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Outstanding assignment marks will not guarantee a job interview. Instead, employers now demand a broader skill set that cannot be taught in a lecture hall, a lab, or via Zoom.

Identifying this gap in the market, Josh was driven to form Campus Consultancy, an entrepreneurial leadership enterprise aiming to teach young leaders the principles, strategies, and mindsets that allow them to be impactful as both community members and workplace contributors. Having successfully worked with 26 Universities nationwide, St Hilda’s are now benefiting from Josh’s vision and expertise.

After connecting with St Hilda’s through the networking app LinkedIn, proving Josh’s strong belief that the path to success is 70% who you know, an Employability Program was created to develop strong connections with students, dedicated to self-improvement to further their career prospects. This structured program is tailored to all year levels with the aim to develop students personally and professionally, to gain an invaluable skillset for application in their future careers. With commitment, Josh guides students through the process and mentors them from day one in 1st year, throughout their time at the College.

For Josh, it is clear that embarking on a career is vastly different to that of prior generations. The Employability Program has woven in skills to boost emotional intelligence, perfect interview technique, and proposed volunteer opportunities for participants. With an emphasis on building an extensive, engaged community both in-person and online, Josh urges all students to reach out to their field mentors for coffee meet-ups, and communicate with role models regularly, as he has found this immensely beneficial for networking and job opportunities.

Josh views the act of leadership as a service to others, one which will undoubtedly bring happiness and fulfilment to those who partake. Now that his business has flourished beyond means, Josh will stay ahead of the curve, knowing what employers are looking for, and mentoring students to meet that need.

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In a residential college, our welcome to new students happens each academic year in the week before University begins.  Orientation Week, ‘O Week,’ and Welcome Week are just some of the names colleges use around the country to denote this very special week.  We put much time and effort into the week so that new students are quickly incorporated into the community, feel a deep sense of welcome and belonging, and feel prepared to transition into university-level education. 

Feeling safe is a basic need for all people.  At St Hilda’s, our first two days of O Week are completely dry—no alcohol—and are designed to ensure that every new student can settle in without the ill effects that alcohol can often bring where insecurity is rife.  Our O Week leaders, all senior students who have lived at the College for at least a year, have received at least two weeks of training that ensures they understand their role in making sure that all new students experience warmth, care and community.  There are no coercive events, no hazing of any kind, and no yelling.  Students are placed in family groups with two leaders, who nurture them and help facilitate relationships.  Our expressed goal of O Week is two- fold:  to create a sense of safety and to create a sense of belonging.  If we have run a successful week, students are settled into their new home and ready for the challenges of university.

We do have a few tricks up our proverbial sleeve.  Throughout the week, our leaders practice inclusivity.  One of our ‘rules’ is that no one can start their own table in the dining hall if there is room at another one.  This ensures that no one is sitting alone, or even feels awkward sitting down with others they don’t know, as the expectation is that you will take your place at a table that is not yet full.  This ‘rule’ is one of our new students’ favourites, as it minimises the social anxiety of walking into the dining hall with no one to sit with.   This rule continues throughout the year.  Further, our leaders are a very diverse range of our students—male, female, non-binary; science, arts and design; domestic and international; outgoing and shy.  New students who see someone ‘like them’ represented in the leadership team feel instantly that the college is a welcoming place for them.  Finally, we encourage new students to do without their phones throughout the carefully designed days of O Week so that students give conversations and trying new things their complete attention.  It is very hard to embrace a new place with only one arm if the other arm is still holding onto home. 

At the end of our Orientation Week, we ask all first years to rate the week out of 100 against the criteria of feeling safe and feeling a sense of belonging.  We also ask for comments of each event to ensure that we continually improve the week for next year’s group.  This year’s rating is just above 93/100.  As young people are pretty tough customers, we are pretty proud of that.

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Healthy residential communities can transform a person.  Social researcher, Hugh Mackay, in his recent book, The Art of Belonging, argues that to experience community, we need security—both physical (‘I’m safe here’) and emotional (‘I belong here’).  Mackay’s premise is that once we have security, we can accept responsibility for the wellbeing of others:

The place we live matters…it’s more about the people than the place; more about belonging than acquiring; more about engaging than cocooning.  That’s why, when we experience the little miracle of connection with a community, we hear ourselves say, ‘I feel at home here’ (p 7). 

