Get your black and gold jersey on and support the Iowa Hawkeyes storm to victory as they play basketball at Carver-Hawkeye Arena or football at Kinnick Stadium. Congregate for pizza and beers after the game at one of the city’s great restaurants or bars, like Sanctuary Pub. Slow things down on Sundays with a boat trip on the Iowa river or a stroll along walking trails in one of the parks and reserves that line the river. Just out of town, you can take in views of corn fields, prairie grasses and farms, then feel inspired to cook up your own feast using fresh ingredients from one of the local farmers’ markets.

You won’t need to set your alarm early when you live at 419 S Johnson Street, a 15-minute stroll or five-minute drive from the western edges of the University of Iowa. Walk right by Starbucks along the way and pick up a coffee, then return your books to the main library before class. Afterwards, stay on campus and attend a club event at the Iowa Memorial Union, or listen to live jazz and grab a bite to eat at Clinton Street Social Club.

From your home on South Johnson Street, you can walk or cycle around the city easily. Cross the campus to game night at the Kinnick Stadium, or use the university athletics fields to keep fit. A 20-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride, you’ll be cycling by the pretty Iowa River, watching people out on their boats. After evenings out, you can grab a cab and be home in no time.

Spread out in a one-bedroom apartment all to yourself. You’ll find it easy to settle down to study when you can come home to a quiet space. Sit at your own desk and work on your assignments, reaching for textbooks and folders that you can organise just how you like them in your bedroom. Store all your belongings neatly and keep your home clutter-free, then take a quick nap on your comfortable bed when you need to recharge your batteries. Spend a relaxing evening in your kitchen cook dinner for friends.