Temporary Downtime

Sorry for the temporary downtime.

I have been moving back to university and had some trouble getting the internet set up in my off campus accommodation (expect some sort of article on this at a later point - got lots to say about this). Now that everything is up and running expect more regular updates.

Thanks for your patience.

How to Use this Site

Now that I have begun to make some progress with this site I thought it would be a good idea to write a brief guide on some of the different features that you can see around the pages. I will first describe the left frame, then the right frame, and then the central area of the page. After that I am going to detail some of the changes to look out for in the future.


Left Frame

1. Google Ads - When people read webpages they tend to ignore the google sponsored links. In my own experience though these can prove to be some of the most useful content that can be found on a website. The reason for this is that google uses an algorithm to determine content similar to that found on a page, and then uses this information to determine other relevant webpages with similar content. If, for example, you browse the "What to Take to University" section and choose the "Computer" page you will find links to companies that sell laptops similar to those I am describing. Clicking on these you may be able to find a good deal or other articles with different information. So, definitely don't ignore the google links - they are there for a reason!

2. Bookmarks and Feeds - These are perhaps some of the most overlooked features of a website. Bookmarks are a way of sharing pages that you like with other people. A lot of these require you to create a profile (username and password) from which you can then make recommendations. If you sign up to these you will also be able to see others recommendations, which makes browsing the web much more fun because you can find interesting pages suggested by others all the time. Subscribing as a reader means that you will receive updates when changes are made to the site, seeing as a lot of information is currently being added this is recommended.

3. Subscribe via E-mail - If you choose to subscribe by e-mail then if I write a new post for the site you will receive an e-mail in your mailbox (max. 1 per day) telling you about the new content.

4. Blog Archive - Here you can see all of my previous articles listed in chronological order and sorter by month and year. This is for when you want to follow the sites progression rather than using the custom built navigation bar.

Right Frame

1. Google Search - If you want to either search my website for specific content (say you want to find an article quickly about laptops) or search the entire web for content then you can use the Google Search tool in the upper right corner. To search my site select "university-source", for the internet choose "web". This will open a new window or tab with the results of the search. This service is provided by Google.

2. Description - A short synopsis of the purpose, goals and content of the site.

3. Navigation - In the navigation toolbar you will find links to the different pages of this website. The pages have been separated by content. Whenever a new article is written a link to it shall be added here. This is the best way to find your way around the site.

4. Amazon Links - At the moment these links are a placeholder for future content (see the "Future Content" section later in this article to find out what might go in it's place). However, like the Google Ads these provide content specific recommendations based on keywords found within my site. Keep an eye out for anything that interests you.

5. Poll - Vote in these polls to decide the way in which the site will evolve. Choose which articles you want to see the most to shape the order that I write in.

Central Page

1. Articles - In the central page you will find a list of the most recent articles that I have written. Scrolling down the page you can read the newest content.

2. Digg It - If you like the article and want to recommend it to others then press the Digg it button!

3. Google Ads - Some of the google sponsored links are at times irrelevant, so to improve the chances of their being more interesting content to link you to there are google ads displayed underneath the articles as well.

4. Comments - Please leave me comments! This is a great way for me to know whether you like the article, what changes you think can be made, and offer my suggestions of things to add. I will always try to respond to comments, and its very simple to leave one. On the homepage simply click the "0 comments" button and it will take you to a page where you can write your comment, and on an articles page press "Post a Comment".

Future Content

1. A section for what to do before you turn up at the university.
2. More articles on what to take and what to do on your first day.
3. An amazon "aStore" where you can browse all of my recommendations on what to take to university at the same time and add them easily to your shopping basket or save for later.
4. And much much more...


While this has been a long description I hope you have taken the time to read it and now have a better understanding of the site! Thank you for showing an interest and keep an eye out for future content updates.

Gaming Laptops for University

This article continues from What Computer to Take to University for Students.


