Stress-Free Move-In Day: Tips for Packing and Moving into Your Student Accommodation

Moving into your student accommodation can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, filled with opportunities, independence, and growth.

However, the process of packing up your belongings and transitioning to a new place can often be accompanied by stress and anxiety. But fear not! With some careful planning and organisation, you can turn move-in day into a smooth and stress-free experience.
 
Here are some tips to help you achieve just that.

1. Plan Ahead:

Moving into your student accommodation is a significant event, so it’s crucial to start planning well in advance. Create a checklist of tasks to complete, including arranging for movers (if necessary), and organising your packing supplies. By breaking down the process into smaller tasks and tackling them systematically, you’ll avoid last-minute panic.

2. Declutter and Downsize:

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or dispose of things that are no longer useful to you. This will not only make packing easier but also help you start fresh in your new space.

3. Pack Efficiently:

When it comes to packing, organisation is key. Begin by packing essential items that you’ll need right away in a separate box, such as toiletries, bedding, and a change of clothes. Use sturdy boxes, label them clearly, and consider using color-coded labels for different rooms or categories. This will make unpacking a breeze and save you from the frustration of rummaging through endless boxes.

4. Take Measurements:

Before you start packing, familiarise yourself with the layout of your new student accommodation. Measure the dimensions of your room and any furniture you plan to bring along. This will help you determine if certain items will fit and avoid any unnecessary headaches on move-in day.

5. Seek Help:

Moving can be physically demanding, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. Enlist the assistance of friends or family members who can lend a hand with packing, loading, and unloading. Sharing the workload will not only make the process quicker but also more enjoyable.
 
At Be.Accommodation, we understand the challenges students face when moving to a new city and aims to make the process as smooth as possible. Located near UNSW, our student accommodation offers convenient and comfortable living spaces for students.
 
We help throughout the move-in process, including pre-arrival information, 24/7 support, and a range of services to facilitate settling into your new home.
 
Additionally, we offer fully furnished apartments with all the essential amenities, eliminating the need to purchase and transport bulky furniture. With modern facilities, communal areas, and a vibrant community of fellow students, we ensure that you have everything you need for a successful and stress-free transition into your student housing.
 
Moving into your student accommodation near UNSW doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By planning ahead, decluttering, packing efficiently, and seeking help when needed, you can make move-in day a smooth and exciting process. And with the assistance and support provided by Be.Accommodation, your transition into student housing will be even more seamless. So, embrace this new adventure with confidence and enjoy the start of your academic journey!

How to Balance Studying and Living in a Shared Student Accommodation

Living in a shared student accommodation is a common experience for most university students. It can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but it can also be challenging. Studying and socialising are both essential parts of university life, and finding a balance between them can be tough. However, with some strategies, it is possible to balance studying and living in a shared student

1. Create a Study Schedule

The first step in achieving a healthy balance is to create a study schedule. Plan out your study hours in advance, considering your lectures, assignments, and other commitments. Make sure you set aside enough time for studying, but also enough time for socialising and other activities.
 
It is also important to stick to your study schedule. Try to avoid distractions and stay focused during your study time. Let your housemates know your study schedule so they can respect your need for quiet and uninterrupted study time.

2. Set Boundaries

Living in a shared student accommodation means sharing a space with other people. It is important to set boundaries to ensure everyone’s needs are met. Make sure you communicate your needs to your housemates and be open to their needs as well.
 
For example, if you need quiet study time, let your peers know in advance. If your housemate has an important exam or assignment due, be considerate and avoid making noise or having loud parties. Respectful communication and setting boundaries can help create a positive living environment for everyone.

3. Create a Study Space

Creating a designated study space can help you stay focused and productive. Whether it’s a corner in your room or a quiet area in the library, having a designated study space can help you get into the right mindset for studying.
 
Make sure your study space is comfortable and well-lit. Eliminate any distractions, such as your phone or social media, and focus solely on your studies.