At St Hilda’s College, we work hard at ensuring that every new student moving into our community feels secure.  Our motto is Communitas, ‘the spirit of community.’ From the warm welcome of Orientation Week leaders, senior students who help settle in our new students, to the week’s activities designed to help students feel prepared to start university and navigate Melbourne, we want our students to finish the week saying, ‘I feel at home here.’  

St Hilda’s will welcome new students on Saturday with hope that 2021 will be a more ‘normal’ year than the one before.  Last year, our 2020 new students rated Orientation Week a 92% out of 100.  Some students named it as the ‘best week of my life so far.’  A college community is indeed a very special group.  From every state and territory of Australia and New Zealand (sadly, our usual cohort of international students can’t join us because of closed borders), our students are a good representation of the University itself.  Rural, Urban, Suburban, diverse backgrounds and ethnicities, our students will live in community with others that are from somewhere else studying something different than they are.  While differences abound, everyone is here for the same reason:  to flourish at university.  

In my experience, therein lies the magic.  That ‘same reason’ unites us.  The ‘student experience’ is lived here.  Residential tutors, mentors, alumni and friends of the College, and staff invest deeply in developing each and every individual as a part of this diverse community.  Each person finds their place in the community and makes it the special network that it is and becomes a better person for doing so.  Again, Mackay is helpful here.  He argues that there is a ‘symbiotic relationship between community and morality…If we only connect with people we like or who share our interests (how will we learn) tolerance, patience, compassion, kindness and respect?  The way we respond to people who are unlike us is the best test of our moral integrity’ (p 33).  

In the next three blog posts, I will outline some of the ways that students develop in community.  I look forward to you joining me.

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Seeking other sporting opportunities, Nick branched out to the wider community and signed up with the Brunswick City soccer club in late 2019 to play semi-professionally. Despite not knowing any other players prior to joining, Nick has found a strong community within his under 20’s age group and sees the team as a valuable addition to his social circle.

With free time on his hands due to sport being cancelled in 2020, Nick has channeled his energy into keeping fit so that he will be match ready once the restrictions ease. This commitment involves strength-based training sessions focused on maintaining technique and agility, combined with cardio-focused speed play sessions targeting endurance – a vital skill needed for his position as a centre midfielder. Nick also focuses on injury prevention methods. Maintaining this regime has been made possible with the ready access to both the College and University gyms located on the doorstep. In his own words, Nick’s experience with soccer has enriched his life skills in so many ways, from improving his self-confidence and study motivation, to enhancing communication skills from interacting with players from different backgrounds and age groups. Being a strong advocate for an achievable sport-study life balance, Nick has found that the additional high-level sport commitments has in fact improved his time management skills in a way he has not experienced before. 

Outside of soccer, Nick has found the support and connections he has made within the College community to be so valuable. From playing a competitive round of ping-pong or pool in the Junior Common Room, to testing his chess abilities in the library, there really is something for everyone at St Hilda’s. 

Nick was appointed as the senior Student Ambassador for the College this year, taking prospective students on tours and helping coordinate recruitment activities. He plans to stay in 2021 and complete his Undergraduate degree, and enjoy the St Hilda’s College living and learning environment to enhance his overall University experience. 

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Having played netball since year 4, and progressing to the Seniors competition by the age of 16, it is no surprise that the fine sporting reputation at St Hilda’s enticed Claudia. As she described, her home town places great emphasis on community sport as it binds everyone together, and allows the families from neighbouring areas to meet regularly. From an early age, Claudia has participated in annual tournaments, travelling from town to town to compete, building lifelong friendships with team mates and competitors. As a first year St Hilda’s student settling into Melbourne and college life, Claudia maintained her hometown commitment and travelled the four-hour trip back to play in the Sea Lake Netball Competition. That’s serious dedication and enthusiasm. It was the team connections and sheer enjoyment that Claudia found within her sporting community that kept bringing her back week after week during the netball season.

Claudia was equally committed to St Hilda’s and played in the 2nds team as part of the intercollegiate sports program, providing her with another avenue to form close bonds with students from other year levels. She values the highly competitive nature of the intercollegiate competition, and the chance to represent her beloved college community and learn from inspiring student coaches. The 2019 season concluded with the team as runners up as a result of a three-point loss in the Grand Final. Although disappointed, Claudia felt that the strong team spirit and immense support from the College community minimised the impact.

