UWS Opens Its Doors

Hello fellow bloggers and followers, 

                                            

An interesting new development has come alive at my university. The University of Western Sydney has expanded its residential campus. As a student and resident of the residential college I am personally delighted that more international students will be coming to our shores. I hope I can learn a new language!
But, we all know all good things come at a price.

Here are the fees:

Personally I think it’s reasonable considering the price is all inclusive. Here’s what each domestic or international student receives while residing on campus:

1. Accommodation close to your classes.
2. Common room amenities including pool table, table tennis, Foxtel, computer labs and outdoor BBQ areas.
3. On-site activities organised and hosted by the student resident assistant (RA).
4. 24-hour security.
5. Furnished rooms.
6. Electricity, water and gas included in the rental price.
7. Wireless Internet.
8. Cleaner for communal areas.
9. Making new friends from different cultural backgrounds.

Now, some might say that the resident assistants are lucky because they receive a 50% rent decrease for their hard work on campus. However, Alannah Maher thinks otherwise.

“Organising social events is right up my alley. The pay for being an RA is only a 50% rent reduction. Many people think about taking up the position purely for that reason but that can’t be your only motive. It’s a huge responsibility and it involves a lot more work than some people realise. It can be a fulfilling and fun position when you feel like you’ve done something right, when a social event is a hit or when you can tell you’ve helped an individual feel more comfortable on campus. Without the rent reduction it may not even be possible to afford to live on campus.”

Sounds tempting doesn't it? But she also continues to say that once every few weeks a resident assistant must remain on campus for the entire weekend and not move. No freedom?

I don’t know about you readers out there but that’s a tough requirement. I mean what if I needed to go to the local grocery store to buy milk or sugar to bake my little cupcakes? As a resident assistant I would have to stay put and have to do with my Arnott’s biscuits as a dessert. Don’t think I could handle that for the entire year!

One thing I would love is meeting with all the international exchange students and listening to their stories. Although, exchange rates are declining, the few I’ve met on campus are super sweet and have the most amazing cultures and traditions. International dinner nights, and activities such as visiting the local farm, bowling and paint ball shooting is the perfect environment for making and maintaining friendships.

Staying on campus does have its positives and negatives. Would you consider living on campus if you were currently studying at a university?

Let me know by commenting below.