Fresher Update – Six Weeks In

By Sam Kohler

The first-years at St. Hildas, or “freshers,” have been settling in for about 7 weeks now. They’ve made friends, submitted their first uni assignments, and gotten around a multitude of college events. So I thought this would be a perfect time to ask them some questions about what they love about Hilda’s, things that are hard, and some things that they never expected after being about two months in. As a strong believer of saving the best for last, let’s start with what they’re finding challenging so far. 

Life at St. Hilda’s is undeniably full to the brim with activities to get around – a reality that can be hard for some students. Not because they’re not enjoyable but almost the opposite. The jam-packed calendar of the College makes us want to do it all, even when it’s not possible. As a result many experience FOMO. Freshers noted that balancing the sheer amount of activities provided at Hilda’s with uni workload, connecting with friends, and taking time for yourself could be a real struggle in the first few weeks while they were still adjusting to their new home. Being far away from home can also be a real struggle for many students at college. Moving to a new city or country, as most Hildarians do to come here, can leave many feeling homesick or like they’re constantly playing catch-up as they navigate a new culture. Overall, coming into a completely new and sometimes overwhelming environment like a residential college is not always easy. But, students do not have to handle these struggles alone. 

It’s really supportive. I’ve been surprised by how much wellbeing support we actually have.

– Anonymous Fresher

When asked about how they handle these situations, the freshers interviewed all spoke to how helpful the in-depth well-being (pastoral) care at college is. From senior resident advisors (SRAs) who check in with students regularly, to the administrative team at College who provide academic, personal development, and mental-health support to students, Hilda’s ensures that students feel supported.

Freshers noted that these support systems have alleviated some of the challenges of adapting to their new home. Special note was made to the academic support provided to students to help them stay on top of workload and provide any extra assistance they might need. The extent of these support systems is surprising to many first-years, but consistently appreciated and valued by the students here at Hilda’s. 

Another aspect that surprised first-years upon arriving at College was how welcoming everyone was. Freshers were shocked at how inclusive the Hilda’s environment was and how much everyone got involved in the student life here. While the extensive Hilda’s calendar can be overwhelming at times, many also mentioned how much they appreciated the variety of activities and opportunities at College. But perhaps the best part of College, the freshers found, is the number of people that you can surround yourself with. Living in such an active, welcoming, and friendly community makes making friends easy, and feeling lonely nearly impossible. 

While most of our first-years are also first years in University – either having taken a gap year or coming straight from school – some are second years at uni looking for a different experience compared to their first year. One of the Freshers surveyed lived in another type of student accommodation during her first year of university. Coming to College looking for a safer environment that made making friends easier, she says that she is much happier now that she is at Hilda’s. From safety concerns, to loneliness, to ease of free washing and not needing to cook, St. Hilda’s has made life much easier and more enjoyable.

It’s hard to make friends in other [types of] accommodations. I didn’t see my roommates for months at a time. I knew they were alive because I heard them cooking in the kitchen but I had no idea how they were doing.

– Anonymous Fresher 

The first-years also gave advice to anyone looking to come to Hilda’s. Chief among them was not being afraid to come in alone and say yes to everything. Most who come to Hilda’s don’t know anyone at the College, with many not knowing anyone in all of Melbourne. While this can be scary, the freshers made it clear that this is not an issue, and may even be a good thing. As everyone who comes into college is looking to make new friends and connections, not knowing anyone beforehand very quickly becomes a non-issue and can even help you integrate with your cohort. As long as you try to say yes to as much as possible, are friendly to your fellow Hildarians, and put yourself out there to the best of your ability, you will do great here. 

So our freshers are doing great! They’ve settled into their new home, overcome some challenges, and are taking advantage of every opportunity they can. And when they feel they need help, they know exactly where to find it. All-in-all it’s been a great start to the year and I’m excited to see how these amazing freshers help this College grow!