This is part of a series of guidance about community relations provided for students.
Think about the Neighbours
Something worth remembering is however popular an area is with students it will not be exclusively students’ domain. This means that your neighbours may have jobs to get up to, or young children to get to bed. Perhaps they work shifts. Even your neighbours who are students may want an early night from time to time.
This doesn’t mean that you have to curtail all nocturnal activities, it just means you should be considerate in how you go about it.
Party Time
Whilst a house party certainly isn’t a banned activity, you need to think about how you do it, and how often you do it – a noisy late-night gathering every week would be considered inconsiderate.
When you are arranging your occasional party, mention it to your neighbours a week or so in advance, and consider inviting them. Try to agree a time when you will turn the music off, and stick to it.
Good Neighbours are an Asset
Although many permanent residents in ‘studentified’ areas are unhappy about the effect this is having on their community, they are often happy to make friends with individual students. If you have neighbours who are permanent residents, you could build a relationship that’s of benefit to you both, and potentially develop into a lasting friendship.
Take time to meet your neighbours, perhaps by inviting them around for a cup of tea at the start of the year, before your study schedule gets too hectic. When you want to have a party later on, you’ll be in a better position to discuss with them which date would be most suitable. You could also let them know when you’re going away for vacation and when you’re due back, so they’ll know that anyone lurking around while you’re away is not meant to be there.
Summary
- Be considerate of your neighbours, particularly if you might be making noise late at night.
- Try to foster a good neighbourly relationship with permanent residents.