@Jess_LomasCongrats on booking your accommodation! You did it!
Moving is always stressful so it's perfectly normal to have a range of feelings about moving into university accommodation.
Maybe the most important thing for you to do now is to address your concerns, to remember that your worst case scenario will probably not happen and that if does, you know how to handle it!
1
)'it's really loud and people are having parties all night every night'At the start of term, you may have people going out a lot, coming back late or throwing a party, but things will settle down when life gets busier with studies or when the finances begin to go It is unlikely that housemates will be throwing parties every night, but when you move in, it might be a good idea to introduce yourself to your housemates and to have an informal meeting where you can address any worries or concerns about the kitchen, music, noise etc..
Also do be honest about your autism so that your housemates can know how best to support you and so that they can understand that something that might seem really insignificant to them, actually makes a big difference to you, whether that's light, noise or routine.
2)'
someone has a party and steals all your food'Student accommodation means that you only have limited space for food, so most of that will be daily items which don't make great party food. It's not uncommon for some students to help themselves to something from somebody else's shelf if they have run out of something, but they are unlikely to take everything from your shelf in the fridge as it would be clear that they had stolen your food. Parties are also normally about drinking rather than eating. If you feel really worried about housemates stealing food for a party, you can always store snacks in your room.
3)'
what if I never get past feeling homesick'Again, it's normal to miss home and everything that is familiar. It will take time to get used to a new routine and to settle and it's great that you know that you can always go home for the weekend, but it is also important to give things a go. If you go home every weekend, you might miss out on socials, events and opportunities to get to know people better. It might also become quite tiring. Definitely have it as an option, but try not to rely on going home every weekend. Perhaps have a regular time each week when you call home, or when someone from home calls you. You could also ask them to come and visit, as that might help you feel more comfortable about being in a new place.
Change is always scary, so do seek support from friends and family who know you well and do feel free to contact your accommodation or the university if you continue to feel stressed. They are there to help you get the most out of university life.
All the best,
Oluwatosin – 2nd year student – University of Huddersfield