Author: CampusKey

Starting university is an exciting new chapter in one’s life, but it can also be overwhelming. First-year students’ mental health challenges have become a major concern for institutions worldwide. Recently, a study was conducted covering two universities in North West England, which highlighted three crucial themes: firstly, the transitional nature of student life; secondly, the pivotal role of student accommodation in fostering friendships and communities; and thirdly, the significance of accommodation-based staff (Worsley, Harrison, and Corcoran, 2021).

These findings emphasize the importance of addressing student loneliness, a challenge that CampusKey aims to tackle head-on.

‍Creating Spaces as Segways to Community ‍

As a transitional period in life, CampusKey understands the importance of creating spaces that ease students into university life. Our buildings and spaces are designed to serve as sanctuaries, balancing independence with a sense of community.

Managing Director Leon Howell said, “When CampusKey develops a new building or reimagines an old one, we look at creative ways to mix communities and uses. Our diversity and energy make our locations more attractive, resilient, and sustainable. This understanding is at the heart of what we do; it is our mission.”

The architecture is deliberately crafted to encourage spontaneous interactions, turning every corner into an opportunity to make new friends.

‍Accommodations as Vessels for Friendships and Communities‍

CampusKey understands that a student’s living space is more than a room. It’s a gateway to friendships and a sense of belonging. With our vibrant social spaces and clubhouses, we aim to facilitate organic connections between students. Our weekly events fill our spaces with laughter, learning, and shared experiences, which help to transform strangers into friends and acquaintances into companions.

The Importance of Accommodation-based Teams‍

CampusKey prioritizes the well-being and safety of its students. As part of CampusKey’s offering, students have access to 24/7 on-site teams should they need assistance, as well as a Call-us-anytime number for any emergency. Monthly mentorship sessions, community outreach projects, and sustainability drives are part of CampusKey’s philosophy of creating an environment where students can thrive, stay informed, and participate in their community by fostering strong connections.

Howell added, “CampusKey is the most innovative and exciting experience students can imagine. In addition to the energetic and inspiring vibe, which encourages connectivity among students, guests, and locals. Our team is focused on service excellence and understanding the needs of all our guests.”By designing our spaces to foster connections, using accommodations as vessels for friendships, and nurturing the importance of supportive teams, we create environments where loneliness struggles to find a foothold. CampusKey is not just about rooms; it’s about cultivating connections, supporting dreams, and ensuring every student lives their best life.

Loneliness fades away in the heart of CampusKey, and vibrant communities thrive. Together, we embark on a shared journey, making university life not just a phase but a cherished memory of belonging, connection, and growth.

‍Sources: Worsley, J.D., Harrison, P. and Corcoran, R. (2021). The role of accommodation environments in student mental health and wellbeing. BMC Public Health, [online] 21(1). doi:
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-021-10602-5.

Go Change the World: Unlocking the Potential of CampusKey Students‍

We all remember the jitters you felt before going for your first job interview or the disappointment after applying for countless positions and waiting by the phone for the call that never comes. At CampusKey we’ve decided to take matters into our own hands and ensure that the CK students change the game and have all the tools necessary to rock the “real world”

CampusKey has introduced an empowering initiative: the “Go Change the World” campaign. It’s not just a program; it’s a transformative experience designed exclusively for our final-year students gearing up for the working world. 

‍The Inside Scoop: What is “Go Change the World”?‍

At its core, “Go Change the World” is CampusKey’s way of preparing our students for the adventures of adulthood and the professional world. This campaign is more than a series of workshops; it’s a holistic approach to equip our students with the essential life skills and knowledge necessary for their future endeavors.

‍Why “Go Change the World”?‍

The inspiration behind this campaign came from within our walls – third-year students who expressed their concerns about the transition from university life to the working world. We listened and crafted a program that addresses their needs, aspirations, and dreams.

What’s on the Agenda?‍

We have initiated a diverse range of workshops and sessions, across all 6 of our locations to ensure our students are ready to leave their mark after graduation. These workshops include:

1. Crafting a Professional Identity: We are hosting CV workshops that will transform a resume, making it a magnet for job opportunities. Here the CK students will learn the art of presenting themselves professionally and impress potential employers from the get-go.

2. Finding a Balance: Discover the secrets of work-life balance in our dedicated workshops. We believe that a balanced life leads to happier, more productive individuals. We dedicate sessions to teach our students how to manage their time effectively and maintain their well-being.

3. Igniting Entrepreneurial Sparks: If any of our students have ever dreamt of starting their own business, our entrepreneurship sessions are tailored just for that. Guiding them to unleash their creativity, explore innovative ideas, and learn the ropes of entrepreneurship from experts in the field.

