Life at Leonard Horner (so far!)

One of the biggest things that you’ll worry about before university is accommodation. I know I did.


Heriot-Watt guarantees accommodation to all first-year students who require it. There’s plenty of options to choose from, but if you’re looking for good accommodation on a budget, then you’ll most likely do as I did, and opt for Leonard Horner halls.

It’s been 6 weeks since I move into halls, and I’ve loved every minute of it! From pizza and movie nights with my flatmates to impromptu hikes up Arthur’s Seat at 1:30am, I’ve had an amazing time since arriving, and I’m lucky to have great people in my accommodation.

The first thing to know about Leonard Horner is that it’s the most affordable accommodation on campus!

Helpful hint: If like me, you’re paying the accommodation yourself, the maintenance loan you can take from SAAS is enough to cover the accommodation every year! 

Secondly, it’s the ideal place to be in terms of location.

Most accommodation blocks are 10-15 minutes’ walk away from the SU, main lecture halls, and Oriam, but Leonard Horner is opposite the Student Union, and a 2 minute walk away. I love being close to the action.

Heriot-Watt is fairly close to civilization (Tesco’s) and even has a student shop that isn’t extortionate and remains well stocked at all times! If you forget minor things such as a cheese grater or a doorstop for your room, then you can easily purchase one.

So, you’re all moved in and you’ve survived Fresher’s Week! But what next?

Getting a part-time job can be a great way to get to know people outside the university bubble. I started a job as a waiter in Edinburgh not long ago and have since got to know plenty of other students that I work with from the University of Edinburgh and Napier University. It’s great fun, and a good way to earn some much-needed cash.

Chances are, you might feel down or overloaded with academics, feelings of missing your family, or even overworked if you signed up to every club and society you saw during the Fresher’s Fair - speaking from personal experience here...

So, remember to take some time to go for a walk, relax a little, and take in everything that’s happening.

And if you need someone talk to, don’t be afraid to seek out the university counselling services. They’re there to help you!