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.

Unihousing Top Do’s and Don’ts when Sharing Uni Accommodation - Part Two

A continuation of our top do’s and don’ts as a university student sharing or hoping to share accommodation with housemates. To ensure a harmonious living environment, we’ve compiled our top essential do’s and don’ts when sharing accommodation.

Do’s

5. Be Mindful of Guests
It’s great to have friends over but always check with your housemates first to ensure they’re okay with it.

6. Respect Each Other’s Belongings
Always ask before borrowing anything that isn’t yours, whether it’s food, toiletries, or personal items.

7. Handle Conflicts Maturely
If issues arise, address them calmly and respectfully. A friendly conversation is often the best way to resolve disagreements.

8. Lock Up and Stay Safe
Ensure doors and windows are locked when leaving the accommodation and be mindful of security for everyone’s safety.

Don’ts

5. Don’t Take Without Asking
Whether it’s food, toiletries, or study materials, taking someone else’s belongings without permission can create tension.

6. Don’t Overstay in the Bathroom
If you share a bathroom, be mindful of how long you take, especially in the mornings when everyone is getting ready.

7. Don’t Hold Parties Without Agreement
A spontaneous party might sound fun, but your housemates may not appreciate the noise or disruption. Always discuss plans in advance.

8. Don’t Ignore Problems
If something bothers you, address it rather than letting resentment build. Honest and respectful conversations help maintain a positive living environment in the house.

With these tips, you can make your university accommodation experience enjoyable and stress-free. Living with others requires cooperation, compromise, and mutual respect, but the right approach can be one of the best parts of your university journey!

Looking for Student Accommodation? Unihousing Can Help!

Here at Unihousing, we have some of the best properties all around Selly Oak with varying prices and sizes depending on whether you want solo or shared living.

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

Smart Student Money Management Tips with Unihousing

 Smart Student Money Management Tips with Unihousing.

Managing your finances at university can be challenging; however, with the right strategies, you can stretch your budget further while still enjoying student life. Whether you’re living in a Unihousing property or planning your student accommodation, here are some valuable financial tips to help you stay on top of your expenses.

1. Set a Realistic Budget

The first step to financial success is creating a budget. Track your monthly income (student loans, part-time jobs, or parental support) and list essential expenses, such as:

• Rent and bills (Included within the price of the rent at Unihousing)
• Groceries and food
• Travel and transport
• Study materials
• Social and leisure activities

Monitor your spending and avoid unnecessary costs. Sometimes, even a simple spreadsheet with incomes and outgoings can help save the day to help ensure you are staying within budget.

2. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

As a student, you’re entitled to travel, food, tech, and entertainment discounts. Some essential student discount platforms include:

• UNiDAYS – Discounts on fashion, tech, and gym memberships
• TOTUM (NUS Card) – Discounts on books, subscriptions, and retail stores
• 16–25 Railcard – Saves 1/3 on train fares across the UK

Always ask for a student discount when shopping or dining out—it’s surprising how many places offer them.

3. Shop Smart & Meal Prep

Eating out frequently can drain your finances. Instead, try:

• Cooking in bulk and freezing meals
• Shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Asda
• Using cashback apps like Shopmium and CheckoutSmart for grocery savings

Unihousing accommodations come with fully fitted kitchens, making it easier to prepare budget-friendly meals at home.

4. Find Affordable Accommodation

Living in all-inclusive student accommodation like Unihousing helps you save money. Benefits include:

• Bills included – No surprises or hidden costs on electricity, water, and internet costs
• Close to campus – Save money on transport costs. Our accommodation is within easy reach of UoB.
• Furnished accommodation – No need to buy furniture or some essential appliances. Most of our student accommodations come equipped with a double bed, desk, chair and storage wardrobes.

Choosing the right accommodation ensures financial stability throughout your studies.

5. Earn Extra Income with Part-Time Work

If your studies allow it, consider taking on a part-time job or freelance work. Some student-friendly jobs include:

• Online tutoring (e.g., MyTutor, Superprof)
• Retail or hospitality jobs
• Campus ambassador roles

Paid internships are also a great way to gain experience while earning money.

6. Be Smart with Your Transport

Save on travel costs by:

• Walking or cycling instead of using public transport. Our accommodation is majorly based in Selly Oak, a short walk away from UoB.
• Using student travel passes for discounted bus and train fares.
• Carpooling or splitting Uber fares with friends to get to that night out in central Birmingham.

