r/universityofyork

Hey Peeps!!!!! I just got my UK student visa approved this month and will be moving from INDIA to join the University of York this SEPT🫡. I’m incredibly excited but standard pre-departure anxiety is starting to kick in.
Since I want to make sure I have my local logistics sorted, I would love to get some advice from you guys!
1. Arrival Logistics~
Travel from Airport: any stress-free way to get to York with 2 large suitcases and 2 cabin luggage?Is it better to pre-book a train? I will be booking university run airport shuttle service but just want to know as a backup if I miss my service😅
Bank Setup: Which digital banks (like Monzo/Revolut) or traditional high-street banks are easiest for international students to open right away? Also I just want to add that I do have HSBC UK bank account but apart from this for daily expenses and all I want your suggestions!🤝
Mobile Network: Which mobile provider has the best data coverage and signal on the York campus or most of the ppl uses as I have planned to make my current sim physically active and the uk sim an E sim with a data plan that I will recharge beforehand of flight ✈️
2. Local Food & Budgeting
Groceries: Where do students usually do their weekly food shop to stay on a budget? Are there good international or world food grocery stores nearby at York? Is there any budget-friendly cafe or quiet spot in the city center to hang out or relax?
3. Campus Life & Making Friends
Socializing: What are the best student societies, college events, or campus spots for meeting people during the first few weeks?
Life in York: For those who moved here from abroad, what was your favorite part about adapting to life in York?
Any tips, local hacks, or "wish I knew before moving" advice would be massively appreciated. Thank you so much, and I can't wait to arrive!