How the Narrm Scholarship helped Bethany make Melbourne her home

Moving from Shepparton in regional Victoria to study in the heart of Melbourne was always part of Bethany’s plan but financial security was a concern. Receiving the Narrm Scholarship, including relocation support, was for her, an even greater relief than getting her course offer.

“Knowing that I could get most of my accommodation paid for was life changing.

“Knowing that I wouldn't have to stress about working long hours while studying to afford accommodation and food really solidified Melbourne as the university for me.”

Settling into a home away from home

New friendships and the financial support of the Narrm Scholarship have made Melbourne a true second home for Bethany. She now lives at Little Hall, a vibrant student residence offering social, cultural, sporting and volunteering opportunities.

“It is the perfect accommodation for me; the tutorials and academic enrichment program means that I can excel academically.”

Living in central Melbourne has also helped Bethany explore her new home.

“What I love about living in Melbourne is that public transport makes anywhere in the city really accessible, and the culture and various attractions in Melbourne means that I am constantly finding new places that I didn't know existed!”

Adjusting to the transition from high school

Adjusting to university brings new responsibilities, and more independence in managing your learning. But Bethany says that you don’t have to undergo this transition on your own.

“You are much more independent in university compared to high school where you had teachers around all the time to help you.”

“The support in this transition has definitely been there, all of the lecturers and tutors at the University are really understanding about the jump from high school to university and are more than happy to answer questions.”

Discovering new academic interests

Bethany always knew her passion was in science, which led her to the Bachelor of Science. She was drawn to the degree’s flexible structure, with more than 40 study areas across science, biomedicine, mathematics, engineering and IT.

“The University of Melbourne has an extremely high reputation for science and the flexibility in the Melbourne curriculum appealed to me.

“When I first entered my degree, I intended to take chemistry as my major. However, after exploring my subjects in my first semester particularly surrounding maths particularly I am now considering having data science as my major.”

She encourages students to take advantage of Melbourne’s multidisciplinary approach.

“There are so many opportunities available at Melbourne, so when choosing Melbourne, you know that you will come out of your degree a well-rounded person!”

In her second year, Bethany plans to go on exchange, with further study or employment in her sights after graduation.

Exploring diverse interests and connecting with students

As a Narrm Scholar, Bethany has taken part in tailored academic and wellbeing activities designed to help students grow and connect.

“Activities such as the camp and career workshop days have taught me how to be a more confident person as well as how to network in my future career.

“The fun activities and support from the staff mean that I feel really supported and welcome while I go through university.”

She enjoys spending time with friends at the bustling Parkville campus.

“My favourite thing to do on campus is to meet up and hang out with friends between classes. A couple of my favourite spots to do this the Student Pavilion on a sunny day, and when the weather isn’t great, the Rowden White Library is a great place to chill and relax.

“The Narrm scholar community has provided me with a network that I would have never had otherwise, additionally it provides me an avenue to explore opportunities which I never would have had before.”