Compared to various University accommodation I have found myself in over the last 5 years, this place looks immense. I remember halls of residence being tiny rooms like sardine cans, a communal living room full dirty washing up and pissed people and loads of take away flyers as decorations. I didn't live in halls myself, but despite all of the above, I kind of regret it for the social aspect of sharing your building with about 100 other people in the same boat as you. Never the less it wasn't the end of the world and I did avoid the weekly fire alarm pranks and having to risk death leaning out of the window to smoke.
I.Q looks buff. Maybe it is because it is brand spanking new, but it really looks like a nice place to start your University years. The options are a bit more expensive than the usual student halls but they are all ensuite. You have the choice between a bedroom in a shared flat (ensuite) or a studio flat all to yourself. The studio flats come in bronze, silver or gold (not the actual colour but the level of wow factor) and they all look and sound absolutely plush, if not slightly over indulgent. The gold studio flat sounds amazing especially, it is a 30 square ft self contained ensuite studio with a double bed, study area, and kitchen with breakfast bar. Oo-lah-lah.
In my first year at University I paid £58 per week for a reasonable sized room in an 8 bed house. It wasn't very homely and did feel like a dorm but it was fine. I guess it depends on whether you want to a) live in halls b) live with other people and c) what your budget is. This place would definitely be comfortable, less likely to fall apart or become an ice box in the winter, and you don't have to worry so much about landlords getting things done in time. But, it is a lot of money compared to other options, and halls just isn't some peoples 'cup of tea'. Plus learning how to deal with landlords is a skill you may need later in life so getting the practice in early won't do any harm.
Have a good think about it, visit some places and write down pro's and con's before you make any rash decisions. read more