Student Tips for Managing Change as a University Student in Birmingham

Starting university is an exciting chapter, but with that excitement comes change. Whether coming from another city or another country, adapting to a new environment like Birmingham can be overwhelming. And for many, this is the most challenging part. From moving house every year to meeting new housemates and adjusting to different routines, change is a constant part of student life. We’ve made a list of practical tips to help manage that change and settle into student life in Birmingham.

1. Try to Keep the Flavours and Feelings of Home Alive

Bringing a sense of home to your new space can make a huge difference. Personal items like familiar bedding, keepsakes, photos, or even a favourite mug can create a sense of continuity and comfort.

Food plays an important role, too. Birmingham’s rich cultural diversity means access to international supermarkets and grocery stores. Plenty of shops offer everything from spices and snacks to speciality ingredients that help recreate the taste of home, no matter where you’re from.

2. Discover Your Comfort Spots

Finding regular spots to study, relax, or socialise outside of your accommodation can help create routine and familiarity. On campus, the University of Birmingham's Main Library and the Green Heart provide flexible study and leisure spaces. There are also many social areas in the Guild of Students building and various cafes dotted around campus.

Off-campus options include cosy spots like Damascena in Moseley, ideal for studying with a coffee, or the Caffè Nero in Harborne for a quieter environment. For a mental reset, green spaces like Cannon Hill Park or a walk through Winterbourne Gardens offer an escape from busy student life.

3. Get Involved in a Society

Joining a student society is one of the most effective ways to feel part of the university community. With hundreds of options through the Guild of Students, ranging from academic and cultural societies to sports and hobby-based groups, there’s something for everyone.

Societies are a great way to meet people, explore interests, and discover new ones. Many offer trips around the Midlands or the chance to participate in events, volunteering, or competitions, helping to make university life more engaging and enjoyable.

4. Reach Out for Support

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed during big transitions. The University of Birmingham offers various wellbeing services to support students through difficult periods. Booking wellbeing check-ins is simple through the university’s online portal, with access to various wellness resources.

Additional academic and general advice is also available through the Guild of Students, ensuring students can access trusted support when needed.

Always know that managing change as a student in Birmingham is about finding stability where possible, whether through familiar foods, friendly faces, regular routines, or reliable housing. With the right support and a bit of local know-how, settling into life in Birmingham becomes not only manageable but enjoyable.

Choose the Right Accommodation with Unihousing

Reliable, stress-free accommodation plays a big role in easing the challenges of university life. Unihousing, Birmingham’s number one student letting agent, offers high-quality, fully furnished student properties in Selly Oak, just minutes from the University of Birmingham.

All of our accommodation is owned by us. This means we can deal directly with our tenants. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations.

Most of our properties come with rent to include bills, superfast Wi-Fi, and fast maintenance support. From private studios to shared student houses, we offer flexible, affordable options that meet a variety of needs. With a reputation for outstanding service as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher, with experience since 1984 and student-focused letting, we are a trusted name in student accommodation.