Hi! My name is Clara, and I want to share my experience living in student accommodation on the QMU (Queen Margaret University) campus during my first year. If you're researching university housing options or wondering what it's like to live on campus at QMU, I hope this post helps you decide if it's the right place for you and gives you a realistic glimpse of what to expect.
First, let’s talk about one of the biggest advantages of QMU student accommodation: the proximity to the University itself. Being so close to my classes, the LRC (library), other study spaces, rehearsal rooms, labs, and the gym has been a huge relief.
This convenience has helped me more than I ever expected. I have plenty of time to get ready before class, I can use the study spaces whenever I want (thanks to the 24/7 Learning Resource Centre), I can take a break or prepare a meal between lectures, and I can access the studios to rehearse at any time. It offers a level of flexibility and access that can really enhance your experience, especially valuable while you’re still adjusting to university life.
Another wonderful aspect of living here is the community of other students. I genuinely believe that living on campus enhances the university experience, especially for first-year students. If you're going to be a fresher at QMU, living on campus will help you adjust to the new environment, resources, and people. You might make lifelong friends, and it’s easy to have fun with others living nearby—whether you're having dinner and listening to music in the shared kitchen, hanging out at Maggie's (our campus bar/cafe), having a picnic on the beautiful green lawns, or enjoying the Reslife events together.
The ResLife team plays a crucial role in making your time here easier and more enjoyable. They are always available to help with any issues, whether you need assistance with flatmates, have payment questions, or if something breaks (like your kettle). In addition to solving problems, they organise weekly events often themed around holidays, like the Easter Egg Hunt, along with random delightful activities, such as distributing free care packages for a little at-home spa experience. I cannot emphasise enough how grateful I am for Reslife; they made me feel welcomed, comforted, and safe.
I also love the campus location! Musselburgh offers the best of both worlds: you’re just a 7-minute train ride from Edinburgh city centre while enjoying this town's calm, serene atmosphere. Plus, you are only a 20-minute walk from the beach, which is wonderful when you want to unwind or have a fun beach day with friends.
If you’re concerned about being far from Edinburgh or think you won’t have easy access, don’t worry! The transportation options are incredibly convenient. The train station is practically on campus—just a 3-minute walk from the student village. The bus station is even closer, literally on campus, with buses running non-stop every 10 minutes or less, taking you wherever you need to go! You can also relax knowing that buses run 24/7, so returning to your flat after a night out won’t be an issue. Trust me, taking the 3 AM bus back with your friends from the city centre will be a memorable experience!
I hope this gives you a clearer idea of living on campus! I've had an amazing experience here so far, and I hope that if you decide to live on the QMU campus, you will find a home just like I did.