After planning to lead the 2nds team as co-captain this year, Claudia was disappointed to hear that there would be ‘no court time’ in 2020 as intercollegiate sport would be cancelled due to the pandemic. Looking forward, she hopes to eventually join a local Melbourne club and continue to flourish as an athlete, and meet many new likeminded team mates.

Claudia’s skillset extends beyond her athletic ability and commitment to community sport. This year she was awarded an internship as the St Hilda’s student photographer; a paid work placement for current College students studying at the University of Melbourne.  Having completed the VCE subject Studio Arts, Claudia was a prime candidate amidst a strong application pool.

The St Hilda’s community looks forward to the recommencement of intercollegiate sports, with Claudia and our other netball superstars keen to bring home the silverware in 2021!

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After being inspired by the high tertiary ranking at the University of Melbourne and all the opportunities offered at St Hilda’s, the two made the bold decision to leave their family in Hong Kong and travel overseas to study and pursue their futures. Both students are studying a Bachelor of Science and hope to major in Animal Health and Disease.

Mindy and Jennifer were enticed to St Hilda’s by the warm and welcoming community.  Despite not attending the campus for an Open Day tour, they were able to digitally explore the college through the highlights and community videos found on the website. After a short time at the College this year, the inclusive cohort size felt just right and like a family. Their decision to move here was the right one.

The girls noted how welcomed they felt even prior to arriving at Hilda’s, pointing out how helpful they each found the various emails and surveys in the lead up to their arrival, enabling a smooth transition. Most importantly, they were pleasantly surprised at the honest attention given to them by the staff and Principal, Dr Brenda Holt, being asked if there was anything else they need to help make their new home feel even more comfortable.

Having lived at Hilda’s during the COVID-19 restrictions from March, the girls found that being on the same campus together to be comforting. Mindy exclaimed her gratefulness for the quieter days, as it allowed them to form deeper connections with the other students who were onsite too during those months. The pair spent their time in the library revising for exams, and embracing the academic support offered by tutors which they attribute to their pleasing results.

Fitting neatly into the group of international students guided by third year student and International Representative Ian Lam, there were plans for cultural food evenings and support events that have unfortunately been put on hold for now. However, the twins know that their transition from Hong Kong has, and will continue to be, the right decision. St Hilda’s is their second home, and they belong here.

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The tour at St Hilda’s was the standout one for her.  Naomi’s guide was warm, funny and welcoming.  “He talked about life at St Hilda’s, and the importance placed on community.  I liked that”.

Born to Romanian parents just one year after their arrival in Australia, Naomi and family moved to Wangaratta so they could run a farm. They have cattle, and theirs is one of just ten chestnut farms in the North East region of Victoria.  The local population is around 30,000 people. Naomi attended Cathedral College, where she was House Captain to 100 students from Prep to Year 12.  A keen sportswoman, she played soccer for Wangaratta, as well as tennis and softball.  “Athletics is the sport I really love.  I have participated in this at college too, along with soccer, softball, hockey and tennis.  I even tried out for footy which was really fun”.

Naomi was active in the community in Wangaratta, contributing as a leader in the Army Cadets.  Her duties as a Corporal included working with a group of 13 to 15-year old’s teaching them marching drills, navigation, first aid and radio skills.  “We were sent on a leadership course where we learned to plan activities and excursions.  It was a lot of fun”.  She was also on the town Youth Council where she worked as Deputy Mayor.

“Coming to College it was very hard to leave my family, but I knew I was ready to grow and embark on the career path that would lead me to becoming a doctor.  At the University of Melbourne, I have been challenged in all my subjects.  There is so much content to get through – it has been hard but enjoyable.  The lecturers are so engaging, and I love the diversity of teaching techniques they each offer.  I really enjoy the tutorials and lectures!”  Naomi continues: “College provides such a conducive environment for studying and I have been able to knuckle down and make the most of it. The residential tutorials here are really engaging – I go to the Chemistry, Biology and Psychology ones.  I love the focus on each of us – the tutors help us with the content and make sure that everyone in our small group understands.  The whole experience has exceeded my expectations”.

