Defer for a year?

Hello,

I have applied to go to Southampton this year, it's been my first choice since the beginning, put in for my accomodation when we were told to do so, found I got in due to getting my A-level results, but I've just been informed that I haven't been able to get any of my three accomodation choices, and upon calling was told that the only choice was either to go for a standard catered room in Wessex lane, or share a room twinned up.

Being a nervous and shy person and worrying about the start of university as it is, I'd probably rather not share a room and I tend to work best when I'm on my own and can focus on something, and going catered would be difficult as I tend to eat at odd times and would rather not be limited to certain choices. I was really hoping for a selfcatered room to myself.

Therefore, with the accomodation front not looking too good, it's been pushing me closer to a thought I've had for a while - deferring for a year. I worked very hard in the last 2 years of school and barely had any time to spend with friends, family or even working on the things I enjoy. Furthermore, for the course I'm applying for, I am not overly prepared for as I wasn't able to take the subject at school (my school didn't offer it).

Hence, I've been considering seeing if I would be able to defer for a year, so I could spend some time at home, catch up on my course and get some useful work experience, as once you go to university, there's not an oppurtunity like this again. Furthermore, due to not having to wait for A-level results to validate accomodation choices, I might be able to get a selfcatered room to myself next year.

What I was wondering is, is this possible - would I be able to keep my place at the university, but defer entry to next year?

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated

Reply 1

Ancient18

You would have to talk that through with your department as it's up to them to decide.

However i really think just because of accomodation deferring isn't to smart.
Also i am sure if you want to work in piece and quiet you could find some spot where you can do so (library?)

Reply 2

swiftuk

You usually only share for a few weeks - if you are sharing, you have a priority to move of some sort.

I wouldn't look at deferring because of it - some unis have accommodation that is shared all year round. There is good pastoral support, and there are places you can work in peace.

Reply 3

Bass

I might have to share for a few weeks but then I'll be moving into my own room. It's not ideal but not a big deal really. You shouldn't let accommodation be the reason for defering for a year. However the reasons you stated such as wanting to spend more time with friends and family is a good reason for defering. My advice would be that if you're unsure then a year out might be a good idea.

Reply 4

Tascl

If its still applicable its really easy to defer. I rang up southampton and deferred and they were very helpful - it was quick 'n easy.

Reply 5

mvg105

I wouldnt if i were u! i was in connaught, the catered halls in a standard room sharing with some1 for 6weeks and i enjoyed it. the food times arent tht weird and its breakfast plus 1 meal. i rarely made it to breakfast but its easy to make it on time to 1 of the meals and then cook for urself the other one. deferring just for accomodation would be stupid.

Also every1 will be at the same stage as you in your course, i had never studied my subject before going to uni and its not that much of a difference! As for sharing a room its not the worst, im living with the guy i shared a room with because i got on really well with him, they are likely to be more normal than you think and its nice in freshers week when you dont really know anyone to have someone else to go about with! Also part of university is to get out of you comfort zone and experience new things so perhaps it would be good to share with someone! hope this is been helpful, if i were you I would def not defer, uni is awesome, especially the more you put in and the more you get involved!