How the Narrm Scholarship helped Emily make Melbourne her home
When Emily left her hometown of Cobram to pursue university in Melbourne, she knew she was stepping into a new chapter. What she didn't expect was how quickly that chapter would become filled with friendship, opportunity and a sense of belonging.
Having previously moved to Melbourne for boarding school, Emily was already familiar with living away from home. But university presented a new level of responsibility.
"It definitely prepared me for living independently," Emily says. "But university has challenged me in new ways, particularly around managing finances, balancing study and making decisions completely on my own."
Emily at the Brighton Beach Marathon
Drawn to Melbourne's vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to continue pursuing her passion for triathlon, Emily always hoped to study Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne. Receiving the Narrm Scholarship helped make that goal a reality.
"The scholarship has had a profound impact on my life," she says. "It has given me access to quality accommodation while pursuing my studies and has helped make my university experience possible."
“I was fortunate enough to receive an offer to live at Little Hall, which I enthusiastically accepted. Between its beautiful architecture, exceptional facilities, welcoming staff and proximity to campus, it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.”
A place to belong
After accepting a place at Little Hall, Emily quickly discovered the benefits extended beyond accommodation.
"Living at Little Hall has strengthened my autonomy, confidence and resilience," she says. "It's encouraged me to appreciate the importance of community and connection."
The transition to university life came with the usual challenges of balancing study, commitments and day-to-day responsibilities, but Emily embraced the opportunity to grow through those experiences.
Looking back, she believes some of the most important lessons have come from stepping outside her comfort zone and trusting herself to navigate unfamiliar situations.
"Every challenge has helped me become more adaptable and self-reliant," she says.
Emily’s room at Little Hall
The friendships that changed everything
While Emily has balanced university, triathlon training and even completing a marathon during her first year, it is the friendships she has formed that stand out most.
Her favourite part of university life has been sharing an apartment at Little Hall with two other Narrm Scholars.
Despite busy schedules and competing commitments, the three have built a friendship that has become one of the most meaningful parts of her experience.
"We always return to an apartment filled with positivity and genuine friendship," Emily says. "We've become an incredibly close-knit trio, and living with them has been the absolute highlight of my year."
Emily and her housemates at Little Hall
It's these everyday moments, whether sharing meals, catching up after classes or supporting each other through challenges, that have helped transform Melbourne from a university destination into a home.
"The sense of community has made such a difference," she says. "Knowing there are people around you who genuinely care creates a really strong feeling of belonging."
Embracing every opportunity
As she reflects on her journey so far, Emily is grateful not only for the support the scholarship has provided, but for the experiences that have come with it.
From developing independence and confidence to building lasting friendships, the past year has been filled with moments that have shaped who she is becoming.
Reflecting on her experience so far, Emily believes growth comes from embracing new opportunities and stepping beyond your comfort zone.
"Attend events, introduce yourself to new people and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone," she says. "Some of the most rewarding experiences begin with taking that initial leap."
For Emily, "University is about so much more than obtaining a degree. It's an opportunity to discover who you are, build meaningful relationships and grow into the person you aspire to become. The Narrm Scholarship has given me the freedom to do exactly that, and I'm incredibly grateful for everything it has made possible."