Philippa Dobree-Carey, The Mamaholic
Author bio
Philippa Dobree-Carey Philippa Dobree‑Carey is a writer, award‑winning author, and safeguarding specialist who shares parenting tips, midlife meltdowns, and the mental load with sharp humour and practical clarity. She is the creator of The Mamaholic Monthly on Substack and the author of two guides: From High School to Uni and The Essential Job Search Guide for Students. Her work supports families through major life transitions with honesty, structure, and wit. Find her on Instagram @themamaholic.
A typical student bedroom with desk chair and bed
By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni
Moving into University Halls of Residence is a huge adventure for Freshers - perhaps their first taste of independence! First time managing a budget, first time cooking for themselves, first time organizing their lives with no assistance from parents. In addition, their new life may be in another country, with a different culture and customs, a new space with complete strangers, and it will take some time to adjust to the new environment.
To make this process less daunting, and help make the experience moving into Halls enjoyable, follow these tips below:
DO pack your suitcases efficiently. Before you leave home, organise your belongings into categories (like clothes, desk stuff, bathroom toiletries, shoes, etc.). This will make it so much easier to unpack efficiently and organise your room quickly.
DON’T lock yourself in your room whilst unpacking. Wedge your bedroom door open to say hi to other residents and get a chance to talk with your new flat mates immediately. The sooner you start chatting, the sooner you will start to make friends.
DO unpack your room straightaway as soon as you have picked up your key or badge from the University admin office. You will feel more settled and comfortable once you have your own space sorted.
DON’T drag out the goodbyes with your parents if they have dropped you off. It's normal to feel emotional when they leave, but don't let that stop you from enjoying your new independence!
DO be friendly and supportive getting to know your flat mates who may be shy. Invite them to join you for an exploratory walk around the university campus or go have lunch or dinner together in town.
DON’T isolate in your room. Whilst it is tempting to just curl up by yourself and watch Netflix, go out and get to know your flat mates. This is an exciting time - embrace the challenge!
By Philippa Dobree-Carey, From High School to Uni
It’s crunch time. The clock is ticking in these last few weeks of sunshine and summer before your high school graduate heads off to college or university.
So what can you do in the meantime to prepare for departure?
One of my annual summer activities is to go through my children’s cupboards and declutter clothes, equipment, toys or schoolbooks and papers that are no longer needed. A quick trip to the recycling centre and you’ve gained some much-needed cupboard space, while feeling good about ticking this task off your list.
You can also give clothes to your neighbors, friends, or your next child, and recycle files and folders with new labels for use at home, or for university, if needed. Scan any documents or artwork you wish to retain as keepsakes, and carefully file them with a memorable name.