4. Prioritise Your Tasks

Balancing studying and socialising means prioritising your tasks. Make a list of your tasks and prioritise them according to their importance and urgency. This can help you focus on what needs to be done first and avoid procrastination.
 
It is also important to take breaks and make time for socialising. Set aside some time each week to hang out with your housemates, go out for a meal or participate in other social activities. This can help you stay connected with your friends and avoid burnout from studying.

5. Be Flexible

Flexibility is key when it comes to balancing studying and living in a shared student accommodation. Unexpected events can happen, and plans can change at any time. It’s important to be flexible and adaptable when these situations arise.
 
If your housemate needs some quiet time to study, be understanding and adjust your plans accordingly. If you have an unexpected deadline or assignment, be flexible with your social plans and prioritise your studies.
 

Balancing studying and living in a shared student accommodation can be challenging, but it is achievable with some strategies. At Be.Accommodation, your trusted student housing in Sydney,  it is important that our residents have all they need to balance study and leisure. Contact us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.

How to make a study plan

As a university student, you likely have a lot of responsibilities and tasks to juggle, from attending lectures and labs to completing assignments and studying for exams. With so much on your plate, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to manage your time effectively. This is where a study plan can come in handy. A study plan is a schedule or roadmap that outlines when and how you will complete your academic tasks.

In this blog, we will discuss how to make a study plan for university.

Step 1: Determine Your Goals

The first step in creating a study plan is to determine your goals. What do you want to achieve in your studies? Do you want to improve your grades, learn a new skill, or prepare for a specific career? Once you have identified your goals, you can use them as a guide for creating your study plan.

Step 2: Assess Your Time

The next step is to assess your time. Look at your class schedule, work schedule, and any other commitments you have, such as extracurricular activities or social events. Determine how much time you realistically have available for studying each week.

Step 3: Make a Schedule

Now that you know your goals and how much time you have available, it’s time to make a schedule. Start by creating a weekly calendar and blocking out time for your classes, work, and other commitments. Then, identify blocks of time when you can study. For example, you might choose to study for an hour before or after class or block out a few hours on the weekend for focused study time.

Step 4: Prioritise Your Tasks

Once you have a schedule in place, it’s important to prioritise your tasks. Identify the most important tasks, such as studying for exams or completing assignments, and schedule those first. Then, fill in any remaining time with less important tasks, such as reading or reviewing notes.

Step 5: Break Tasks into Smaller Steps

Breaking tasks into smaller steps can make them feel more manageable and help you stay on track. For example, if you need to write a paper, break the task down into smaller steps such as researching, outlining, writing a rough draft, and revising. Assign specific deadlines for each step and schedule them into your study plan.

Step 6: Stay Flexible

It’s important to remember that your study plan is not set in stone. Life can be unpredictable, and things may come up that require you to adjust your schedule. It’s important to be flexible and willing to make changes as needed. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you fall behind schedule or need to rearrange your study plan.

Step 7: Review and Revise Regularly

Finally, it’s important to review and revise your study plan regularly. This can help you stay on track and adjust as needed. Set aside some time each week to review your progress and make any necessary changes to your schedule. This can help you stay motivated and make steady progress towards your academic goals.
 
A study plan can be a helpful tool for university students who want to manage their time effectively and achieve their academic goals. By determining your goals, assessing your time, making a schedule, prioritising your tasks, breaking tasks into smaller steps, staying flexible, and reviewing and revising regularly, you can create a study plan that works for you. Remember, everyone’s study plan will look different, so it’s important to find a plan that fits your unique needs and preferences. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can stay on track and succeed in your studies.
 

At Be.Accommodation, your trusted UNSW student accommodation, it is important that our residents have all they need to study effectively. Contact us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.

The best cafes for studying in Sydney

As the new academic year is in full swing, and studying has ramped up, it is important that you find a study place that inspires and keeps you motivated. Common places to study are the study nook in your bedroom, study spaces around your student accommodation, and the library. However, have you thought about venturing out to some local cafes to get your study on?

