It’s never too late to apply for a hall of residence for 2019. Applications are still open for Trimester 2. Here is Bronny Hallett’s story of opting in to hall life half-way through the year.
Unlike most of her fellow 2018 hall residents, Bronny spent her first trimester living at home in the Wellington suburb of Seatoun, while studying at Victoria University of Wellington. Although she enjoyed her studies and university life, she felt she was missing out. Bronny took the plunge and moved into a hall of residence in the second trimester, choosing Capital Hall as her home for the rest of her first year.
She quickly felt the difference of living with her peers, close to the University. “My overall student experience definitely lifted after moving. As I became familiar with other hall students and staff members, there were more friendly faces around and I felt extra settled and comfortable”.
She also found that events such as hall-organised quizzes and competitions, as well as socialising with fellow residents, helped her bond with other students. The social connections and support network provided by Bronny’s hall proved beneficial for her studies too. “I met many students studying the same courses, which really helped me academically.”
Living close to campus was particularly useful at assignment hand-in times, giving Bronny extra time to finish her work. “Last-minute catch up classes or study meet ups with friends were also more accessible as I was so close to the University.” There was an added bonus that any first-year student could appreciate: “Even if I woke up late, I would still be able to make my lectures and classes on time.” Bronny says some of her school friends who are also at university, but remained living at home, had a very different experience from hers. “Many of them did not make the social and academic connections that I did.”
Bronny’s memories of her first year are special and most result from her decision to step out of her comfort zone and immerse herself in campus and hall life. She met people who she would never have crossed paths with or grown close to, had adventures in the city, and felt truly connected to the University and her community. “It is a big decision and there are many factors to consider, but the supportive environment made me feel looked after and part of something bigger.”