Meet Nurul Alicia: How UniLodge Lincoln House Became Her Home Away from Home

Moving to a new country is never easy - especially when you're leaving behind family, friends, and all the comforts of home. But for Nurul Alicia Mohamad Wazir, a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) student from Malaysia studying at the University of Melbourne, choosing to live at UniLodge Lincoln House made all the difference.

We recently caught up with Alicia to hear about her international student journey - from her first day in Melbourne to late-night dinners with friends and the unexpected joy of learning to cook her own pumpkin soup.

Why UniLodge?
Alicia chose UniLodge Lincoln House because of its strong affiliation with the University of Melbourne. But what truly stood out to her was the community atmosphere - and the hotel-style interior didn’t hurt either.
“I was really excited to meet new residents,” she recalls. “My first impression was that it felt like a hotel - really clean and modern.”

Making Connections, One Meal at a Time
One of the things Alicia appreciates most about life at UniLodge is the communal spaces, especially the shared kitchen and eating areas.
“It’s a great place to meet new people,” she says. “The community here is amazing - there are so many bonding events, which made making friends much easier.”
Over time, Alicia has found her people. “I’ve made a small Malaysian community here - about 14 of us - and we have dinner together daily. I’ve also connected with other ASEAN students, and we’ve gotten really close this past year.”

Settling into Life in Australia
Living with other international students has helped Alicia feel less alone during the transition to a new country.
“I met so many people going through the same struggles I was. It made a huge difference in helping me settle in and feel at home.”
But like many new students, Alicia faced some early challenges - one of the biggest being cooking for herself for the first time. Luckily, she had plenty of support.
“I learned from friends around me, and now I know how to make pumpkin soup from scratch!” she laughs.

Little Wins, Big Impact
For Alicia, one of her proudest achievements has been the friendships she’s built at Lincoln House.
“There are 13 floors in this building, and I know someone from nearly every one of them. That’s something I’m really proud of.”
Advice for New International Students
When asked what advice she’d give to future UniLodge residents, Alicia doesn’t hesitate:
“Do it for the plot. Take risks (safely) and put yourself out there.”
Her biggest tip? Say yes to events, introduce yourself to people, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone - it’s the best way to make the most of the experience.

Favourite Spots
Alicia’s favourite place in Lincoln House? The Level 5 kitchenette.
“I met most of my neighbours while sitting there and studying. It’s a great place to unwind and socialise when you’re tired of hitting the books.”
Outside of UniLodge, she’s discovered a little taste of home just a tram ride away.
“Nasi Kandar Brunswick. The Malaysian food is to die for.”

Final Thoughts
For Alicia, UniLodge Lincoln House isn’t just student accommodation - it’s become a second home, filled with shared meals, unexpected friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
And if she had to do it all again?
“I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m really happy where I am.”
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Want to be featured next?
We love hearing our residents' stories. If you're an international student living at UniLodge and want to share your journey, get in touch with the team. You might just inspire someone else to take the leap.

Follow Alicia’s journey on Instagram: @nrl_alicia