Well, when living in Be.Accommodation, you have a vast amount of local cafes available to you that you can study at, whether you’re with a group, or studying alone

To save you the hassle of searching for the best cafes for studying in Sydney, we have compiled a list of our top five, have a read below:

The Grounds of Alexandria

Located in the heart of Alexandria, this café has a beautiful outdoor seating area and is perfect for studying in a relaxed atmosphere. With ample space and plenty of natural light, this cafe is a popular spot for students to study. They also offer free Wi-Fi to keep you connected. There are also multiple cafes in the Grounds, including the Potting Shed and The Grounds Café where you can indulge in a delicious meal.

Dymocks Café

In the centre of Sydney’s CBD, the Dymocks Café is the perfect place for students to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and university. Here, they can enjoy some peaceful study time surrounded by an abundance of books.

Pablo and Rusty’s

As well as having a variety of locations all over Sydney, this cafe is known for its delicious coffee and cosy atmosphere. It is one of the most convenient study locations for students that are looking for a quiet place to study.

The Book Kitchen

Located in Surry Hills, The Book Kitchen is a cosy and inviting cafe with an extensive collection of books that customers can read or purchase. It has a quiet atmosphere, ideal for studying, with comfortable seating, and delicious coffee.

Cafe Giulia

This charming cafe in Chippendale is popular among students for its comfortable and laid-back atmosphere. It has a range of seating options, including communal tables and cosy nooks, and serves delicious coffee and food.
 
Keep in mind that cafe environments can vary depending on the time of day and week. It’s always a smart idea to check the cafe’s website or social media pages to see if they have any events or busy times. This can affect your ability to study.
 

For more information on the best study places in Sydney and the finest student accommodation Randwick can offer, contact Be.Accommodation on 61 9167 9356.

Tips for students who are new to Sydney: What you need to know

Moving to Sydney is extremely exciting, however, there is a lot to think about – particularly if you are coming internationally. At Be.Accommodation it is important to us that all our residents are equipped with all they need for their year at university. Here are a few tips that will help you kickstart your year the right way!

Find accommodation before you come

First, and foremost, finding the right student accommodation can help you settle into Sydney easily and quickly. It is not just about having a place to stay when you arrive, as you will be asked to fill in your intended residential address in Australia on your Australian Incoming Passenger Card. Be.Accommodation can become your safe haven, we are located near some of the best universities in Sydney, and offer a safe and friendly environment for students to live and learn in.

Exchange cash

It is important to exchange some AUD cash from the bank in your home country or have access to a bank card that can be used in Australia. These things can take a while to set up and get settled with, so in the meantime try to bring $500 to $1000 in cash to get you through the first couple of weeks. This is because international transfers often take several businesses days, and it can take one to two weeks for you to get your bank card from an Australian bank. Having this organised before you arrive will save you time and stress.

Bring the right clothing

In Sydney you will experience all temperatures, from cold winters to very hot summers. So, pack a variety of cool summer clothes, like t-shirts and shorts, and warm winter clothes, in particular a warm jacket. Also, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and other sun protection, as the Sydney sun can be harsh on your skin.

Don’t forget the important documents

Print any important documents and bring them when you come to Sydney, including the offer from the university you will be attending, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and VISA Granted Letter. By bringing these documents with you, customs check will be an easier process. You will likely need to do some business such as banking in the first few days in Sydney, so by bringing printed copies of important documents will save you a lot of time.

There is a lot to see and do in Sydney

Once you have arrived, and settled into the student accommodation, it is time to explore the town. Sydney is home to many of Australia’s star attractions, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It also boasts a non-stop calendar of events, including world-class sporting events, the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks, and endless dining options.

Public transport is the easiest way to get around

Sydney’s public transport includes trains, buses, ferries, and the light rail, and you will need an Opal card to use it – luckily as a student, you can apply for a concession card which gives you discount rates. You can use your Opal card on the transport network extending beyond the city to the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Hunter, Illawarra, and Southern Highlands regions surrounding Sydney.