4.Boosting their Online Presence: In today’s digital age, your online professional presence matters. Our LinkedIn profile optimization workshops will guide our students in creating a compelling online persona, connecting them with industry professionals and potential employers.

5. Personal Growth and Beyond: Beyond career-focused skills, our program emphasizes personal growth. Learn goal-setting techniques, and time management strategies, and cultivate a positive work ethic that will serve them well in all aspects of life.

The “Go Change the World” campaign isn’t just about preparing our students for their first job but empowering them for a lifetime of success. By participating, they’re investing in their and our future and contributing to the vibrant CampusKey community and the broader society.
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‍Ready to Take the Leap?‍

The “Go Change the World” campaign is our student’s passport to a future filled with confidence, skills, and endless possibilities.
Here’s to your success, growth, and a future where the CK Community truly changes the world. Get ready to embrace the adventure – it all starts here at CampusKey!

CampusKey x Apple: Elevating the CampusKey Experience‍

In the ever-evolving landscape of student and professional life, having the right tools is crucial for success. Recognising this need, CampusKey has forged a brand partnership with Apple and the iStore, offering unparalleled benefits to its students and team members. This collaboration isn’t just about products; it’s about enhancing the overall experience of being a part of the CampusKey community.‍

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Empowering Studies and Work with Cutting-Edge Devices:‍

At the core of the CampusKey x Apple partnership is the commitment to providing students and team members with access to the best devices on the market. Apple, renowned for its innovation and quality, brings cutting-edge products to the fingertips of those within the CampusKey community. From MacBooks to iPads, the collaboration ensures that residents and team members have the tools they need to excel in their studies and work.

Exclusive iStore Deals:

The partnership unlocks a realm of exclusive iStore deals tailored specifically for CampusKey residents and team members. These deals go beyond mere discounts; they are crafted to make premium Apple devices more accessible than ever. Whether opting for installment plans or one-time purchases, the unique deals cater to diverse financial preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of top-notch technology.

Tailored Solutions for CampusKey Community:

Understanding the diverse needs of its community, CampusKey ensures that the Apple partnership caters to both students and team members. For students, the focus is on providing tools that enhance the learning experience, making research, assignments, and collaborative projects seamless. Team members, on the other hand, benefit from devices that elevate their professional capabilities, fostering efficiency and innovation in the workplace.

Tech-Savvy Living at an Unbeatable Price:

Being a CampusKey student or team member comes with a major perk – access to state-of-the-art Apple devices at an unbeatable price. This isn’t just about affordability; it’s about creating a tech-savvy living environment where the latest technology integrates seamlessly into every aspect of life. From lectures to meetings, from creative projects to downtime entertainment, Apple’s devices become an integral part of the CampusKey experience.

In essence, the CampusKey x Apple partnership goes beyond being a mere collaboration; it’s a commitment to enhancing the holistic experience of being a part of the CampusKey community. By providing exclusive iStore deals, tailored solutions, and flexible payment options, CampusKey ensures that its residents and team members not only stay technologically savvy but also thrive in their academic and professional pursuits. In the ever-connected world we live in, this partnership exemplifies CampusKey’s dedication to fostering an environment where innovation and success go hand in hand.

At CampusKey, we’re not just about providing comfortable living spaces; we’re committed to creating a vibrant and collaborative community that empowers students to be their best selves. One of the cornerstones of our community-building efforts is the Mentorship Program. In an interview with Louisa, our Experience Manager, we delved into the significance of this program and its positive impact on our student community.

Building Stronger Bonds: The Significance of the Mentor Program

The Mentor Program at CampusKey isn’t just a program; it’s a commitment to building and fostering new relationships within our student community. Mentors play a crucial role in making our community collaborative and vibrant, aligning with CampusKey’s mission of offering students the best version of themselves. We like to think of the mentors as the bridge between CampusKey and our students.

The Birth of the Mentor Program:

The Mentorship Program was born out of the desire to provide opportunities for personal and professional growth while being a student. Being a mentor is a fantastic way to work on leadership skills while having the time of their lives. The program consists of 8 portfolios – allowing our students to learn and grow within their interests. These portfolios include:

1. Academic Mentor 
2. Kindness Factory/Social Responsibility Mentor
3. Social & Events Mentor 
4. Social Media Mentor 
5. Brand Ambassador & Marketing Mentor 
6. Operations Mentor 
7. Mental Health & Wellbeing Mentor 
8. Sports Mentor
   
   

Key Benefits for Mentors:

The CampusKey Mentorship Program offers a myriad of benefits for mentors, both personally and professionally. From developing communication skills and handling responsibilities to learning collaboration and time management, mentors gain valuable life skills. Workshops and opportunities to apply these skills in the professional world further enrich their experiences and let’s not forget about the killer CV experience.

