One thing we can all agree on is that the transition from university to high school is a big one. There are many things that a domestic or an international student needs to take into consideration before making the move. Alongside the academic responsibilities, the anxiety, financial pressure and physical exhaustion start to take a toll on one’s health which can trigger procrastination and ultimately result in bad grades. While some students cruise through their degree, on the other hand, some try hard to make two ends meet while managing a part-time job, family, finance, and health.
Over the course of my degree and work at Curtin University, I have had the opportunity to meet many students who share these factors in common. I am one of them who is managing a degree alongside gaining work experience. It is a difficult choice and maintaining family and finances on top of that makes it even more difficult. Students often don’t earn enough wage to buy a house in their early twenties, especially when studying at university. Studying in a developed country like Australia means adjusting to the western culture, workforce, and living standards, and learning to strive for bigger and better things. This is an additional pressure faced by international students who migrate to study here. Finding accommodation and paying for their degree are the top concerns amongst international students studying at Curtin.
Image by Tabassum Ishra – St Catherine’s College, Curtin University
Similarly, domestic students who are studying full-time may not be able to afford rent, therefore, prefer to live in places where rent is less. Transitioning to university means learning to cope with the tsunami of responsibilities and the financial burden that can further accelerate burnout. Students planning to move out are often anxious about adjusting to their new lifestyle and study routine. This is when they really have to take the time to consider and evaluate their financial choices. While some stay with parents or family, some move-out and some make the decision to live at university.
THE PROS AND CONS OF LIVING AT CURTIN UNIVERSITY
There was a time when I considered moving to university to live. Since I work at Curtin and also study here, it would have been very convenient for me to have moved. Curtin is known to have a supportive community that is safe, residential advisors to guide students, and 24/7 security. There is free parking available during off-peak hours and free stadium membership. The rooms are fully furnished and clean. It is very convenient to stay at the university as most places are within walking distance. This can help students save additional transportation money and save time. Personally, I feel there are many advantages to living at University, however, students will eventually feel homesick. Being away from family is difficult and managing a degree alongside puts additional pressure.
Illustration by Tabassum Ishra – Student Enquiry at Curtin Connect About Accommodation
Did you know there are over six different places for students to stay at Curtin University?
The Erica Underwood House, St Catherine’s College, Guild House, Kurrajong Village, Vickery House, and Twin Dolphin Hall. There are also residential apartments for short stays at Curtin as well. Visit the link below to find out more information.
https://study.curtin.edu.au/campus-life/accommodation/perth-on-campus/
STUDENT EXPERIENCE LIVING AT CURTIN UNIVERSITY
Recently I had the opportunity to interview an international student regarding the accommodation services at Curtin and this is what Jeffin Kuttan had to say (Masters of Engineering). Jeffin is also a Curtin University Destination Australia Scholarship Awardee who is very interested in making a positive impact in the field of mining engineering.
- How was your experience studying and living at Curtin as an international Student?
“It was overwhelming at the beginning as it was my first time in Australia. I came over to Australia to study Masters of Engineering and initially was not living in Perth. I resided in Kalgoorlie which is a more subtle area and Covid made me a bit worried. However, I enjoyed staying here and enjoyed being part of the community.”
- What did you think about the accommodation services at Curtin?
“The accommodation was good. We had 4, 6, and 8 bedroom options. For the first year I stayed in the 4 bedroom ones with colleagues and friends. It was an enjoyable experience! Afterward, I stayed in the six-bedroom ones and that was good as well. I meet different people from different nationalities, made new friends. It felt like being part of a family.”
- What was your favourite part of living on campus?
“The favourite part would have to be the fact that I was living right next to the campus. I didn’t miss out on much since Kalgoolie is like a small branch of the Perth Campus. It was a lot of fun. Kalgoorlie has a rich history as well which I thought was interesting.”
- Would you recommend people to live on campus and why Curtin?
“If you are an international student then I would suggest staying on campus for a year in the campus. This will help you understand what university life is like. There isn’t a lot to worry about as most things are ready for you, and things are set up and fully furnished. I would definitely recommend this.”
Overall, students who have been part of the Curtin community enjoyed their stay on campus. It has helped them make meaningful connections and familiarise themselves with the culture better. “It is convenient to study and stay at the same place. The environment at Curtin is amazing,” Jeffin Kuttan.