HALLS!

Living in halls was so interesting for me. I remember when my friends that were about to go into their second year telling me that halls were so much fun! Endearing memories for them that were quite possibly going to be heartfelt for me. So let's discuss living in Halls.

So first day of halls was super weird. There were already people in the flat that were already there when I had moved in but I wasn't aware what kind of people I would be living with or the kind of experiences I would be exposed to. But it began, I met my first flatmate of whom I adore to this day! She and I were both so nervous about living and just chatted about everything as if we had never not known each other. Our first night, we went to the Student Union to get accompanied into everything. The university lifestyle was in full swing! Then of course the two weeks of freshers which of course including the sleepless nights, and partying . The first few months were such a ball until of course we started to get really settled.

After Christmas, uni work was on its way and we of course did not know that socialising was not as important. The cleaning in the flat also went downhill. For someone with a pet hate of uncleanliness, I can honestly say that living with people that did not share the same enjoyment for a clean environment is not easy. I am also not a massive fan of being in an environment of loud noises but not everyone shared my consensus. The worst thing for me I remember was the state of the kitchen more than anything. Okay, everyone argued about dishes and what made it more difficult was that the whole flat would be held responsible during flat inspections.. We consequently had some really long arguments that consisted of blaming one another of not washing dishes, not cleaning after ourselves and so on which obviously did not help in solving anything. A few weeks of the blaming game and we then a solution was brought forward. A simple cleaning rota was proposed with the added benefit of the rota being done in pairs. Quite honestly one would assume that this would be the best thing that came out of collective arguing within our flat in regards to cleaning but it made things worse. Looking back on this particular situation, I would like to think that it was only made worse because some pairs were willing to only take on certain chores and avoid others. By avoiding chores it was usually taking the kitchen bins out. No one like doing it however it had to be done.

Another thing I feel is really important for many people to appreciate is doing their washing. Clothing that is. And appreciate clean clothes because Mother is not with you to do it for you. I did not appreciate the luxury of not doing my own washing as much as when I started to really do it myself. And as weird as it is, knowing what detergents to use is really important as well as it determines how your clothes will smell etc.  One should not doubt the power of detergent!

In conclusion what I learnt from living in halls was how much I hated living in an unclean environment. I also learnt how to enjoy my own space and appreciate space. To this day I really appreciate a really clean environment where I can think clearly and plan well. Managing a good living environment is also really important and is helpful and communication in a household too. Communication is definitely something I cherish after living in halls. Furthermore, I feel like halls are a good learning experience for everyone that goes to university. It may be a turbulent ride but it's definitely worth it.