Thinking of being a CK mentor? Here’s some advice:

Louisa’s advice to prospective mentors is simple – APPLY! The Mentorship Program is a transformative journey that enhances confidence, strength, and leadership skills. Witnessing students grow, speak up, and take charge is a testament to the program’s incredible impact.

At CampusKey Mentorship Program is a transformative journey that empowers, nurtures growth, and cultivates leadership. Join us in creating a community where students don’t just live; they thrive!

businesses must

In today’s ever-changing consumer landscape, it’s crucial for businesses to understand the Gen Z mindset, particularly if they aim to be the most stylish student accommodation in town.

As a company, CampusKey understands the significance of keeping up with the latest market trends. To gain more insights into the complex behavior and preferences of Gen Z, we invested in Youth Dynamix training. This has enabled us to create an ideal environment for this generation to thrive and grow.

Unbranded and Experience-Driven:‍

Gen Z is known for rejecting the traditional symbols of success, such as brand names, and instead prefer experiences that align with their values. They value authenticity and unfiltered truthfulness, and brands that offer unique and meaningful experiences are what they like. To cater to this trend, CampusKey has recently shifted its focus to creating and cultivating experiences for its residents. With the introduction of a new position, the Experience Manager, the CK team is committed to ensuring that every student’s time at CampusKey is replete with unique and enriching life experiences that positively impact their university years.

Access over Ownership:‍

Gen Z’s risk-averse and frugal nature places a premium on access rather than ownership. Brands that prioritise providing access to transportation, content, music, and efficient office spaces with fast Wi-Fi are well-positioned to meet the needs of this generation. That’s why when you step into a CampusKey, you will always be met with fast, uncapped Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art study and co-working spaces to ensure our environment gives GenZs access to the lifestyle they crave without breaking the bank.

Peer Power and Word of Mouth:‍

Trust is crucial in Gen Z circles and is established through peers’ recommendations. Word of Mouth (WOM) holds immense power, and opinions, reviews, and recommendations are highly valued. Authenticity is of utmost importance, as Gen Z prefers to receive advice from individuals who belong to their peer group. As a brand in today’s market, the most effective tool for winning over Gen Z consumers is providing exceptional service and ensuring your team cares. There are no shortcuts to gaining the trust of Gen Z consumers; the key is to offer unreasonable hospitality and put in the effort.

Individuality to the Core:‍

Gen Z embraces individuality and independence, eschewing cookie-cutter lifestyles. They seek personalisation, diversification, and genuine human interaction. Brands that cater to their desire for choices, self-reliance, and the opportunity to stand out from the crowd are better poised to connect.

Collective Strength and Cancel Culture:‍

Gen Z is a powerful group that thrives on being authentic and real. They use cancel culture to call out inauthenticity and demand brands that align with their values. This generation relies on individual voices rather than paid marketing. As a brand, we prioritise investing in our current students to ensure that we deliver on the promises we made to our residents. Our slogan, “Live your best life”, is a guiding principle we strive to achieve for every CK student.

As we uncover the intricacies of Gen Z, CampusKey is committed to applying these insights to create the perfect space for this generation to thrive. We understand their unbranded, access-driven, peer-driven, individualistic, and collectively assertive nature. Our mission is to provide an environment that resonates with their values, where unique experiences, authentic connections.

At CampusKey, luxury student accommodation goes beyond comfortable living spaces; it is about creating a vibrant and unique experience for our students. At the core of our offering is hospitality, and our commitment to providing an exceptional living experience is evident in the annual Dynamic Hosting training our CK Team undergoes hosted by The Touch Company.‍

Understanding the Essence of Hosting:‍

The principles of hosting remain universal, transcending cultural differences. It is about one person taking responsibility for another and striving to do their best. It involves caring enough to utilize one’s competence for the benefit of the guest, oneself, and others, while maintaining a delicate balance of these needs.

In our dynamic hosting training, we guide our team through a step-by-step process, emphasizing the importance of understanding and meeting the needs of our residents effectively.
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Step 1: Identifying Needs‍

When hosting someone, the first step is to keenly observe and listen to the guest. What are they saying, and how are they behaving? By interpreting this information, our team can discern the needs of our residents. It is about thinking ahead: What resources are available, what is possible, and who else can assist? This sets the stage for moving to the next step
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Step 2: Effective Communication‍

Having identified the needs, the next step is to communicate effectively. What does the resident need to know now? It’s about finding the right balance, avoiding information overload or providing too little. Clear, concise communication ensures that residents have a clear picture of what is possible and available to them.