At Be. Accommodation, it is important to us that our residents have all they need to prepare for their time in Sydney. What is wonderful about our cheap student accommodation Sydney students love, is the location, safety, and wonderful community. For more information contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Getting ready for the 2023 uni year: What you need to know!

The start of the 2023 academic year is right around the corner for many Australian students, marking the return to lectures, assignments, and the dreaded ‘About me’ tutorial introductions. While the start of semester is a good time to discover or reacquaint yourself with your campus, suss out your classes, and make new friends, it is also the perfect opportunity to get all you need in order.

To help our residents, we have come up with a uni preparation checklist that will help set you up for a successful semester.

Sort out the ‘boring’ stuff

Before you begin the semester, you need to sort out your enrolment information, subjects, timetable, student ID card and your public transport concession card (in New South Wales, this is the Opal card). There are a lot of administrative details to prepare before starting university and dealing with them before the semester begins will help to make your transition as easy as possible. It is natural to be nervous about starting university, so don’t add extra stress by leaving any admin to the last minute.

Treat yourself

The new academic year is a great excuse to indulge in some retail therapy. Make sure that you are equipped with the right gear. Invest in a backpack or tote bag sturdy enough to hold your laptop and textbooks, and comfortable shoes that you can walk miles in. Speaking of textbooks, you should research the required texts for each subject before visiting your university’s book shop. Online second-hand bookshops are also a great alternative if you are hoping to some money. Last but not least is stationary, if you prefer putting pen to paper, stock up on notebooks, pens, and folders.

Plan your transportation

Take some time to explore and plan how you are going to travel to campus. Consider a range of modes and establish some back-up options in case your preferred method of transport is delayed or unavailable. Luckily, at Be.Accommodation, we are located near some of the best universities in Sydney, just a quick bus or train trip away!

Conduct your own campus tour

During O-Week your university will host plenty of campus tours, which we highly recommend you attend. However, sometimes it can be useful to explore your university at your own pace to get a general feel for where everything is, such as the library, student services, and food places. Conducting your own tour allows you to figure out where your lectures and tutorials will be held, which will be comforting to know when the semester begins, and hundreds of students are roaming the campus.

Organise your student accommodation

One of the decisions a student has to make before starting university is where to live. For some, the choice is easy as they have the luxury to continue living at home if it is an easy commute to campus. However, many students need to travel to a different city, state, or country to attend university and need to seek student accommodation. At Be.Accommodation, we are local to all universities in Sydney, in particular the University of New South Wales, the University of Sydney and the University of Technology Sydney. Because our property is located close to various universities, you aren’t travelling hours on public transport to reach campus.

At Be. Accommodation, it is important to us that our residents have all they need to prepare for the university year. What is wonderful about our Sydney student accommodation, is the location, safety, and wonderful community. For more information contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Sydney Holiday Attractions

Sydney is undoubtedly one of the best places to be during the holiday seasons. Well, at least we think so! With a lot of our residents being international students, we want to make sure that they have all the information they need to make the most out of their time in Sydney, especially as Christmas is fast approaching.

So, if you are looking for fun holiday attractions in Sydney, we have rounded up the best holiday events to help you and your peers share in the wonder of Christmas in Sydney.

Martin Place Christmas Tree

From Saturday 26 November to Sunday 1 January, Sydneysiders can visit the famous Christmas tree in Martin Place.Known as the tallest Christmas tree in NSW, decorated with more than 110,000 LED lights, a 3.4-metre colour-changing star, and 330 glossy baubles, it is definitely a wonderful site to see in the Sydney CBD.

Carols in the Domain

If you love singing along to Christmas Carols, Carols in the Domain is a spectacular event for you and your friends. Call your nearest and dearest, take some picnic blankets, wear fun festive accessories, and enjoy some of Australia’s biggest stars singing your favourite holiday tunes.