With Unihousing properties located close to the University of Birmingham, you can significantly cut transport costs.

7. Make Use of Free University Resources

Your university offers plenty of free services that can help save money:

• Library access instead of buying expensive textbooks
• Free software & subscriptions (check for Microsoft Office, Grammarly, or Adobe discounts)
• University career services for job placements and advice

Taking advantage of these resources ensures you get the most out of your education without extra costs.

8. Entertainment on a Budget

Enjoy student life without overspending:

• Free university events – Movie nights, live music, and social gatherings
• Streaming hacks – Share accounts with friends or use student discounts on Spotify Premium and Netflix
• Alternative nights out – Game nights, karaoke, or Netflix marathons can be just as fun (and cheaper!)

9. Side Hustle Vibes

Got a skill? Turn that into cash. Some easy ways to earn extra money include:

• Freelancing (writing, graphic design, video editing)
• Selling old clothes on Depop, Vinted or even Facebook Marketplace
• Taking online surveys or mystery shopping

A side hustle can give you financial freedom while building valuable experience.

Budgeting as a student isn’t about missing out—it’s about making smart financial choices. By tracking your expenses, taking advantage of discounts, and choosing the right accommodation like Unihousing, you can enjoy student life in Birmingham without financial stress.

Looking for Student Accommodation? Unihousing Can Help!

Here at Unihousing, we have some of the best properties all around Selly Oak with varying prices and sizes depending on whether you want solo or shared living.

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

What to Consider When Looking for a Good Landlord

 What to Consider When Looking for a Good Landlord

Honesty and Transparency

An ideal landlord is upfront and open, offering clear and comprehensive information about the property, tenancy agreement terms, and any potential issues that may arise. They should be transparent about the property's condition, including any past or ongoing maintenance issues, and outline their process for handling repairs or emergencies. Additionally, a good landlord provides clear guidance on rent payments, deposit protection, and any responsibilities tenants are expected to uphold. Open communication from the beginning helps to build a trusting relationship, making it easier to address any concerns or requests that may come up during the tenancy, ultimately creating a smoother and more positive renting experience for everyone involved.

Contact Availability

Choose a landlord who is easy to contact and responsive to messages, as this can make a significant difference during your tenancy. A landlord who promptly replies to calls, texts, or emails ensures that any issues and maintenance needs, are quickly addressed, reducing stress and making your living experience much smoother. When emergencies arise, such as a burst pipe or heating issues, having a readily available landlord can prevent problems from escalating and provide peace of mind that help is always within reach. Ideally, they should provide multiple contact options and clear communication channels so you know exactly how to reach them when needed.

Flexibility

A flexible landlord is more understanding and willing to work with you when issues arise, which can be incredibly valuable during your tenancy. Life is unpredictable, the need for small changes, or unforeseen maintenance problems can happen to anyone. A landlord who can adapt to these situations shows empathy and respects the realities of their tenants' lives. They may also be open to adjustments, like allowing reasonable redecorating or considering a request to extend or shorten the lease if your plans change. This level of understanding creates a positive and supportive relationship, making your living environment more comfortable, stable, and less stressful.

Experience

Look for a landlord who demonstrates competence in property management, as this greatly impacts your living experience. A competent landlord takes a proactive approach to property upkeep, ensuring that everything from essential utilities to general maintenance is handled efficiently and on time. They conduct regular property inspections to spot potential issues early, preventing minor wear and tear from turning into costly or uncomfortable problems. Additionally, a good property manager is well-versed in legal requirements, such as safety checks, and ensuring that smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and gas or electrical certifications are consistently up to date.

Trustworthiness

Trust is crucial when choosing a landlord, as it forms the foundation for a positive and worry-free renting experience. Before signing any agreements, take time to research your landlord online by looking at reviews from previous tenants and checking social media or local housing forums where people often share their experiences. Reviews can reveal insights into their reliability, responsiveness, and how well they maintain their properties. Additionally, check if the landlord is accredited by recognized landlord associations, such as the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) in the UK or similar organizations in your area. Accreditation shows they’ve committed to a professional code of conduct and stay informed about landlord-tenant laws, which means they are more likely to meet standards of fair treatment, property upkeep, and legal compliance.

If all these criteria are met it will significantly increase the likelihood that you will stay happy and stress-free during your tenancy at university. Here at Unihousing, not only do we strive to meet all these needs but we go above and beyond by including utilities in the price of the rent and having a professional maintenance team on call to provide prompt help to any issues that may arise.

