The Student Room Group

questions for uni bc i’m stressing

Doing a foundation year at sussex, doing a computer science course Do I need any of this stuff?

1. An Ipad or computer to carry around. I am planning on taking one but my one is too big to be constantly carrying to lectures. They are very expensive but an electron device seems useful especially for my degree. But then again, it’s a foundation year so idk.

2. Am I allowed a kettle or mini fridge in my room? I don’t have any medical reasons.

3. How thin are the walls, could i be on face-time with someone, taking at a normal volume and no one will hear me? Or like if I put an alarm on, how likely would it be to wake up others?

4. If I want to get a job, do I need to be using my passport as an ID? I heard that I had to but why not like a license.

5. Do uni rooms come with a safe or so I have to hide my valuable items/keep them on me?

6. In terms of bugs and pests, is there anything I need to buy to keep them at bay or just get rid of them?

7. If I want to get a job within campus, when should I be trying to get this? How early on during the year because I’m guessing they go quick? Is it student union or do I just walk up to the place and ask if i’m hiring? ALSO, do I still need to provide a CV? Or will an ID just work?

8. Do I need a mattress stopped or is a bedsheet just fine?

9. Trying to find a suitable bank to use, I’m looking at all the different perks and they all sound good and bad in their own way, so what does everyone use and why do they recommend it?

10. I know lectures are going to be very busy at the start, so how early should I get there to ensure I am on time and I get a good seat?
Original post by Anonymous
1. An Ipad or computer to carry around. I am planning on taking one but my one is too big to be constantly carrying to lectures. They are very expensive but an electron device seems useful especially for my degree. But then again, it’s a foundation year so idk.

Many people prefer to use an electronic device (e.g. an iPad or a small laptop) to take notes during lectures, rather than using pen and paper. But using pen and paper is perfectly fine is that's what you prefer and are used to. The university will provide shared IT facilities for doing any coding etc. However, expect many students to have laptops of their own to do this on, which can often be more convenient.

Original post by Anonymous
2. Am I allowed a kettle or mini fridge in my room? I don’t have any medical reasons.

No. See the Banned Items section in their accommodation handbook, which bans the following items from being stored or used in bedrooms:
Kettles (provided in kitchens)
Toasters (provided in kitchens)
Microwaves (provided in kitchens)
Clothes Irons (provided in kitchens)
Mini Fridges (unless provided by University after declaring medical need)
Rice cookers
Air Fryers
Sandwich makers/panini press/grills
Coffee machines
Clothes airers

Original post by Anonymous
3. How thin are the walls, could i be on face-time with someone, taking at a normal volume and no one will hear me? Or like if I put an alarm on, how likely would it be to wake up others?

No idea. Sorry.

Original post by Anonymous
4. If I want to get a job, do I need to be using my passport as an ID? I heard that I had to but why not like a license.

In addition to checking that you are who you say you are, employers also need to check that you have the right to work in the UK. This can be evidenced in a variety of ways, but if you're a UK passport holder then simply showing your passport is the simplest way.

Original post by Anonymous
5. Do uni rooms come with a safe or so I have to hide my valuable items/keep them on me?

Your door will lock, and is therefore a room-size safe. :smile:

Original post by Anonymous
6. In terms of bugs and pests, is there anything I need to buy to keep them at bay or just get rid of them?

If you're bothered by the occasional fly, you might want to bring to fly spray. But you won't need anything more than that. The accommodation team will be responsible for dealing with those sort of issues. (See the Pest Control section on page 16 of the Accommodation Handbook - link above.)

Original post by Anonymous
7. If I want to get a job within campus, when should I be trying to get this? How early on during the year because I’m guessing they go quick? Is it student union or do I just walk up to the place and ask if i’m hiring? ALSO, do I still need to provide a CV? Or will an ID just work?

Applying as soon as possible makes sense because, as you say, the best jobs will go quickly. See the "Jobs on campus" section on the "Student jobs" section of their web site for further details.. You can see details of individual jobs via CareerHub (login required).

Original post by Anonymous
8. Do I need a mattress stopped or is a bedsheet just fine?

It's up to you, some people like to use a mattress topper for a little bit of added comfort, but some are perfectly happy with just a sheet. Note that a mattress protector will be supplied (and must be used).

Original post by Anonymous
9. Trying to find a suitable bank to use, I’m looking at all the different perks and they all sound good and bad in their own way, so what does everyone use and why do they recommend it?

Only you can decide which particular perks are of interest to you. Is access to a local branch important to you (or do you plan to interact with you bank entirely on-line)? If so, have you checked what branches are local to the university?

Original post by Anonymous
10. I know lectures are going to be very busy at the start, so how early should I get there to ensure I am on time and I get a good seat?