If Naomi were to choose one word to sum up the St Hilda’s experience it would be opportunity.  She feels the college has given her so much already, and she could not have come without the scholarship.  Inspired by two of her childhood heroes, Leonardo da Vinci and Einstein, she too wants to make a change in the world.  She is not sure yet whether she will pursue research in oncology or follow a more ‘hands-on’ path and become a surgeon. 

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Third year student, and the inaugural College Queer representative, Ciara, has a mindset and strong voice for equality that embodies the Communitas spirit. After visiting a fellow college for a routine ‘Dinner Swap’ event, Ciara noticed there was a gap that needed to be filled within her own community.

Originally from Armidale, NSW, Ciara was thrilled when she arrived at St Hilda’s and was given the space and time to create something she was truly passionate about; a supportive group for LGBTQI+ members within the College to provide a solid support network. 

Ciara had big plans for 2020, and some may just come to fruition subject to restrictions. The proposed St Hilda’s Pride Night is an on-campus evening focussed on beneficial conversations surrounding the Queer community. Starting with a rainbow themed formal dinner accompanied by a range of musical acts and entertainment, the night is stamped with success. The introduction of LGBTeas to facilitate informal meetings and discussions over a cuppa and nibbles, and collaborating with the intercollegiate colleges to participate in the Queer group picnic, to allow friendship groups to form, are also on the wish list. 

This year Ciara was appointed as one of the ten inaugural College RA’s (Residential Advisors), an outstanding group of students who provide pastoral care support for their year group. The RA training was comprehensive including RSA (responsible service of alcohol), first responder and first aid training, preparing the RA’s with skills to equip them for the year ahead. This training was put into practice during O-Week where the RA’s welcomed a new cohort of students and built a sense of belonging in a few days. Ciara noted her favourite activity during this time was the charity project. Students were given a modest budget and instructions and managed to purchase 1,100 items. These items came together into 56 care packages for those less fortunate. As a new College activity, the positive feedback and the opportunity to make a difference was a highlight. 

In Ciara’s mind, her roles as the Queer representative and an RA are simple. Encouraging the College community to engage in healthy discussions, in safe spaces, with strong leadership. Ciara is acknowledged for her efforts at Hilda’s, and further inspires others to share their thoughts.

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The St Hilda’s College Humanitas Scholarship will be open to undergraduate students, who have experienced barriers related to having a refugee background, and are enrolled, or intending to study at the University of Melbourne. The scholarship is valued at 100% of College fees per year (maximum three years), or 50% of fees if awarded to two students.

The College was founded with the motto of Communitas: a ‘community in feeling’ or ‘oneness in spirit’.  This means that we care about each other, but also care about making a difference beyond our community. In accordance with these community values, the Humanitas scholarship seeks to raise awareness and understanding of the refugee experience.  It aims to increase the knowledge of all students and the wider community. 

As the youngest college at the University of Melbourne founded in 1964 by a group of formidable women, St Hilda’s College takes great pride on being pioneers who create opportunities and welcome people in. This inclusive and egalitarian spirit underpins life at St Hilda’s. It’s a place of connection and community where daily experiences are shared, and support for one another to be their best and contribute to making the world a better place.

The St Hilda’s College Scholarships and Financial Assistance Program awards over 85 scholarships annually, valued in excess of $600,000, funded by alumni and the wider College community.

St Hilda’s College is centrally located in College Crescent, Parkville, and backs onto the University of Melbourne oval. It is a place that develops authentic leaders, problem-solvers and change agents for a global society.  It is a living community of 240 people who belong to each other, and work together to connect their university experience with the world’s issues.  The purpose of St Hilda’s is to educate, inspire and launch young people into their adulthood with the self-confidence, vision and know-how to improve the world. 

A St Hilda’s education is transformational, empowering and sets students apart from other university graduates. Every member of the St Hilda community feels included, supported and like they belong. Mutual respect, care and warmth characterise our interaction with one another. People can be themselves because they are accepted and loved for who they are and who they can become.

College Principal, Dr Brenda Holt said “we are delighted to offer this transformational College experience to prospective students, and look forward to welcoming the Humanitas Scholarship recipient.”

Applications for the St Hilda’s College Humanitas Scholarship are now open and close on 25 November 2020. Prospective student enquiries should be directed to the Admissions Administrator at admissions@hildas.unimelb.edu.au, by telephone on +61 3 9248 8416

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