The Iglu Guide | Blog
What is it like living in student accommodation in Australia? A resident’s perspective
Moving into student accommodation is a big step, especially when you’re starting a new course in a new city or a new country. Between choosing a room and packing your bags, it’s natural to wonder what everyday life will look like. Will it be easy to make friends? What’s included in the rent? How long will it take to get to class?
To find out, we spoke with Songrui, an international student studying Master of Art and Culture Management at the University of Melbourne who lives in a share apartment at Iglu Flagstaff Station. Here’s what life in student accommodation really looks like, with insights from someone living it every day.
Bills, Wi-Fi and breakfast sorted
One of the biggest differences between student accommodation and a private rental is what comes with your rent. At Iglu, bills and Wi-Fi are included, so there’s no setting up internet accounts or bracing for a surprise power bill in your first week. Share apartment bedrooms come with a lockable door, a study desk and a bed, so you can settle in from day one.
Then there are the extras. Free weekday breakfast means your morning is sorted before class, the 24/7 gym fits around any timetable, and solo and group study spaces give you somewhere to focus without leaving the building. For Songrui, the study area on Level 1 is the go-to spot when assignments start piling up.
This all-in-one setup is a big reason so many first-year students choose purpose-built student accommodation. “As a first-year student in Melbourne, it felt safer and more convenient than a private rental,” Songrui says.
Close to uni, closer to the city
Location shapes student life more than most people expect. A shorter commute means more time for study, sleep and seeing friends. Every Iglu property is close to universities and public transport, and for Songrui, the trip to the University of Melbourne takes around 20 minutes by tram.
Living centrally also puts the city right on your doorstep. When it’s time to switch off, Songrui heads to Flagstaff Gardens, and weekends are for exploring Melbourne’s museums and catching up with friends. Getting to know Melbourne’s public transport early on makes it easy to discover your new city beyond campus.
A social life that’s built in
Making friends at uni can feel daunting, especially if you’ve moved from overseas. Student accommodation takes much of the pressure off, because your community is already there, just a few floors away.
Iglu runs free events throughout the year, giving residents an easy way to meet people beyond their own apartment. Songrui’s favourite was the welcome dinner. “We had Italian food, and that’s where I met my best friend in the building.”
Resident Leaders and the on-site team play a big part too, helping new residents find their feet and making sure no one feels left out. “The Resident Leaders are like friends to me,” says Songrui. “They’re always happy to talk, and they solve problems really quickly.”
The honest truth about student life
Moving away from home does take some adjustment, and that’s completely normal. “It can take some time to get used to a new environment,” Songrui says. “But there are lots of activities, which has helped me make so many new friends.” Saying yes to events in your first few weeks is one of the quickest ways through it.
Another surprise for Songrui was who lives in student accommodation. “I thought everyone would be around the same age, but there’s quite a range. Some residents are doing master’s degrees, some are PhD students and others are undergraduates.” That mix is part of the appeal, bringing together people from different courses, countries and stages of life.
And the experience can change you. “I’ve become more optimistic and outgoing, and I enjoy outdoor activities more than before,” Songrui shares.
When it starts to feel like home
For many students, there’s a moment when a new building stops feeling new. For Songrui, it’s a rainy afternoon with a cup of tea and a favourite show. “Whenever I’m out having fun and get really tired, I just want to come back as soon as possible. I guess that’s what it feels like to be at home.”
Tips for moving in
Planning your move? Songrui recommends packing a few comforts that make a room feel like yours: a good duvet cover, a comfortable pillow and a small mirror. Beyond that, the best advice is simple. “If you can, join as many events as possible. You’ll meet more people and make more friends along the way.”
Image: Iglu Flagstaff Station resident, Songrui.
