Produced by Guest blogger
I am Bruna Tolomeli from Brazil studying a master’s in Post Production Editing at BU since September 2017. Choosing where to live can be tricky, especially if you don’t know the city and need to pick an accommodation before even getting to your destination. Reading blogs and watching vlogs about accommodation options helped me understand the characteristics of each one of them, making it easier to decide.
Location is everything!
I decided to live in Okeford House, in Winton, primarily because of the location. Living near the university makes life easier and Okeford is just a fifteen-minute walk to Talbot campus. I have classes most days of the week and I spend almost all my time seated in front of my laptop working on projects and studying. Having to walk every day to university makes me feel more active and alive. On top of that, there are three supermarkets right next to Okeford, which is extremely practical. I can buy groceries more than once a week without feeling stressed about it.
Postgrad area – no trespassing
Okeford is an accommodation for postgraduates only. Consequently, there are quite a few people from my course who also live here. On my first day of class, all Okeford people decided to walk to campus together to get to know each other. Luckily enough, most of the people I met that day became close friends.
In addition to that, postgraduates usually have a heavier load of studies in a shorter timeframe than undergraduates. Living with people who are in the same situation helps us cope with the stress and anxiety. Here, people are more understanding and help each other out whenever they can.
Small and cosy
Okeford is one of the oldest BU halls and is also quite small in size. I consider it to be extremely positive. Whenever I am walking through the halls, there are always friends around greeting me, which makes me feel like there’s a little piece of home with me. I believe we have created a strong friendly and supportive group in Okeford – where we pay attention to each other’s needs and wellbeing. I remember going through a stressful period where I couldn’t find time to cook – my Okeford friends took care of me by giving me food and comfort.
I believe each one of us has our own unique characteristics and some people might relate to my experiences and some might not. Finding an accommodation that makes you feel at home can be hard work. I am extremely happy I found mine and I hope you can all find what suits you the best.
There is no place like Okeford.
By Bruna Tolomeli, Brazil, MA Post Production Editing, 2017/18