Step 3: Empowering with Choices‍

Everyone appreciates having choices and being in control of their decisions. As hosts, our responsibility is to present residents with real, meaningful choices. Avoiding an overwhelming number of options, we focus on doing the work and selecting the best choices tailored to our residents’ needs.

‍Seek to Understand and Be Understood:‍

Our guiding principle is to seek to understand and then seek to be understood. This involves saying what we mean and meaning what we say. The process of hosting is a thoughtful one, requiring hosts to assess the situation, provide clear information, and offer meaningful choices.

The Power of Words in Effective Communication:‍

Understanding that only 7% of communication is conveyed through words, our training also emphasizes the importance of using emotive and descriptive language. People talk in words but think in pictures, and the accuracy of communication depends on creating vivid mental images.

In the words of Theodore Roosevelt, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Our commitment to dynamic hosting is a testament to our genuine care for our residents, ensuring that their time at CampusKey is not just comfortable but also enriched with a unique and vibrant experience.

Welcome to the vibrant world of CampusKey, where your journey isn’t merely a chapter but a captivating book filled with new experiences! As we gear up for an exciting year, CampusKey proudly unveils “Your Future is Bright,” not just as a campaign but a strategic cornerstone rooted in over a decade of in-depth research on the CampusKey Student Journey.

Understanding the CampusKey Student Journey‍

Spanning seven distinct stages, the CampusKey Student Journey is the result of meticulous research conducted over the past 10+ years. Each phase is a critical part of our commitment to enhancing the student experience. The current phase, fittingly known as the adaptation phase, spans the first 6 weeks of a new student’s journey at CampusKey. Here, the “Your Future is Bright” campaign plays a pivotal role, aligning with our goal to create an environment where students seamlessly adapt to their new home and embrace the CK Lifestyle.

The Layout of the Check-in Strategy: Focused and Strategic

The check-in process is not just a formality; it’s a carefully crafted strategy with key focus areas ensuring a smooth transition into CampusKey life.

FOCUS #1: #CK Matters and #OurTeam

At the core of the check-in strategy is the acknowledgment that CampusKey matters, and so does our exceptional team. The warm welcome begins with recognizing the importance of each student and introducing them to the dedicated individuals who make up the CampusKey family.

FOCUS #2: The Human Element of the Student Experience

Transitioning into a new chapter in life can be overwhelming, and that’s where the human element comes in. Our approach goes beyond practicalities; it’s about fostering connections, providing support, and creating a sense of belonging from the very start.

FOCUS #3: Sensory Element of the Student Experience

The “Your Future is Bright” campaign embraces an aesthetic inspired by the Memphis design style of the 1980s. It’s not merely about moving into a room; it’s about immersing students in a sensory experience—vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and bold patterns that symbolize change, growth, and the excitement of new beginnings.

FOCUS #4: The Functional Element of the Student Experience

Beyond the aesthetics, functionality plays a crucial role in ensuring students have a seamless transition. The check-in process becomes the gateway to essential amenities, community integration, and a crash course in CampusKey life—equipping every student with the confidence to navigate the academic year ahead.

“Your Future is Bright” Objectives: Paving the Path to Success

This campaign is more than just a visual treat; it’s a strategic initiative with four key objectives outlined by Louisa, our CampusKey Experience Manager:

1. Connecting Spaces: Forge a strong connection between CampusKey spaces and the campaign, creating an immersive experience.
2. Elevated Check-in Experience: Infuse enthusiasm into the check-in process, making it a memorable start to the CampusKey journey.
3. Warmth and Appreciation: Ensure students feel genuinely welcomed and appreciated throughout the campaign period.
4. Parental Assurance: Reassure parents that CampusKey has their children’s best interests at heart as they embark on this new chapter.
   
   

As we embark on the “Future is Bright” campaign and the adaptation phase at CampusKey, we invite each student to embrace the vibrant experiences awaiting them. From the welcoming embrace of our community to engaging events and thoughtfully designed spaces, this is not just a journey; it’s a celebration of your bright future at CampusKey.

It’s true what they say: first impressions do last, and you never get a second chance to make a great one. So, we thought, why not start making the CampusKey experience a memorable one from the moment a new CK student steps foot in their new home away from home? Our goal is to create a space that feels like a breath of fresh air to our students, where they feel comfortable to engage, develop and grow from the first “Hello”.