Christmas Markets

Escape the crowded shopping centres this holiday season in favour of a more local experience. Meet the people who have created your gifts and support local businesses. Sydney has a variety of Christmas Markets that are on from the end of November through to Christmas day. One of the stand-out markets is in the heart of Sydney’s CBD at Martin Place, where you can find a mix of goods from fashion, food, homewares, candles, festive products and so much more. These markets run from November 26-27, then then every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in December until Christmas Eve, from 11am-8pm.

Christmas at The Grounds

The Grounds of Alexandria becomes a spectacle leading up to Christmas. This year the theme is ‘Naughty or Nice’, take a stroll down their lanes decorated with candy canes, Christmas trees, stars, and snow, and book The Café or Potting Shed for a delicious meal while you are there. The Grounds of Alexandria is the perfect place to snap your festive Instagram pictures as well!

Christmas at Darling Harbour

The beautiful waterfront entertainment hub that is Darling Harbour is always filled with fun festive events throughout the holiday season. There will be a variety of Christmas displays, such as the Giant Christmas Bauble, and 6-foot-tall Christmas presents. If you love a good selfie opportunity, head down to Darling Harbour with a group of friends. There is also an abundance of restaurants to enjoy a great meal and a few drinks during your visit.

At Be.Accommodation, the finest student housing Sydney students love, it is important to us that you make your most out of your time here in Sydney. Call us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.

Best Summer Activities in Sydney

Living in Sydney during the summer as a student opens up a world of fun activities and experiences for you to explore. Sydney is known for its magnificent beaches, beautiful parks, great culture and wonderous adventures. When living at Be.Accommodation, you have access to some of the most breathtaking places right at your doorstep (or only a short drive or train trip away).

So, without further ado, here are some of the best summer activities in Sydney:

1. Unwind on one of Sydney’s famous beaches

It is no secret that Sydney is home so some of the most magnificent beaches in the world. If you want to be a true tourist, Bondi Beach is a must visit, however, there are also many other stunning beaches that don’t get as busy. Be.Accommodation is near Maroubra Beach, which is just as beautiful, and easy to get to from your student accommodation. If you want to go on a little road trip, head up to Palm Beach, you will experience stunning views, crystal clear waters, great waves for surfing, and if you are a Home and Away fan, you can explore the different areas where the show is filmed.

2. Release your inner child

If you want to let your inner child run free, Sydney is the ultimate playground. Gather a group of friends and have an adrenaline packed day at Luna Park, or you can also venture out west to Raging Waters Sydney if you love waterslides. Gaze the creatures at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, and don’t forget to visit the incredible wildlife at Taronga Zoo.

3. Watch a movie under the stars

Make the most of the warm summer nights with a movie under the moonlight. Set up a picnic in Centennial Park, and watch the latest films, and old classics at the Moonlight Cinema near Be.Accommodation. For a movie with a view, Westpac OpenAir screens outdoor movies at Mrs Macquaries Point, adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden, with remarkable views of the Sydney Harbour.

4. Find a brunch spot in the sun

If you are a foodie, and love a good brunch with your friends, Sydney is the place to be. The city and its surrounding suburbs are notorious for delectable brunch spots. Whether you want to brunch by the ocean, near a park, or at a local café, do a quick Google search and you will find the perfect spot for you and your friends. Otherwise, check out our previous blog for some of Sydney’s best low-cost eats.

5. Dive into a pool with a view

There is nothing more refreshing than jumping into a pool on a hot summer’s day to make you feel like you are truly on holidays. Sydney’s ocean pools are known for their natural beauty from the iconic Bondi’s Icebergs pool to the cliffside Mahon pool carved into the rocks at Maroubra, right at Be. Accommodations doorstep.

At Be.Accommodation, the best student accommodation Sydney can offer, it is important to us that our residents make the most out of their time in Sydney. Call us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.

How to stay focused while studying

The academic year appears to fly by so quickly. Orientation week seems like it was just yesterday, and before you know it, essay deadlines, and exams are on the horizon. But don’t stress, at Be.Accommodation, we have created a list of tips to avoid the stress and nerves that deadlines can create:

1. Make a plan

When you start the semester, you will be provided with all the due dates for your assignments and exams. So, get a head start and map out your work schedule now. If it is reading, writing, researching, or revising, make sure you give yourself a target to achieve at the end of each week, so you know that you are on track with everything that is due.

