Although halls of residence has it’s benefits, one year is enough
Living in halls of residence is overrated, overpriced, and too bloody loud. If I’d gotten a pound every time I was kept awake in the night because of some ridiculous drunken person feeling the need to share his feelings with the rest of London by screaming out of his window I’d be a millionaire. I’m not kidding. I’d be swamped in cash. Probably could’ve bought my own unicorn.
£170 a week for a room (read: cupboard) smaller than our garden shed at home. £170 for a window that would only open 8in in case you should have any “crazy ideas” (although, I have to confess, the lock on my window was broken. I “accidentally” put the lock on every time they had an inspection and “forgot” to ask them to fix it. Call me crazy: it was my way of getting back on them for financially ruining me). £170 for a mattress with springs stabbing your back every night. I might as well have flushed £170 down the toilet every week.
The thing is though, with the real estate market in London being as insane as it is, and, the fact that many students coming to City aren’t from the city, staying in halls during the first year is the most convenient choice. I surely couldn’t spare the money, time or energy to fly over to London in a desperate attempt to find a place on my own before starting uni.
The funny thing is that when I stayed in halls last year I somehow managed to trick my brain into believing that “it wasn’t that bad”. Probably as a survival strategy so I wouldn’t break down sobbing uncontrollably over the money I’d wasted.
But honestly, it wasn’t that bad. It’s a great way to make friends when starting off with a clean slate, and it’s quite nice that every party is only a few feet away. I first realised how much better private accommodation was when I’d kissed my cell in halls goodbye. It was alright when it lasted, but one year was enough. Although it does feel eerily quiet falling asleep without the reassuring sound of drunk people in the background. I think I’ll manage though.
This year I live in a flat in Hoxton: a 15-minute walk from uni, £150 a week and I can actually move freely in my room without either bumping into my desk, bed or closet. Incredibly liberating. And the best part? It kind of feels like home. Not like a sterile asylum for mad people.
Photo: http://www.superstock.com/stock-photos-images/1848-268010