You might have to play this by ear a little. Try arriving 10 minutes early. If you're the first one there, you know you can afford to arrive a little later for the next one. Similarly, if the place is packed, then arrive earlier for the next one. :smile:
Reply 2
Original post by DataVenia
Many people prefer to use an electronic device (e.g. an iPad or a small laptop) to take notes during lectures, rather than using pen and paper. But using pen and paper is perfectly fine is that's what you prefer and are used to. The university will provide shared IT facilities for doing any coding etc. However, expect many students to have laptops of their own to do this on, which can often be more convenient.
No. See the Banned Items section in their accommodation handbook, which bans the following items from being stored or used in bedrooms:
Kettles (provided in kitchens)
Toasters (provided in kitchens)
Microwaves (provided in kitchens)
Clothes Irons (provided in kitchens)
Mini Fridges (unless provided by University after declaring medical need)
Rice cookers
Air Fryers
Sandwich makers/panini press/grills
Coffee machines
Clothes airers
No idea. Sorry.
In addition to checking that you are who you say you are, employers also need to check that you have the right to work in the UK. This can be evidenced in a variety of ways, but if you're a UK passport holder then simply showing your passport is the simplest way.
Your door will lock, and is therefore a room-size safe. :smile:
If you're bothered by the occasional fly, you might want to bring to fly spray. But you won't need anything more than that. The accommodation team will be responsible for dealing with those sort of issues. (See the Pest Control section on page 16 of the Accommodation Handbook - link above.)
Applying as soon as possible makes sense because, as you say, the best jobs will go quickly. See the "Jobs on campus" section on the "Student jobs" section of their web site for further details.. You can see details of individual jobs via CareerHub (login required).
It's up to you, some people like to use a mattress topper for a little bit of added comfort, but some are perfectly happy with just a sheet. Note that a mattress protector will be supplied (and must be used).
Only you can decide which particular perks are of interest to you. Is access to a local branch important to you (or do you plan to interact with you bank entirely on-line)? If so, have you checked what branches are local to the university?
You might have to play this by ear a little. Try arriving 10 minutes early. If you're the first one there, you know you can afford to arrive a little later for the next one. Similarly, if the place is packed, then arrive earlier for the next one. :smile:
thank you so much this was very hepful
Original post by Anonymous
thank you so much this was very hepful

You're very welcome. :smile:
Original post by Anonymous
Doing a foundation year at sussex, doing a computer science course Do I need any of this stuff?
1. An Ipad or computer to carry around. I am planning on taking one but my one is too big to be constantly carrying to lectures. They are very expensive but an electron device seems useful especially for my degree. But then again, it’s a foundation year so idk.
2. Am I allowed a kettle or mini fridge in my room? I don’t have any medical reasons.
3. How thin are the walls, could i be on face-time with someone, taking at a normal volume and no one will hear me? Or like if I put an alarm on, how likely would it be to wake up others?
4. If I want to get a job, do I need to be using my passport as an ID? I heard that I had to but why not like a license.
5. Do uni rooms come with a safe or so I have to hide my valuable items/keep them on me?
6. In terms of bugs and pests, is there anything I need to buy to keep them at bay or just get rid of them?
7. If I want to get a job within campus, when should I be trying to get this? How early on during the year because I’m guessing they go quick? Is it student union or do I just walk up to the place and ask if i’m hiring? ALSO, do I still need to provide a CV? Or will an ID just work?
8. Do I need a mattress stopped or is a bedsheet just fine?
9. Trying to find a suitable bank to use, I’m looking at all the different perks and they all sound good and bad in their own way, so what does everyone use and why do they recommend it?
10. I know lectures are going to be very busy at the start, so how early should I get there to ensure I am on time and I get a good seat?

Hi there,

Let's get straight to the point.

1) In general - having your own laptop is very useful. However, some universities (like De Montfort) do allow students to take laptops from library. Also our library for example is open 24/7 and it has numerous pc's available :smile:

2) Usually - yes. But it's better to check with accommodation provider. I knew people who had not only fridges but also small stoves. I wouldn't say those things are too necessary, as they are freely available in shared kitchen

3) It depends. Walls are indeed quite thin - but not as bad as they could be. In total silence of morning you might hear someones alarm (just a bit). But during the day it's quite inlikely that you would be able to distinguish what people around you are talking about.

4) It depends. They might ask you for a passport to prove your right to work. Any international even on tourist visa might have a licence for example.

5) I have never seen any safes in student dorms.

6) I'm living in student dorms for 4 years already and have never had a problem with bugs.

7) As soon as possible. Generally those might be advertised to you during the freshers week.

8) It depends on your preferences, for me the later option is fine.

9) I personally use Monzo as they have a very cool app. Some of my friends use Barclays or Loyds. I would advice to go through major banks' websites and compare their options.