2. Create a relaxed study environment

If you are studying from home, or in your student housing, make sure that your space is tidy, and that your desk is clear from clutter. A clear space makes way for a clear mind, which is exactly what you need when you are studying. You will also find it easier to focus in your study space if it is a place that you actually enjoy being.

3. Take regular breaks

Productivity increases when students take regular breaks. Break down your revision or essay writing into manageable chunks. For every 45 minutes of study, take a 10-minute break away from your study space. Go outside for some fresh air, do some stretches, and have a quick bite to eat – we guarantee your brain will thank you later.

4. Stay hydrated and eat well

The best way to help yourself perform to your best ability is to stay hydrated, and to keep away from junk food. Set a reminder on your phone to drink some water, and snack on some fruit andnuts during your studies. Avoid eating foods with high levels of fat, as this will make you feel irritable and lethargic, which ultimately decreases your productivity.

5. Avoid all-nighters

You may think staying up all night studying will help you stay on top of your studies. However, doing all-nighters and functioning with a lack of sleep can have a serious impact on your health, and can in turn, hinder your work. A good night’s sleep is important to help you stay focused and learn effectively. Sleep helps to consolidate memory, which is essential when studying for an exam. So, swap your energy drinks and coffee for your bed, and be sure to get a good night’s rest.

6. Reward yourself

Rewarding yourself for your hard work is the key to staying motivated. These can be small rewards, like a piece of chocolate for each paragraph you write or watching your favourite movie once you have mastered a topic. When you feel like you have been working hard, or when you have submitted assignments and your exams are finished, reward yourself with bigger things, like a night our with your friends, or buying that pair of shoes you have had your eye on for a while. Just because you are a student, and you have studying to do, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy yourself.

 

At Be.Accommodation, the student housing Sydney siders love, helping our residents create the best study space possible is a priority for us. Contact us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.

5 Essential Items You Need In Your Study Space

If you are studying at home, or in your student accommodation, taking the time to set up your study space properly is a must! It can help you stay organised and increase your productivity.

The perfect study space will be different for everyone, however, there are a few essential items you will need to get started:

Stationary supplies

Pens, pencils, paper, staplers, sticky notes, and highlighters are all a must-have while studying. Stocking up on these essentials will help you stay organised. Discover how you study best, is it by writing out your notes by hand, highlighting your notes in different colours, or sticking notes all over your room as a visual aid? There are no rules – do what works best for you.

Add a clock

Be sure to time your studies and allow yourself to take a well-deserved break. It is more effective if you work for an hour and have a 10-minute break, then repeat. Make a coffee or cup of tea, have a stretch, or go for a walk – just remember to go back and continue to study (even though it can be tempting to lay on your bed and have a nap).

Headphones

This may not be for everyone – however, if you feel that you study best while listening to your favourite songs, headphones are an essential item. If you enjoy listening to music while you study, choosing the right sound can be vital to your overall productivity level. Headphones are also important when living in shared student accommodation to not become a distraction to your peers, and vice versa.

Be comfortable

No matter where you decide to study, make sure that you are comfortable – because let’s face it, you are likely to be there for a while. Make sure your seat offers the back support that you need, and if you need to stand up, and walk around, do that too. Find what works for you, and what helps you focus even more.

Water bottle

This may not be an obvious one but staying hydrated while studying is very important. Always keep a water bottle on your desk to keep hydrate. Studies show that drinking water prior to an exam, and while studying can increase your academic performance. Our brains are roughly 75% water, and when you are properly hydrated, you are able to think more clearly, increase your ability to focus, and experience greater creativity and clarity.

At Be.Accommodation, your finest student accommodation near UNSW, helping our residents create the best study space possible is a priority for us. Contact us on +61 2 9167 9356 for any enquires and talk to one of our members for information about student accommodation that is uniquely suited to you.