So step behind the scenes with us, and let’s dive into everything that goes into curating the perfect student check-in experience: 

Ding-Ding! I’m Ready to check in!
For the first order of business, stop by the check-in booths. The check-in booths are designed to set the tone for an exciting journey ahead. Our friendly staff, dressed with welcoming smiles, are ready to guide CK students through the initial steps of their CampusKey adventure. You will hop from 1 booth to the other, where we breeze through all the admin and introduce you to everything that CampusKey offers, like our exclusive iStore Apple Deals—got questions? You will find all your answers while moving through the different check-in booths. Quick, simple and easy!

At CK, It’s a vibe!

Now for the fun stuff: it’s time to transition from check-in to community engagement. Our check-in community stations, or as we call them, “vibe” stations, are always buzzing with activity, showcasing the diverse range of events and opportunities awaiting CK students. New students can meet CK mentors who help them adjust to student life or offer a shoulder when they need one. At CK, we always need to add fun to the process; this year, it’s a CK Photo Booth! The perfect spot to capture the beginning of a new adventure!

Something From Us to You

Every CK student is greeted with a specially curated welcome gift, embodying the essence of CampusKey. This year’s gift is a canvas CK tote bag. Paired with a campus map, it’s not just about finding your way around physically but also navigating the vibrant landscape of student life at CampusKey.

This is, however, a gift with a plan! It forms part of kickstart events where all the students come together and decorate their CK tote bags with unique styles—creating the perfect space for new students to connect.

So, for all the new CK students, get ready to embark on a journey where every detail, from the check-in stations to the welcome gift, is created & curated to make your CampusKey experience truly unforgettable. Welcome home!

Welcome to the CampusKey Journey – an extraordinary expedition designed for the student who choose to call CampusKey home. Crafted with precision, care, and a decade’s worth of insights and experience, this unique journey is the heartbeat of everything we do at CampusKey. Join us as we navigate through the distinct phases that make up the CampusKey Experience – a perfect mix between discovery, integration, adaptation, and lifelong connections.

Discovery Phase: Unveiling CK

The journey begins when potential residents step into the world of CampusKey. From the iconic CK brand to our carefully curated locations across South Africa, the Discovery Phase is an exploration for those seeking not just accommodation but a lifestyle. It’s the moment when future residents catch a glimpse of the vibrant community they can become a part of.

Curation Phase: A Seat at the CampusKey Table

Two months before check-in, our residents undergo the Curation Phase, a meticulous process where we vet and welcome them into the CampusKey family. It’s not just about finding a place to stay; it’s about finding the perfect fit, ensuring that each individual experience is curated towards their expectations. This includes understanding the student, their needs and wants and assigning them the perfect roommate and/or location in CK where they can thrive.

Onboarding Phase: Seamless Integration into the CK World

Four weeks until check-in, the Onboarding Phase kicks in. Here, residents are introduced to the intricate processes that will shape their CampusKey journey. From pre-arrival preparations to understanding what comes after check-in, this phase ensures a smooth transition into the CampusKey lifestyle.

Adaptation Phase: Embracing #OurWay of Life

The first six weeks mark the Adaptation Phase, where residents immerse themselves in #OurWay of doing things and make their new CK home uniquely theirs. Dynamic community programs such as Freshers week, kickstart week, and the legendary kickstart party play a pivotal role in fostering connections and building a sense of belonging.

CK Life Phase: Living the CampusKey Dream

Beyond the initial weeks, residents enter the CK Life Phase – a time of active engagement, building connections, and living unforgettable experiences within the CK community. This phase encapsulates the essence of CampusKey living, where every resident contributes to and benefits from the vibrant CK life.

Check-out: The Final Touchpoint

As residents prepare to depart, the Check-out phase becomes the final touchpoint in their CampusKey journey. It’s not just about leaving; it’s about carrying the CK spirit forward, forever a part of the CampusKey family, and our team strives to instil that in out students from the first touchpoint to the last.

Post Stay Phase: The CK Legacy

Beyond check-out, the Post Stay Phase keeps the flame alive. Former residents remain engaged with the brand, serving as living testimonials of the CampusKey experience. Who knows, perhaps we’ll welcome the next generation in years to come, ensuring that the CampusKey community lives on.

The CampusKey Journey is not just a series of phases; it’s a testament to our commitment to providing a home away from home, an environment where students thrive, connect, and build memories that last a lifetime. As we continue to evolve, innovate, and enhance the CampusKey Experience, we invite you to embark on this extraordinary journey with us – where every phase is a story, and every story becomes a cherished part of the CampusKey experience.

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