About Gaming Laptops

Gaming laptops are the most powerful laptops available. These are designed for people who want to get the most out of their computer, and these machines rival some of the best desktop computers. By buying one of these you will have the capacity to play the newest, most power hungry games as well as having excellent media capabilities and many other incredible features. These machines turn heads, with their sleek looks and glowing lights you will be the envy of your fellow students. While this is all well and good, there are a couple of points to consider. These computers are not cheap, for the best technical specifications you will be paying over two thousand pounds. Also, they are not as portable as other laptops; with their large size (because of their bigger screens) and increased weight (because of everything that is packed in to them) you will need a strong back to carry these around. However, for people with the money and the need for power these computers are perfect for you, and should easily last you through university and beyond.


Which Gaming Laptop?

Two laptops stand out in this category, the Dell XPS M1710 and Alienware Aurora m9700. While I do own one of these computers, I feel that instead of giving a detailed description of one and making a half-hearted attempt at the other I would instead link you to some comprehensive online articles. You can read reviews of both these machines on laptopmag.com:

Dell XPS M1710 Review
Alienware Aurora m9700 Review


Where Can I Buy These Laptops?

If after reading either of these reviews you decide that one of these laptops is for you, you can follow these links to access the pages where you can begin customising your computers. As both Dell and Alienware are only available online or via the phone, it is easiest to make your purchase over the internet. Follow these links to make a purchase :

Buy Dell XPS M1710
Buy Alienware Aurora m9700

At this stage you will need to begin customising your computer. Both Dell and Alienware have an online support system, where you can speak to experts who will help you shape your order to your own needs. On the Dell link above in the top right hand corner you will see a button you can click called "Live Chat". Select this option, fill in your name and make your question "Customising Dell XPS M1710". Following the Alienware link above, on the right hand side of your screen you will see a toolbar displaying "Your Total". In this toolbar click the "Chat with Sales Support" link and they will help you to build your perfect machine.


I expect to add one or two other gaming laptops that I have heard very good things about to this section at a later date. If you have any recommendations of your own then leave me a comment!


The article which follows this will be on Multimedia Laptops, a cheaper option which still includes a lot of the great features. Check back for updates!

What Computer to Take to University for Students

As a student, your biggest initial expense before even turning up at university will probably be investing in a computer. Seeing as there are so many available, it is worth considering carefully your options before making a decision. You should ask yourself these questions before you start:

• Do I want a desktop or a laptop (notebook)?

• How much money do I have available to spend?

• What do I want it for? Making notes, watching movies or playing games?

• Do I want to get one already made or custom built?

• Should I buy one over the internet or go out to the shops to buy one?

If you make a note of your answer to all of these questions then as we go through and I describe the different options available you can compare them to your own preferences.

The first thing to consider when buying a computer for university is whether you want a laptop or a desktop computer. My personal recommendation would be to go down the laptop route. Although more expensive than the equivalent desktop counterpart, the benefit of owning a laptop is that you can use it anywhere, so if you have a couple of hours free that you want to spend in the library you can take your computer with you. From my own experience, over 95% of students I have met own laptops. Further, nowadays laptops are built to rival many desktop computers, and by buying a docking station and external mouse and keyboard you can effectively turn your laptop into a desktop computer in your room, and still enjoy its portability. In this section I will suggest only laptop computers, but if there is sufficient demand in the future a desktop category may be added.

We shall separate computers in to three categories:

• Gaming

• Multimedia

• Basic

You should read the description under each section before deciding which type is for you.

First Day at University: Moving In

This article continues from First Day at University: When you Arrive.


Exploring your Room

So, you have made it to the university and have picked up your keys. Now the next thing to do is to "move in". Go and explore your room first and try to remember the way there - soon you could be carrying heavy boxes and don't want to get lost en-route! In your room you will probably find some sort of starter pack with your terms of use policy and other information like what to do during a fire alarm. I will come back to this later. For now you should start moving your belongings in (for more information see my What to Take guide).

If you have been driven up then if you haven't been able to get a parking space nearby it might be a good idea to move the car to the entrance, quickly unload everything and wait with it by the door while the car is reparked. Whatever you do, don't leave your belongings alone to move them to your room because thieves are opportunists and know that things get left around during moving in day. If you are travelling alone then obviously this isn't possible, but try to find someone like a student helper to give you a hand.

