends go home by themselves on a night out, and make sure you always let someone know where you are. 

There are loads of free apps that can help keep you safe: Safezone lets you raise alerts, check-in when working alone, connect with mental health resources, and receive important incident alerts. What3words lets you find, share, and save exact locations – handy if you ever get lost or separated from your friends.