Leeds Advice F.A.Q.
Last update: August 2004
Guide to Phone and Internet Connection
Guide to Internet Cafes and Libraries
Where do I go if I need to see a doctor?The Leeds Student Medical Practice is located across from Parkinson building. Since you will be studying for less than six months you will be charged a fee to see a doctor, but if you need a prescription it will not be expensive. All students should check with their insurance provider before they travel abroad to make sure they have coverage in foreign countries.
What information do I need to receive my flat key?You will need to show the staff at Montague Burton flats your accommodation assignment letter. It is also necessary to pay the security deposit within the first week or even before you arrive. Most students pay the deposit with a credit card. I suggest paying the deposit before you leave. In 2003 the security deposit was £100. The accommodation letter will have a telephone number that you may call to pay your security deposit by credit card.
Is there a fitness center on campus?Leeds University has a gym and many club sports available to all students. At Leeds, students are encouraged to join sports. The cost is slightly higher, but you will make more friends and have the opportunity to travel with the team.
Do I need to get a bank account when I get to Leeds?You will not need to open a bank account in Leeds, but you will have the opportunity if you would like. The ATM machines throughout Europe and England do take American bank cards. Credit cards are also accepted mostly everywhere.
Can I change the date of my return flight to the US?If you buy student airline tickets you will be able to change the date you return. Student tickets are valid for a year. Make sure your travel agent explains any fees associated with changing your tickets. Sta Travel has an office in the HUB and there is also an Sta Travel in the Leeds Student Union. So they will be the easiest travel agent to use.
What should I do with my luggage while I am traveling?Some of the hotels in London will store luggage for you while you are traveling. They may require that you spend a night at the hotel at the beginning and end of your travel. You may want to do this anyway depending on when your flight arrives in England and when you want to begin your travel. The other option is finding a locker at the train station. I think the hotels are more reliable though. When I was traveling I left two bags at the Imperial Hotel in Russell Square and they were still there safe and sound when I returned. Ask a travel agent for more suggestions.
What should I pack?Pack as little as possible! You will be able to buy a lot of the things you need in Leeds, so only bring the things you absolutely need. Pack about 2-3 weeks of clothing and you will be in good shape. Try to layer your clothing because the weather can be warm or cold on the same day, and you should also bring a good rain jacket. Less luggage will make traveling easier, and then you might have room to bring souvenirs home.
Will I need to buy bedding and towels?All students have the option of buying bedding from the university. The package includes a flat sheet, pillow, pillow case, duvet, and duvet cover. You can also buy sheet sets and duvet covers at Woolrich in town or Argos. Argos is a catalogue store that offers a lot of houseware items you may need at the beginning of the semester.
Can I receive packages at my flat?You will be able to receive large packages and other mail at your flat. You need to pick up all your mail at the front desk with your student id. To mail letters you need to go to the post office. The cost to ship everything is based on weight. Be sure to write that the package is going to the U.S. on the letter or package, and also inform the teller.
How much will all this fun cost?Here's the breakdown: Airfare between $350 and $450 is typical. You pay tuition directly to Penn State so it is like any normal semester. You still get all the financial aid that you would normally receive. Lodging: In 2003 the students paid £967. This translate to about $1600. Groceries can run from $15-30 a week depending on where you shop and what you buy. Entertainment is the main expense. You will want to go out, so budget yourself. The cost to get in a club is about $10 and then the cost of drinks ranges from place to place. Sports: The gym pass is about $70 and the cost of joining a sports team is around $40.
You will need more money while studying in Leeds that you would need at Penn State. Try to save as much as possible during the summer so you can enjoy yourself. In general, when I went to Leeds, no matter how much money people went over with they all came back broke. As long as you set a realistic budget before you go, you will be fine.
Where will I have Thanksgiving dinner?When I was in Leeds one of the pubs, Bricklayers, cooked us dinner for about £15 each. Your other option is cooking Thanksgiving dinner for yourself. The stuffing in England is no stove top, so you may want someone from home to mail you some before Thanksgiving.