When Studying Abroad in Sheffield and Renting an Apartment Outdoors
Personal safety is a key concern for students considering studying abroad. Thankfully, most dangers can be prevented by using common sense and following simple steps. Taking self-defense classes can also help. From choking people out to flipping them over, learning some basic moves will make you feel more confident in general and will help you get away from a dangerous situation faster.
Studying abroad is an incredible experience and chances are nothing bad will happen, but it is always best to be prepared for the worst. A little bit of research and a few small steps like locking your door can prevent problems before they start.
If you live in a building Sheffield student accommodation with windows that people can see into, keep your valuables out of sight and locked up. If you have a laptop, consider keeping it in the bedroom rather than on your desk where it can be easily stolen.
How to Protect Yourself When Studying Abroad in Sheffield and Renting an Apartment Outdoors
Never leave your Sheffield student accommodation unlocked. You wouldn’t leave your front door open at home, so why do it when you are living in another country? Always use a secure lock and make sure you lock your room whenever you leave, even for just two seconds.
Pickpocketing is a problem in many cities, especially when tourists and students mill around tourist attractions and shopping districts. Be extra careful in crowds, and don’t flash a lot of cash in public or at markets. It is better to carry a smaller wallet with only essentials on you, and keep a pocket or pouch for your phone and other valuables.
Accommodation providers can provide diversity training programs for staff members to promote cultural sensitivity and inclusivity within the accommodation community. These training programs can focus on enhancing awareness of different cultures, addressing unconscious biases, and developing intercultural communication skills. By equipping staff with the necessary knowledge and tools, accommodation providers foster an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel respected and valued.
You should also know your area and be aware of any dangers nearby, such as a dark alley that could be used by thieves to corner you, or an area where hooligans might hang out. Be cautious and stay away from those areas if possible, and stick to the main roads and well-lit areas. Having a map of the city is helpful and will keep you on track as you explore. It is also a good idea to learn the emergency number in your host country and have it memorized, or at least have someone write it on a piece of paper that you can hand to a cab driver.
It’s also a good idea to buy a personalised travel wallet for your money and important documents, and have it with you at all times. It will be less tempting to leave it in a cafe, and it will give you peace of mind if you do have to go out on your own for a few hours.
Finally, make sure you have adequate personal possessions insurance in case anything gets stolen or lost. This can save you a lot of money if you have to replace a laptop or a nice pair of shoes, for example. In the event that something does happen, make sure you report it immediately to the authorities. We hope you’ll find these tips useful, and we want to wish all of our future Sheffield Hallam students the best of luck in their new homes!