Looking for Student Accommodation? Unihousing Can Help!

Here at Unihousing, we have some of the best properties all around Selly Oak with varying prices and sizes depending on whether you want solo or shared living.

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

Living with Housemates in Student Accommodation

Living with Housemates in Student Accommodation.

Choosing to live with housemates is a great experience, one advantage of this is bringing down some expenses. However, it also requires effort to maintain harmony. The key to making this work is to set boundaries and communicate clearly.  Whether you’re best friends with your housemates or you’ve just met, living together positively will require setting boundaries and communicating effectively. We have put together some tips to help you navigate living with housemates.

1. Communicate Openly and Honestly

From the start, establish open lines of communication. Where possible, have conversations about habits, preferences, and expectations. Having such discussions early on helps prevent future misunderstandings.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Generally, we all have our comfort zones and we would love these to be respected. Set clear boundaries where everyone feels comfortable in the available space. Agree on matters such as quiet hours, having guests and the usage of shared spaces and items. Clear boundaries help prevent conflicts and ensure that everyone’s needs are respected.

3. Handle Conflicts Calmly and Respectfully

In most cases, people living in the same space are bound to have conflicts occasionally. This does not mean the friendship is no more. It is important to approach the situation calmly and respectfully to avoid regrets. Discuss how certain things make each of you feel rather than pointing out the other person to be the problem as this only makes the situation worse. Remember, the goal is to find a solution, not to win an argument.

4. Be Considerate and Respectful

Living with other people calls for being mindful and respectful of each other’s space and well-being. Simple acts of consideration can go a long way. Clean up after yourself, be mindful of noise levels, and ask before inviting friends over. Show appreciation for your roommates’ efforts to keep the shared space pleasant. When everyone is considerate, it fosters a positive and respectful living environment.

5. Create a Housemate Agreement

If you’re worried about future conflicts or just want to be proactive, consider creating a housemate agreement with all involved. This can be a simple document outlining agreed-upon rules and expectations for living together. You can include things like cleaning schedules, guest policies, and shared expenses. Having an agreement can help avoid misunderstandings and provide a reference point if issues arise.

Getting along with your housemates and maintaining a healthy living environment doesn’t have to be difficult. Communicate openly, set clear boundaries, handle conflicts with respect, be considerate, and you will find that it is possible to create a positive experience.

Looking for Student Accommodation? Unihousing Can Help!

Here at Unihousing, we have some of the best properties all around Selly Oak with varying prices and sizes depending on whether you want solo or shared living.

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

Our Top Fashion Trends for Students this Spring '23

Spring is right around the corner with all the bright flowers and sunshine closely following making it the perfect time to get outdoors more. Of course, you will also need some fun outfits to welcome the warmer weather, so if you struggling to decide what to wear this season, we have got you covered! Below we have compiled our top tips for spring fashion that you can rock this spring.

 

Bomber Jackets

 

Bomber jackets have made their comeback this year with early signs in 2022. These jackets are sleek and wonderful for those tricky days when wearing a coat is too much, but going out without another layer is too cold! Bomber jackets are great as they can go with anything, making them a great addition to any spring outfit.

 

Denim

 

Denim never dies! Jeans are a very popular fashion trend for the spring, particularly wearing lighter denim which can show off your spring spirit. It is perfect for men and women in almost every situation, so if you haven’t already sourced your spring jeans, this is a must-have for your wardrobe.

 

Turtle Necks

 

Believe it or not, turtle necks have spiked in popularity this spring, especially when worn under a jacket. Not only will they keep you warm on those windy days, but they will also make you look sleeker and more sophisticated.

Trench Coats

 

Trench coats have been rising in popularity in the last year and have made a very trendy comeback just in time for spring fashion. They can be worn with pretty much anything and will always look amazing. With all the designs of trench coats available, there’s one for every person and style out there.

 

Bright Colours

 

Follow in the footsteps of the blooming flowers and wear your brightly coloured clothes to really bring out the spring atmosphere this 2023. Chose whatever suits you most and experiment with different colours and patterns. With the right combination, you’ll stand out in style amongst the rest!

Start Looking for Your Student Accommodation with Unihousing Today

Now is a great time to start looking for next year’s accommodation! With some of the best properties all around Selly Oak, Unihousing also offers varying prices and sizes depending on whether you want solo or shared living.

