Halls versus Home
Life at university is much more than the qualification you will gain, you'll also graduate with years of friendship and memories.
You may worry that to fully experience this, you need to live away from home, but that's not the case. We've put together some information to help you decide which is the best option for you.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to live at home or in student accommodation is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and the right choice will vary depending on you and your individual circumstances.
University managed accommodation
The 香港六合论坛 offers a range of university managed accommodation, both off and on-campus. Living in university-owned halls can be a great way to make new friends but there are specific pros and cons you might want to consider:
Advantages
- Guaranteed first-year accommodation for applicable applicants
- University accommodation can be a good transition if living away from home for the first time
- It's a great way to make new friends and immerse yourself within the student community
- Both catered and self-catered options are available
- Accessible facilities and adapted rooms available on request
- Campus security: Monday to Friday, 4:30pm-6:00am, 24 hours at weekends
- All utility bills are included
- Internet access is included
Disadvantages
- You may not get the accommodation you requested due to the random selection process
- In the majority of cases you are only eligible for halls accommodation in your first year
- You may want more separation between your study and home environments
- You don't get to pick your flat mates, you'll likely meet them when you move in
- You cannot bring a car when you live in on campus accommodation
- Sharing kitchen facilities with a your flat mates means working together to keep tidy
- You may find there is more distraction and noise
- You may get home-sick, but the university has great services to help if you're struggling
Private housing
You may prefer to find private housing in or around Chichester or Bognor Regis; this is rentable accommodation from private landlords. The main local letting agency used is
Advantages
- More independence away from university and home
- Private living space and possibly more facilities depending on the property you find
- You may prefer a clear separation between where you live and university
- Possible parking spaces may be available at the property
Disadvantages
- Bills and utilities may not be included in the total rent cost
- Private housing tends to be more expensive overall
- You could feel distanced from your course mates if they're in university managed accommodation
- Private housing often comes unfurnished so you may have to consider additional furniture costs
Living at home
If you live locally, you may have the opportunity to live at home while at university. Many students take this option but it does come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages
- You have your home comforts
- You may be able to live rent-free or at a reduced cost
- Getting to stay in your local area can be reassuring
- You may like a clear separation between your home life and university studies
- You may have less distractions living at home
- You may make more effort to join societies and make friends when at university
Disadvantages
- You may have to commute if you live outside of the local area
- Commuting costs may vary, whether driving or relying on public transport
- You may feel distanced from your peers if they're living in university halls or local housing
- You may have less independence and privacy
- Your days may be longer if you commute, leaving you tired
- Traffic and hold ups en-route to university may cause you stress
- You might feel like you're missing out on social events
There are a variety of accommodation possibilities to choose from when beginning your university journey. Whether you commute from home, find private housing, or select university halls, there is a option for everyone. It's important to remember that it's a personal decision and you may not immediately know which option will work best for you.
