Uni halls vs private halls London First Year

Hi all,

Have been looking at private halls for accommodation as a first year (starting uni in september)... I would prefer living in a studio (private halls) as opposed to ensuite (uni halls) because I want my own space. Also I'm more of an early morning person than a late night worker - don't know if this would change when I go to uni.

I would hope to spend some free time at uni halls - particularly in the first few months to get to know people - so I wouldn't be missing out on the social aspects. Also, at the end of the day I would prefer to sort out what kind of room I'm getting as early as possible - rather than be told about my second/third choice accommodation in uni halls, a few weeks before term starts.

so my question is: Are there many first years in private halls? What's the experience like for them? or am I totally missing something here, and private halls are not for first years?

I lived in private halls for my first year (WAAAAAAAAAY expensive)...

Anyway, I would actually advise against it unless you are one of these outgoing people who actively seek others out or go partying on a regular basis or have friends over (however close).
It can get incredibly depressing if you have nothing to do, your mates are revising or simply can't come over for whatever reason. At least you have flat mates there.

I wouldn't go for a private hall again if I could help it...
Am now living with 2 mates starting next year (September this year) and couldn't be happier (and the rent is half what I was paying in my first year). =D

Hi all,

Have been looking at private halls for accommodation as a first year (starting uni in september)... I would prefer living in a studio (private halls) as opposed to ensuite (uni halls) because I want my own space. Also I'm more of an early morning person than a late night worker - don't know if this would change when I go to uni.

I would hope to spend some free time at uni halls - particularly in the first few months to get to know people - so I wouldn't be missing out on the social aspects. Also, at the end of the day I would prefer to sort out what kind of room I'm getting as early as possible - rather than be told about my second/third choice accommodation in uni halls, a few weeks before term starts.

so my question is: Are there many first years in private halls? What's the experience like for them? or am I totally missing something here, and private halls are not for first years?

I lived in private halls in my first year and loved it (i also stayed in a studio for the same reason as you!). I was worried about how it might effect my social life too but didn't find it a problem at all. I made friends on my course, by joining societes and just generally around uni but also got the added bonus of making friends in my accommodation who didn't go to my uni.

I stayed in a place called liberty house which is a great location and everyone there is so friendly including the staff! My friends from uni were actually jelous haha.

Anyway, hope this helps!

Thank you - glad to hear it worked out well for someone!