How Rachel Found Friendship, Freedom, and the Best Italian Food Near UniLodge

When Rachel moved from Singapore to Melbourne to study a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of Melbourne, finding the right place to live was a top priority. She needed somewhere close to campus, comfortable, and welcoming - a space where she could settle in and make a fresh start. She found all that and more at UniLodge.

A Place That Felt Right From the Start
“UniLodge was one of my top picks because of its location,” Rachel says. “It’s within walking distance of the CBD, which makes everything super accessible.”

But it wasn’t just about convenience.
“When I first arrived, I was really impressed by how clean and cosy everything felt. My room was well-organised with thoughtful fixtures and enough storage - it felt like a space that had been designed with students in mind.”

From Meetups to Lifelong Friendships
Looking back on her time so far, Rachel doesn’t hesitate when asked about the highlight of her UniLodge experience.
“Definitely the friends I’ve made,” she says. “Some of my closest friendships started at UniLodge events - the casual meetups and activities the team organises (especially the ones with free food!) were a great way to connect with people.”
It’s these shared moments - bonding over meals, exploring the city together, late-night chats in common spaces - that have made her student life so memorable.

Adjusting to a New Environment
Of course, moving to a new country comes with its own set of challenges. For Rachel, the biggest one was learning how to navigate life independently.
“It took time to get used to the new environment and the fact that I had to take care of everything on my own - from groceries to laundry to managing my time.”
Her advice to new international students?
“Always look out for yourself and take things one step at a time. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or swept up in everything going on, so try to slow down and give yourself space to adjust.”

Her Go-To Food Spot (That You Need to Try)
When she’s not cooking at home, Rachel loves exploring the food scene nearby - and she’s got a top recommendation.
“There are heaps of good food options near UniLodge on Lygon Street. One of our favourites is Universal - it’s a great spot for Italian food, and we keep going back.”

Final Thoughts
From settling into a new country to finding her people and discovering local gems, Rachel’s UniLodge experience has been a key part of her Melbourne journey. It’s where she’s grown more independent, made lifelong friends, and found comfort in the small things - like a cosy room, a warm plate of pasta, and a community that feels like home.
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Thinking about calling UniLodge home?
Whether you're new to Melbourne or starting a new chapter in your student life, UniLodge is more than just a place to live - it’s where your uni experience begins.
Follow Rachel’s journey on Instagram: @rac_inori