Starting University in Aberdeen: A Parent's Guide

Waving your child off to university is one of those bittersweet milestones. While it’s exciting to see them grow into an adult, it’s also emotional to see them fly the nest. Just like their first steps, the world is opening up to them.

Although this is a time full of excitement and pride, it can also be worrying and stressful. How will your child settle into university life? Will they eat a single vegetable? How can you best support them in this new chapter of their life?

Fear not — this guide will help ease these parental worries. Keep reading to understand everything you need to know about university in the wonderful Granite City.

Safety

When a new student moves away from home, it’s natural to worry about their safety. You can’t lie awake at night and wait to hear the front door unlock – you have to trust they’ll be safe on their own.

Fortunately, Aberdeen is regarded as one of the safest cities in the UK for students. With a low crime rate and a Purple Flag award, it’s a reassuring place for parents. Both the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University have dedicated campus security teams, 24/7 support services, and student wellbeing programmes. Plus, there’s reliable public transport that makes it easy to get around the city safely.

If you’re still worried, you can always download safety apps. These apps can show you in real-time where your child is, so even if they’re walking home alone, you’re still with them.

Accommodation

New students usually stay in university halls during their first year of university. Aberdeen has a wide range of options, from en-suite rooms to shared flats.

However, your child doesn’t need to stay in university housing. You can take this as an opportunity to invest in some property in the area. With students typically spending up to four years at a university, you could get yourself on the property ladder while providing a private place for your child to live.

There are plenty of options in Aberdeen. From flats to bungalows, there’s something for every budget. Your child doesn’t even need to stay in the city centre – with the city’s handy transport system, you can easily travel from the suburbs to university! Have a look at local property listings in Aberdeen to understand what your options are.

Packing

You’ll want your child to be prepared for university life, but there’s such a thing as overpacking. They don’t need the full contents of your house. Space will be pretty limited in university accommodation or shared living quarters, so it’s important to only take the essentials. Here are some for consideration:

• Bedding (make sure to double-check the mattress size!)
• Kitchen basics (remember: basics)
• Electronics such as laptops and tablets (don’t forget their chargers!)
• Any important documents, such as ID or information packs

And, of course, snacks. Lots, and lots, of snacks.

Budgeting

Aside from the subject your child will study, this will be one of the most valuable things they learn during their time as a student. However, it’s best not to assume they know it all before they leave. Make sure to sit down and work together to create a budget.

Help them to understand the basic incoming and outgoing expenses. Give them a clear understanding of how much extra money they have each month after mandatory bills. Some people are gifted with budgeting – others are not. It’s your job to ensure your child has the tools necessary to survive on their own.

Student discounts are a great way to help your child save money. Apps like UNIDAYS are great for getting money off of all sorts of purchases. This way, your child can still enjoy splurging, but with some handy money off.

Communication

It’s completely natural to want to check in on your child, but not every day. You want to show that you trust your child in this new life stage.

The best way to stay in touch without becoming overbearing is to establish a regular time for a catch-up. This can be weekly, or possibly multiple times if that suits their schedule. Don’t pry when chatting, and let your child come to you with any issues.

Sending care packages is a lovely way to stay connected without overstepping. It’s a subtle reminder that you’re there without needing to say it. Just make sure not to send anything embarrassing – or you might not get a call at all!

Here’s to the new chapter!

Sending your child to university is a big deal — for both of you. But, remember that Aberdeen is a welcoming city with a large student community. Your child will grow in confidence, make lifelong friends, and (hopefully) learn a bit too.

Besides, distance makes the heart grow fonder, so they’ll learn to appreciate your washing, taxi and cooking services all the more when you’re around.