Don't Make These Common Mistakes in Halls

Small Changes, Better Life in Halls

It’s hard to believe, but it’s almost been a year since I arrived at LSE to start my postgraduate degree and moved into one of the university’s halls of residence.

Living in halls has been one of the best parts of my experience. I’ve met incredible people, learned a lot about living with others, and collected a few funny stories along the way. Of course, I’ve also made a couple of mistakes, and watched plenty of other people make them too.

So, if you’re moving into halls soon, here are a few things I wish I’d known from day one.

1. Don't Skip Check-in Day

I know moving to a new country isn't always straightforward, and sometimes arriving on the official check-in date just isn't possible. But if you have the choice, I'd definitely recommend arriving on that day.

Why? First, storage space in shared kitchens is basically first come, first served. If you arrive early, you get first pick of the best cupboard and fridge space. Arrive late, and you might discover someone has "accidentally" expanded into your territory. (Please don't be that person!)

Second, check-in day is one of the easiest times to make friends. Everyone is new, everyone is slightly nervous, and nobody knows anyone yet. Those first conversations while unpacking or figuring out how the washing machines work can easily turn into friendships that last the whole year.

2. Don't Be a Stranger to Your Flatmates

When I first moved in, my flatmates and I would see each other in the kitchen, exchange a polite "Hi!", and then immediately disappear back into our rooms.

After a month or two, I decided to do something about it. I sent a message in our WhatsApp group asking if anyone wanted to have a games night.

A few people ignored the message (which happens), but most said yes. That one evening completely changed the atmosphere in our flat. Suddenly, the kitchen became a place for long conversations instead of awkward silences.

By the end of the year, my flatmates weren't just people I lived with, they'd become genuine friends. At this point, I'm fully expecting an invitation to at least one of their weddings.

Sometimes all it takes is one person sending that first message.

3. Be Considerate in Shared Spaces

Everyone comes from different countries, cultures and backgrounds, but one thing is universal: nobody enjoys cleaning up someone else's mess.

No one expects the kitchen to look like a showroom 24/7. But wiping down the hob after cooking, cleaning the microwave if something explodes (it happens!), and washing your dishes promptly makes a huge difference.

One mistake I noticed a lot during the first few weeks was people leaving uncovered food in the fridge. Before long, the entire fridge smelled like last night's dinner, and not in a good way.

One of my favourite discoveries this year was a pack of cleaning wipes from M&S. I'd finish cooking, grab a wipe, clean the surfaces in 30 seconds and be done. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

Trust me, your future self and your flatmates will thank you.

4. If Something Bothers You, Speak Up

I'll admit it: I'm quite shy.

At the beginning of the year, if something annoyed me, I'd usually stay quiet. But I quickly realised that most people aren't trying to be inconsiderate, they simply don't know they're doing something that bothers someone else.

For many students, this is their first time living away from home or sharing a flat. A friendly message or conversation is often all it takes to solve the problem.

Remember, you're living together for almost a year. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own home.

5. Actually Read the Halls Emails

I know. Your inbox is overflowing.

Between university emails, society newsletters and random promotions, it's tempting to ignore everything.

But halls emails are genuinely worth reading.

Not every email will be relevant, but a quick skim usually tells you whether it's important. They often include useful updates, maintenance information, competitions, giveaways and details about upcoming events.

Future you will be grateful for spending those extra two minutes reading them.

6. Go to Halls Events

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, go to the halls events.

There are loads throughout the year, and they're one of the easiest ways to meet people outside your flat. You might discover a new hobby, learn about different cultures, or simply have a fun evening without spending much money.

And yes... let's talk about the free food.

The number of times I was too lazy to cook and then got a notification saying there was free pizza, snacks or dessert at a halls event was honestly ridiculous.

One piece of advice, though: if there's free food, arrive early.

Seriously.

It disappears at an Olympic speed.

Final Thoughts

Living in halls is a unique experience. It won't always be perfect, there might be noisy neighbours or occasional kitchen disasters. But it can also be one of the most rewarding parts of university life.

My biggest piece of advice is simple: make the most of it. Say yes to opportunities, introduce yourself to people, be considerate of those around you, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. A year goes by much faster than you think, and before you know it, you'll be packing your bags with not only great memories, but also friendships that could last a lifetime.