You looked for a university, found your dream course at The University of Manchester, submitted your application, and were accepted. You thought the journey was over, but it’s only just begun. There are lots of new processes ahead: visas, medical checks, goodbyes and the big question: where am I going to live in Manchester? Manchester is a charming city, full of student life, art and new experiences; that’s why it’s best to start looking for accommodation well in advance, calmly and strategically. After my search, I opted for university accommodation, and this is my experience. 

When you start looking for accommodation, there are plenty of options, but there are also uncertainties and unreliable aspects. Whilst I was in Peru, I wanted to make sure of two things: firstly, that upon arrival in Manchester, I would have a comfortable place to stay; and secondly, that it would be in a central location, close to the university, and that I could be safe. So, despite having checked multiple options, the one that gave me the most confidence and guaranteed these two points was to check the university’s website and apply for accommodation.

I read the instructions, followed the steps required, selected the options that best suited my budget and requirements, and applied. The response was quick; I had accommodation in Victoria Park and one less thing to worry about. Before long, they got in touch with me, set up a Discord group chat for questions or clarifications, and offered an online workshop on safety protocols and an introduction to Manchester. For international students, having structured support on arrival can significantly ease the transition into a new cultural and academic environment. Straight away, I felt safer, more confident and ready to start my adventure in this city.

When I arrived, the accommodation met all the advertised criteria, and the staff were always on hand to sort out any issues. They also organised welcome activities, during which I met people who are now very close friends, with whom I have travelled and taken part in cultural exchange activities. The accommodation also offers communal areas where we can meet up, play, study, and socialise, as well as a fully equipped gym with machines and plenty of space for daily workouts. Another very important point was the location. When I arrived in Manchester, one of the first things that struck me was how easy it was to reach many places on foot, largely because my accommodation is very close to the city centre and the university. According to Google Maps, it’s a 22-minute walk and a 15-minute bus ride.

Now, looking back, I’m glad I decided to stay in university accommodation: it offers security, peace of mind and a location that’s 100% guaranteed. What’s more, it includes recreational facilities such as the study lounge and the gym. And, most importantly, it has allowed me to connect with people from other countries and other master’s programmes at the university, with whom I have fun, chat, travel and share experiences. Finally, choosing accommodation is not just about finding a place to stay; it is about creating a foundation for your entire experience abroad. That’s why I recommend doing some careful research based on your accommodation needs and identifying your non-negotiables. The decision is entirely yours, but remember that a great option, with significant advantages and very cost-effective, is to stay in university accommodation. 

Written by Yvett, a current postgraduate student in SEED. 

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