Prep yourself with what to expect!

Preparing to arrive in Cardiff this September? Read on to find out what you can expect during your first week once you get to the accommodation!

1. Pick up your keys and start moving in!

We'll be waiting to welcome you at your accommodation key collection if you are arriving during a booked slot. You'll need to present a copy of your offer of accommodation and some ID (driving license or passport are fine!) in order to pick up your key. Once you receive the key, we'll give you a quick explanation of how they work and some important things to know when moving in. We'll also give you a lanyard specifically for your accommodation to keep your key card and ID safe.

2. Need to pick up some essentials?

Whether you need to do your first food shop, pick up some items you forgot to bring or just want to have a browse around the city shops - we've got you covered. Our RLAs will be available to answer questions and give directions all day 10am - 8.30pm during Arrivals so we can point you in the direction of the nearest supermarket or store.

3. Issues with IT?

Connecting to the university network can be a bit mind boggling the first time. There will be a QR code provided in your room to start this process but if you're having trouble, we'll have our IT staff on hand at the accommodation to help you get connected. Look out for signs when you arrive to see where they are based.

4. Get to know the area and other students

Every evening of Arrivals, we'll be hosting site tours. Come along to where you picked up your keys at 5.30pm to meet up with the RLAs and they'll take you on a tour of the site pointing out the important places (i.e. Reception, laundry facilities and the gym) as you go around. This is a great way to get your bearings and also make some new friends who also live in your accommodation. If you're enjoying the new company you've made, we'll also be hosting a chilled welcome event at the Centre for Student Life right after so you can walk over together. If you're fancying more of a wild night out, we can drop you off at the SU to attend some of their events instead!

5. Get some freebies

After each tour, we'll also be doing spinning wheels with prizes. You can get stocked up for your new room with a selection of prizes such as pot noodles, succulents, mugs and even some gift cards to buy yourself some decorations. This is just the beginning of freebies you can get from us - make sure to attend more events to see what else is up for grabs!

6. Get your life admin sorted

Over the first few days in the accommodation, it's a good idea to get yourself sorted for the year. Things like updating addresses for Amazon orders, phone bills etc. You will also be given a slot to pick up your new University ID card if you haven't already received it. The SU will be hosting plenty of activities to help get you settled too (their poster sale is always a hit during the first few weeks!).

7. Meet your RLA

If you haven't already met them at arrivals, you'll get the chance to meet your RLAs for the year during Freshers Week. We'll be coming round to your flats in the evenings to introduce ourselves, bring you some more freebies and let you know about how we can support you throughout the year.

8. Attend your academic inductions

During Freshers Week, there will normally some sort of induction for your course. You'll be sent details of this via email and this is a great chance to meet your coursemates, get to know your academic buildings and learn what prep you need to do for your course.

9. Get a taster of our events for the year!

During Freshers Week, we'll be hosting events Mon-Thurs evenings and on Saturday. This is a chance to get a taste of our free events, meet other students in your accommodation and start feeling like a part of the community. We will be running meet ups for international students & postgrads, speed friending and craft events to get you started.