Opinions of UoM residential colleges

[yakattack]

Hi everyone!

As a rural student considering studying at Melbourne next year, I am looking at the various residential colleges to which I can apply, yet I don't have any solid idea of what differentiates each one. As such, I was wondering if anyone could please give me some sort of an overview of any experiences or knowledge they have of the colleges themselves regarding facilities, general feel — even the food (it's important )! I've checked out a few at the open day this year, although what I've seen and what I've heard (from possibly not the most reliable of sources) has often been conflicting, so I'd like to hear some other perspectives from the people who I would guess know best...

Thanks in advance

[sabkat]

As a rural student in your position last year your best bet is to take a trip to Melbourne and check them all out. I kinda wish I had done so myself 12 months ago.
Get the vibe of each place and go with your gut instincts. Pick a college that suits your own interests (and budget!).

I haven't experienced much of the other colleges so I'll give you a summary of Newman

Pros
+ Newman's fees are one of the cheapest (+ the college it's self is extremely generous when it comes to bursaries/scholarships for those in need. just ask!)
+ Right near lygon st and tram, the gate is legit right next to uni
+ Highest percentage of students with rural backgrounds such as yourself
+ The rooms here although basic, are clean and well maintained (everyone gets a large wardrobe & 70% of people get a sink)
+ The architectures pretty cool if you're into that hogwarts kinda vibe - Newman, Ormond, Queens and Trinity are all pretty old
+ Foods pretty good - vegie options are amazing - meals range from a good parma to a 3 course meal with creme brulee for desert
+ Pretty sick library right on college which is very handy - TV room but I dont really rate it lol
+ A community of lovely supporting people

Cons
- It's meant to be the "strictest" college...
    aka if you act like a tool they'll suspend ya - so its not as rowdy as other colleges
     therefore its pretty quiet when you need to study/sleep (another pro)
- oweek isn't that crazy but they do this to protect the first years.. (no hazing which is nice i guess)
     (((that being said parties still happen and there's still lots of *unofficial* college mischief that you can choose to participate in if you want)))
- formalities - three formal black tie dinners a week can get tiring, a few compulsory dinners/events
- first year you might be put in a small room - its all randomly selected (you might also be put in a huge room though)

I'm pretty biased as this is the only college I've experienced but I recon its pretty good here. You can't really go wrong selecting a college its such a great option for your first year. Moving to the city/uni is pretty overwhelming and college is a great environment to transition
Good luck with exams! Exciting times!