THE HORROR OF HALLS
Living in student halls is a significant change. Moving out of your parents’ home to share a space with strangers can seem overwhelming at first. And if you’re coming from across the world, it can feel even more intimidating. That’s how the first year in Glasgow was for me. Even though I’d seen photos of the halls, I still had a tiny voice in my head worrying that the room might be shabby, the kitchen small, and that I might end up regretting my decision.
Fortunately, that wasn’t the case. My accommodation turned out to be quite lovely, perhaps even better than I expected. But then came the challenge: adapting to the student culture. I might come off as dull, but I didn’t attend any of the Fresher’s Week events — not the parties, at least. During the day? I was there, sneaking peeks, picking up some plants, T-shirts, and art for my room. But at night? I couldn’t wait to get back to my room, where I was trying hard to make it as comfortable and cozy as possible.
Initially, I felt a bit left out while scrolling through the university’s Instagram, thinking I should have been there, wishing I could have pushed myself to go out and experience the famous university vibe everyone talks about. But the truth is, you really don’t have to if you don’t want to. If you’re like me, an introvert, you might find it easier to stay home and not feel left out. I chose to spend those moments browsing Amazon for new room decorations or exploring stores around Buchanan Street for small trinkets to make my space feel cozy. I love the warm feeling that the fairy lights give, so I bought some from shops like Flying Tiger and Sosterne Grene.
Gradually, I shaped my room into what I wanted. Every corner contains a piece of who I am: posters of my favourite bands, a Monet painting I love, and my little mug collection. These small pieces of me are tucked here and there, and that’s why, no matter how tired or sad I feel, this little sanctuary remains constant and embraces me unconditionally. One of my first purchases was a plant from the Freshers’ Week sale. After two years, it’s grown tall and beautiful, adding life to the room. A touch of greenery can make a big difference. More than that, it’s a living thing you care for, reminding you that you’re not completely alone, even when you feel like you are.
I’ve had good flatmates, so far, but there have been moments when I was woken up by their loud voices at 2 am or annoyed by some who seemed never to have picked up a broom in their lives. My approach to dealing with a problematic flatmate is to start by politely letting them know they are bothering you. If the behaviour continues, you should involve the accommodation staff. However, do remember that many of your flatmates may be learning to navigate life independently for the first time, just like yourself, so it’s best to be understanding and go easy on each other.
Overall, although the transition can be daunting, whether you travel across the country or the world, it can also be a wonderful new experience where you get to call the shots and decide how to make your time in the halls the best it can be. These halls don’t have to be horrible; adding a touch of your personality—things that make you, you—won’t just brighten up the room, but can also serve as a great reminder that no matter how hard things get out there, you have your own little haven to retreat to, where you always feel safe.