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodation. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

Time to Be a Student Chef!

With university being potentially the first time many have independence away from home, this may be the first time you have had to plan cooking for yourself. Here are some simple recipes to make that will be easy and tasty!

 

Pasta Bake

A pasta bake is wonderful for any beginner cook and can be made with exactly what you like. Pasta is quick, easy and inexpensive, making it wonderful when trying to manage your money at Uni. Pasta can also be very easily made for multiple people too which makes it a go-to when it comes to having guests over for dinner.

 

 

Curry 

The beauty of curry is it can be as complex or as simple as you want it to be. Whether you buy a premade jar with rice or make it from scratch it will always taste amazing and fragrant. With there being so many variations of curry, there is something out there for everyone to enjoy.

 

Traybake 

Traybakes are especially valuable to a student as they not only taste amazing, but they don’t require as much attention to make due to them being made in the oven. This means during your wait you could get some studying done or clean up your living space. Traybakes can also serve lots of people which means it’s wonderful when having people over for dinner.

 

 

Soup 

Soups may seem bland, however,
stored soup tins usually stay in date for a very long time making them an ideal backup for student meals. They are also very inexpensive making this an excellent meal for everyone to have at least a few of in their household.

 

 

Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are simple and are great with anything. Potatoes are also very cheap to buy and can be prepared in many different ways making them perfect for any meal. Potatoes also keep for a very long time which is amazing when it comes to saving money as a student.

 

Stir Fry 

Stir-frying can be amazingly delicious, very quick to make, and healthy! This meal is particularly perfect for those who hate standing around and waiting when cooking. Noodles are also very easy to cook and don’t require much more than warm water and seasoning.

 

Fajitas 

Fajitas are for those who may want something a little spicier and more interesting, they’re easy to whip up and perfect for any friend get-together. While they may seem daunting and difficult when it comes to handling multiple things to cook, they can be as simple or as complex as you want them to be.

 

 

What is Unihousing?

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodations. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unihousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham for 3 years running by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

Contact Unihousing today to find out more!

 

 

Hobbies to Pick Up While at University

 

When you’re a university student, it can be challenging to balance your study life with your free time. Although it is important to make time for your studies, don’t forget to take advantage of your free time too. Here are a few hobbies to do during your stay at the university.

 

Reading

 

Reading is easy to fit around your schedule and is a perfect hobby for your productivity. It boosts imagination and trains your mind to read more proficiently while widening your vocabulary. With thousands of books these days, there's a book out there for everyone

 

 

 

 

Running

 

Running is amazing for your health and is extremely versatile, as it can be done almost anywhere and at a time that suits you. The flexibility is very useful and gives you the freedom to study at the times you need and do something you enjoy when you have some spare time.

 

 

 

Sports

 

Most universities should provide facilities for sports such as football, basketball or volleyball, which are great to get into. Not only are they literally on your doorstep if you’re living near the university, but you also have the chance to meet new people and potentially gain scholarships if you are particularly good at your sport.

 

 

Music

 

Learning a musical instrument is great for your creativity and freedom of expression and you may even find that it reduces stress levels when playing. Another benefit is that you can play at all times without restriction to weather or time.

 

 

Painting

 

With painting your imagination is the limit and you have total freedom to express yourself and show your style of art, which can be calming and very enjoyable to get into. Art has thousands of ways in how it can be uniquely expressed, using all kinds of materials to achieve this. The ability to create art wherever you want also makes this hobby easy to pursue

at a time suitable to you.

 

 

 

Cooking

 

At university you will have to learn how to cook for yourself, so it’s very useful to make a hobby out of it and have fun trying new recipes and experimenting with your own. You can also try exploring new things while you cook, like using more unique ingredients, spices and techniques too. This adds a new element of fun and a sense of achievement when you make something of your own. With ample time to use this hobby, it is also essential to your independence at university.

 

 

 

Find Your Ideal Student Accommodation with Unihousing

 

Unihousing is a student accommodation provider near the University of Birmingham, operating since 1984. All of our accommodation in Selly Oak is owned by us, so we can respond quickly to any requests using our qualified team of tradesmen. Our property office is located on Bristol Road, only a short walk away from all of our accommodation. This means we can deal directly with our tenants.

Unhousing was selected as the Number 1 Student Letting Agent in Birmingham by the UK's biggest fresher community, Unifresher.

 

Contact Unihousing today to find out more.