You might be convinced you can only get a proper university experience in the Eastern states, however universities in Perth have just as much to offer. Whether you decide to study at UWA (a world top 100 school), Curtin, or Notre Dame, there’s a chance for you to immerse yourself in the rich university and college culture. Here are 5 reasons why you don’t need to go east for a “true” university experience and some testimonials from our interstate students.

1. Our universities have rich campus culture and so do the colleges

Living on campus at UWA means you’re exposed to both the college and university culture. St. Cat’s hosts events every week, and if you have an idea for one, you can host your own! These range from casual events like movie nights to formal events like our balls. You also have a chance to get involved with the other colleges on college row with inter-college events. College row hosts IC sporting events, debate, and battle of the bands so there are many opportunities for you to branch out and meet students from other colleges. On an even larger scale, visiting UWA campus gives you many opportunities to network and make friends with other students. Reid library and the guild village are two popular spots for students to hang around campus and mingle. Further, we host students from all of the universities in Perth. No matter if you’re looking to study at Notre Dame in Fremantle or ECU in Joondalup, we have the accommodation for you!

2. There is so much to do!

A big misconception about Perth is that it’s boring, but there is so much to do and see. Whether you want to explore on a road trip, check out some live music or eat some delicious food, Perth has got something for you. Having fun doesn’t need to break the bank, and there are plenty of student-friendly entertainment options close to College for you to enjoy. St Catherine’s also has a full calendar of social, sporting and artistic events for you to enjoy throughout the year

3. Make friends from all over the world

When you stay at college, you have opportunities to meet students from around the country and from around the globe. Although COVID has caused us to have a limited international population the past two years, St. Cats is hosting 80 international students this school year, 24% of our student population. Before travel restrictions, we had an international population of around 50%. Interstate students make up 10% of our population, so there are many opportunities to meet people from different walks of life and find friends from similar backgrounds, even if you’re not from Perth!

4. Feel safe on campus

At St. Cats, your comfort and safety is our priority. Each student has their own keycard they use to get access to areas around college including entry points, the dining hall, and their room, making us one of the most secure colleges in Perth. University security can walk you back from class, and our residents also have access to 24/7 support from staff. We are also equipped with indoor and outdoor security cameras, so if a problem does arise, it can be easily resolved by our staff.

5. Receive support to achieve your best

University can be a stressful time, and it can be hard to balance study, work, social life and looking after your mental and physical health. St Catherine’s offers comprehensive support to it’s residents so that you can focus on the important things. Whether it’s having your room professionally cleaned, getting free academic tutoring, joining in a sport or keeping busy with social events, College helps you make time for the important things in life.

An interview with our interstate students

We asked some of our interstate students about their decision to study in Perth. Here are their responses:

Why did you choose Perth?

“I chose to study in Perth because I received a very attractive course offer at UWA that I couldn’t refuse. Coming from a big city like Melbourne, I had not heard much about Perth other than the two AFL teams that they had. However, after being in Perth for 9 months, I have fallen in love with the city and it has impressed me in so many ways, from the beaches, to the nightlife, to its scenic beauty. However, most of all, I’ve met some truly wonderful people in Perth which has completely elevated my experience.” - Peter from Melbourne, VIC, studying Dentistry

What expectations did you have about the college experience?

“I thought there would be a lot of partying etc and it's probably actually more low key than I expected. I was just hoping to meet some people and was slightly concerned that there would be hardly anyone near my age, but there are more than I expected.” - Tor from Brisbane, QLD, studying Medicine

“Having done my undergraduate Bachelor’s degree at the University of Melbourne, I had friends at college who had told me stories about college life in Perth and the lively nightlife scene. Thus, I was excited but slightly wary, since I’m personally more reserved and don’t tend to indulge in such activities too often.” - Peter from Melbourne, VIC

What has your college and university experience been like in Perth?

“Really liked Perth and college, although I feel like college is probably best experienced as a fresher.” - Tor from Brisbane, QLD

“I have had a phenomenal time at college so far! It has been incredibly different from my expectations. Through college, I have found amazing friends, a tight-knit community, and been able to attend so many fun and wholesome events, from charity concerts, to firepit nights, to intercollege sports competitions. In terms of university experience, I think the UWA campus is one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever seen, with its luscious green gardens and iconic sandstone buildings. It is a pleasure to stroll through (or rush through in my case when I am late to class). Furthermore, student life is great, with so many university clubs and societies meaning that there is something for every type of student and interest!” - Peter from Melbourne, VIC

What would you say to interstate students who are considering studying in a WA university?

“I genuinely think college is a great way to find your feet after moving interstate, even if it's just for the first year so that you can meet people to move out with. I think using flatmates.com etc is risky as you can end up with difficult people and I am really glad I came to college and have made some great friends.” - Tor from Brisbane, QLD

“Do it! The prospect of moving across the country was such a scary thought for me when I first received my offer to study Dentistry, but in retrospect it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The capacity for personal growth and development has been immense, and I have learned so much about myself through the process of being independent. St Cat’s has been incredible for helping me make that first step in living alone, where they have still provided a great network of friends and staff to lean on when I am struggling with anything!” - Peter from Melbourne, VIC

See more articles on our blog site here.

5 Reasons to Have a College Experience in WA