Student life as an iQ resident

When I was hunting for a student accommodation for my second year of university, one thing mattered more than anything else: finding a place where I felt supported. Fortunately, I came across iQ, and since then there was no turning back. 

First impressions matter

In my first year at university, I wasn't living with iQ. My experience wasn't great. Maintenance issues in my room often took far too long to resolve, and the site team was dismissive and unwelcoming. It wasn't exactly the student experience I had imagined.

I knew I needed a better environment to live in, halfway through that year, I started researching accommodations for the following academic year. After countless hours of browsing websites and making phone calls, I arranged a viewing at one of the iQ sites.

The difference was immediate.

The team member who spoke to me on the phone was warm, enthusiastic, and genuinely helpful. After my previous experience, that simple interaction gave me confidence that iQ would be different.

A few days later, I attended my viewing and was even more impressed.

Instead of receiving the usual sales pitch about room sizes and contracts, the conversation focused on me. We talked about my interests, what I was studying, and what I was looking for in student accommodation. The atmosphere felt welcoming, relaxed, and authentic.

I loved the social spaces, and what stood out most was the fact that there was no pressure to sign a contract immediately. I'm sure many of you know the feeling of being rushed into deciding, so it was refreshing to be given the time and space to think.

That first interaction became the beginning of many positive experiences with iQ such as many cook offs with friends and pj parties. Since moving into iQ, I had my Best Year Yet! 

3 things I love about my iQ room

There are lots of things I appreciate about my room, but a few favourites stand out.

1. The Overhead Lamp

This might sound like a small thing, but it's genuinely one of my favourite features.

As a self-confessed bookworm (emphasis on self-declared - my shelf might say otherwise). I spend a lot of time reading, studying, and working on coursework. During those late-night study sessions when deadlines are creeping up on you, the overhead lamp is a lifesaver. It provides the perfect amount of light without making the room feel too bright.

Honestly, I never thought I'd be this excited about a lamp, but here we are.

2. Fast Maintenance

One thing I really appreciate is how quickly maintenance requests are handled.

At my previous accommodation, repairs could take days, sometimes even weeks. Not only was that frustrating, but it often affected my day-to-day comfort.

At iQ, any maintenance issue I've reported has usually been resolved within a couple of days. Knowing that help is available when you need it brings a huge amount of peace of mind.

3. The Desk and Pin Board

Being a student, you'll understand how important a good study space is.

iQ rooms have some of the most spacious desks I've seen in student accommodation. There's plenty of room for books, notebooks, stationery, and of course, a laptop.

I also love the pin board. Mine is currently a chaotic mix of lecture notes, motivational quotes, photographs, and a butterfly drawing that I'm very proud of. Adding your own touches makes the room feel more personal and transforms it into a space that truly feels like home.

3 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier

1. The iQ App does so much

The iQ app quickly became one of my most-used student tools.

Through the app, you can:

• Pay rent
• Report maintenance issues
• Track parcel deliveries
• Join clubs and communities
• Access laundry information
• Chat with the team
• Rebook your room
• Arrange summer stays
• Borrow equipment
• Book social spaces

My advice? Take some time to explore it. There are plenty of useful features that can make university life easier.

2. Your voice matters

As students, we're often so busy that it's tempting to ignore problems rather than deal with them.

But one thing I've learned is that the site teams are there to help.

Whether it's a maintenance concern, a rent query, a problem in your flat, or even if you're simply feeling a little lonely, don't be afraid to reach out. The team genuinely wants to make your experience the best it can be.

3. The iQ Reading Room has some great tips 

I know you're currently reading a blog post, so you're probably already aware that the blog exists.

But I wish I'd discovered it sooner.

There are so many useful articles covering everything from moving in and student visas to making friends at university and exploring your city. It's full of advice and inspiration that's specifically relevant to student life.

It's the perfect thing to read during your commute to lectures.

Why I rebooked with iQ

A home away from home 

The biggest reason I rebooked was simple: iQ feels like home.

I can walk to university every day, I enjoy my room, my parcels arrive safely, and I know there is always support available if I need it. I've also enjoyed becoming part of communities like the iQ BookClub, which has helped me connect with other students who share similar interests.

When you find somewhere that feels comfortable, welcoming, and convenient, it's hard to leave. Whether you realise it or not, iQ genuinely cares about its students.

Living with my friend

Many students choose to live in a house with friends after first year, but that's not the only option.

My friend and I booked a flat together at iQ, which gave us the best of both worlds. We get to live together while still enjoying the security, amenities, and support that come with purpose-built student accommodation.

We can spend time in the social spaces, organise movie nights and pyjama parties, and make memories together throughout the year.

Another year of bests 

As I prepare for another year with iQ, I'm genuinely excited about what's to come.

From the welcoming site teams and convenient location to the friendships, events, and sense of community, iQ has given me a student experience that's been both comfortable and memorable.

For me, rebooking wasn't a difficult decision at all.

It was choosing the place that already feels like home.