10) In my experience, coming 10 minutes before is more than enough 😀


Please, let me know if you have any questions,

Take care,
Ilya
Original post by Anonymous
Doing a foundation year at sussex, doing a computer science course Do I need any of this stuff?
1. An Ipad or computer to carry around. I am planning on taking one but my one is too big to be constantly carrying to lectures. They are very expensive but an electron device seems useful especially for my degree. But then again, it’s a foundation year so idk.
2. Am I allowed a kettle or mini fridge in my room? I don’t have any medical reasons.
3. How thin are the walls, could i be on face-time with someone, taking at a normal volume and no one will hear me? Or like if I put an alarm on, how likely would it be to wake up others?
4. If I want to get a job, do I need to be using my passport as an ID? I heard that I had to but why not like a license.
5. Do uni rooms come with a safe or so I have to hide my valuable items/keep them on me?
6. In terms of bugs and pests, is there anything I need to buy to keep them at bay or just get rid of them?
7. If I want to get a job within campus, when should I be trying to get this? How early on during the year because I’m guessing they go quick? Is it student union or do I just walk up to the place and ask if i’m hiring? ALSO, do I still need to provide a CV? Or will an ID just work?
8. Do I need a mattress stopped or is a bedsheet just fine?
9. Trying to find a suitable bank to use, I’m looking at all the different perks and they all sound good and bad in their own way, so what does everyone use and why do they recommend it?
10. I know lectures are going to be very busy at the start, so how early should I get there to ensure I am on time and I get a good seat?

Hey I would suggest having either a laptop or an iPad whichever device is going to be more comfortable for you to take notes on for lectures and to use throughout university. I preferred my laptop just as I liked the keyboard better but some of my friends had iPads.

In terms of having a safe in the room, mine didn’t I stayed in Eastslope for my first year. The rooms are secure and did lock so I didn’t feel worried about leaving my valuables in the room. The walls were thin but I never got disturbed by someone else’s alarm and they also didn’t hear mine.

I ended up buying a mattress topper but that wasn’t really necessary I just wanted it. They provide a mattress protector but I bought one with me too.

Hope that helps with some of your questions.
Original post by Anonymous
Doing a foundation year at sussex, doing a computer science course Do I need any of this stuff?1. An Ipad or computer to carry around. I am planning on taking one but my one is too big to be constantly carrying to lectures. They are very expensive but an electron device seems useful especially for my degree. But then again, it’s a foundation year so idk.2. Am I allowed a kettle or mini fridge in my room? I don’t have any medical reasons.3. How thin are the walls, could i be on face-time with someone, taking at a normal volume and no one will hear me? Or like if I put an alarm on, how likely would it be to wake up others?4. If I want to get a job, do I need to be using my passport as an ID? I heard that I had to but why not like a license. 5. Do uni rooms come with a safe or so I have to hide my valuable items/keep them on me?6. In terms of bugs and pests, is there anything I need to buy to keep them at bay or just get rid of them?7. If I want to get a job within campus, when should I be trying to get this? How early on during the year because I’m guessing they go quick? Is it student union or do I just walk up to the place and ask if i’m hiring? ALSO, do I still need to provide a CV? Or will an ID just work?8. Do I need a mattress stopped or is a bedsheet just fine?9. Trying to find a suitable bank to use, I’m looking at all the different perks and they all sound good and bad in their own way, so what does everyone use and why do they recommend it? 10. I know lectures are going to be very busy at the start, so how early should I get there to ensure I am on time and I get a good seat?
Hi, im a second year sussex student

1.

I would HIGHLY recommend to bring a laptop/ipad to lectures, there is so much content you won’t be able to write fast enough

2.

You’re not supposed to have them in your room but I had a mini fridge in mine, just be aware staff come into your room unannounced to do checks sometimes

3.

The walls are really thick in east slope, i could scream from my room and my neighbour wouldn’t hear me

4.

Not sure sorry

5.

No safe provided, but i felt like all my valuables were safe anyways

6.

I had no issue with bugs in my room in east slope

7.

Maybe go through the student union, but asking in person wouldn’t hurt

8.

You should get a mattress topper

9.

I use natwest and it’s good, you get £100 from them when you sign up

10.

3 mins early should be fine, some lecture halls are really big and are never full, some are tiny and fill up fast so it depends on the room

Reply 7
Original post by fhrhfuehsjidhrhr
Hi, im a second year sussex student

1.

I would HIGHLY recommend to bring a laptop/ipad to lectures, there is so much content you won’t be able to write fast enough

2.

You’re not supposed to have them in your room but I had a mini fridge in mine, just be aware staff come into your room unannounced to do checks sometimes

3.

The walls are really thick in east slope, i could scream from my room and my neighbour wouldn’t hear me

4.

Not sure sorry

5.

No safe provided, but i felt like all my valuables were safe anyways

6.

I had no issue with bugs in my room in east slope

7.

Maybe go through the student union, but asking in person wouldn’t hurt

8.

You should get a mattress topper

9.

I use natwest and it’s good, you get £100 from them when you sign up

10.

3 mins early should be fine, some lecture halls are really big and are never full, some are tiny and fill up fast so it depends on the room

About the mini fridge, when they did the room checks - what did they say?

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