Finding the right place to live during university can be a real challenge. Daniel Virin, a student at the University of Bristol, has come up with a smart solution to make this easier. He’s created Cribster, a platform that uses artificial intelligence to help students find flatmates who are a great fit.
Cribster’s AI algorithm works by matching students based on things like budget, location, personal values, hobbies, and habits. The idea is to make it easier to find the right living situation, cut down on empty rooms, and ease the stress on student housing markets.
Shriya Pillay, another student, knows firsthand how stressful it can be to find housing at the start of the academic year. She says, “I remember starting to look for housing and flatmates just a couple of months into my first year at university.” It’s not just about finding a place to live, but also about finding the right people to live with, which can be just as tricky.
Many students, like Shriya, often turn to social media to find flatmates, but this can sometimes lead to less-than-ideal experiences. Daniel is working with his twin brother, who’s an engineer, to create a mobile app for Cribster. He understands the rush to find housing can lead students to make hasty decisions, which can impact their university life.
Jovan Navjee, a Cribster user, shares how the platform has positively affected his university experience. He says, “Since moving in, we’ve really clicked, and having the right flatmates has made a huge difference in my overall university experience.”
The University of Bristol has recognized Daniel’s entrepreneurial spirit by awarding him £4,500 through the Jim and Peggy Wilkinson Awards to further develop Cribster. His innovative approach has also earned him accolades for addressing a crucial aspect of student life.
Mark Neild, an associate professor in innovation and entrepreneurship, praises Daniel for tackling a vital part of student wellbeing. Cribster meets a significant need in the student community, making it a game-changer for many.