Moving in your Belongings

Once you have moved all of your stuff to your room then you should do one thing before you start unpacking. In your welcome pack you will probably have been given some sort of inventory. This will tell you everything that is meant to be found in your room (e.g. bed, lamp, desk and so on) and will ask you to make sure that everything is in good working order. So, check around and make sure that you are satisfied that everything works (if a light bulb is blown for example write it down). When that is complete I would advise doing one of two things: go food shopping or start unpacking.

Shopping and Unpacking

If you followed my suggestion in the previous article and arrived early then I would recommend doing the food shopping first. The reason is that if there are only one or two supermarkets close then later in the day they will be absolutely packed with people. I had to queue for about 40 minutes to pay, and also found that some of the things I wanted simply weren't there because others had taken them. If you are with your parents then it is a good idea to buy in bulk and try to get them to pay for it (even if they won't at least you will have the car to transport it). Remember though that you aren't going to make friends with the people you share the kitchen with if you fill the fridge and freezer before they arrive. Try instead to stock up on non-perishable goods you can store in your room.

By the time you get back with the food you might find other people have started to arrive. Put your shopping away and keep an eye out for anyone else moving in to your corridor or flat. If you meet anyone then introduce yourself and, if your parents are around introduce them too. Offer to give them a hand moving their own belongings in (it's a good way to get off on a positive footing with someone). Once this is all said and done I suggest sorting out your room, but first put a couple of beers/bottle of wine on ice for later. I don't think I need to offer unpacking advice except to simply say that while you are at it you may as well put it away tidily and do it all, because if not you will probably find yourself with boxes still left around your room in a few weeks time.

Saying Goodbye to your Parents

Once you have done your unpacking it's time to say goodbye to your parents. I have been asked by a lot of people I know who are beginning university next year at what time their parents should leave, and have answered the same way each time: as soon as possible. You are going to have to do it sooner or later. Don't be afraid to cry, your mum probably will! You are in a new place and know nobody so it can be a terrifying prospect. Believe me when I say though that within a few hours you will probably have left all these thoughts behind you and will be having a great time.


Now that this is all sorted out, it's time to meet your flatmates. Look out for this article soon!

Back to Your First Day at University

Detailed Explanation of Documentation

This article continues from What to Take to University: Documentation.

General

Accommodation Documentation

Take along your contract and confirmation of your accommodation agreement so you can display it if required.

Driving License

If you are taking a car with you then you will need your driving license. Even if you aren't it is still good for I.D.

Insurance Information

A lot of student rooms have insurance of around 3000 pounds to cover any theft or damage to your items. If you need to extend your insurance to include something like an expensive laptop, or if you think the items in your room are worth more than 3000 pounds, then you should take out extended insurance. You should find out whether your parent’s home insurance covers your university room first. Take any details of this along with you in case you need to make a claim.

National Insurance Card/Number

If you want to work then you will need your national insurance number.

Passport

If you decide to go travelling with your new friends during the year, or if you do not have a driving license for ID, then you will need to have your passport with you.

Passport Photos

My university required me to hand over a couple of passport sized photos for things like Student Cards and for the accommodation department. Take a couple along (5 or so) in case you need some at the start of term.

Student Finance Documentation

If you are receiving a student loan then your university will require you to provide your "Financial Notification" form from your LEA.

TV License

To use a television at university you will have to have a TV license, otherwise you can face some pretty hefty fines.

University Unconditional Offer

When you have received your grades the university should send you an unconditional offer letter. Make sure to take this along.

Banking

Bank/Building Society Details

If you ever need to pay for anything online/by direct debit then you will probably be asked for your bank/building society details. These sorts of things are sort code, account number etc. If you need any more information on this leave a comment.

Cheque Book

It's sometimes easier to pay for things by cheque than by cash (for example when you can't get to a bank). In these circumstances you will need your cheque book.

Debit Card

Don't need to say much about this. If you want to get money out from a cash machine or pay for your groceries without cash then you will need your debit card.

Paying-In Book

For if you are in the fortunate position of having received cash.


Look out for future articles about which bank to choose for students.