Testimonials

Find out what our residents really think about Shalom College and why it’s the best place for you. 

Testimonials from Overseas Students
(including Study Abroad & Student Exchange)

Gautam, India, 2009, MBA
My one and half years at Shalom were truly memorable. The college gave me the opportunity, not only to complete my degree successfully, but also to learn from the enormously talented residents from around Australia and different parts of the globe. The facilities offered at the college are unmatched by any other residential college on campus or facility in the vicinity. As a resident I was part of the Shalom family. Shalom creates a unique cultural mix which helps achieve a perfect balance between study and social activities. Shalom contributed significantly not only to my personal and professional growth, but it has also given me a global network of friends.

Jacob, US, 2008, Bachelor of Arts
Shalom College provided me with more than just a place to live, but rather it was my home. It would be nearly impossible to list the many great things Shalom College has to offer. Now that I’m back in the U.S., I miss the relaxed and friendly atmosphere at Shalom.  If there was ever anything I needed help with or had a problem with, I would never have to look far as someone was always there to assist.  And, as a new person in a new land, everyone was very accommodating in helping me adjust. I will be back on a visit to catch-up with the many friends I made.

Katie, UK, 2008, Bachelor of Arts
The prospect of studying abroad for a semester is certainly a daunting one. I travelled alone and knew no one when I first arrived, so living in college gave me the opportunity to meet dozens of new people within just a few days. Everyone at Shalom was very friendly and welcoming. I also found it easier making friends with local students which doesn’t happen much for other overseas students who live off campus. My experience at Shalom College was great, mainly due to the friendly atmosphere and people; college events and social gatherings; as well as the living arrangements; nice-sized private bedrooms and quality food. I would definitely recommend Shalom College as it makes settling in to a new country a breeze. I had a ball!

Lauren R, US, 2008, Bachelor of Science
I so enjoyed my time at Shalom College. Of course the sights of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge are second to none, but what I enjoyed above and beyond everything else was the time I spent with the other students in college. They are what made my experience extraordinary. The conversations we had over meals and just sitting around together were truly among the best and most memorable. In learning about other cultures and ways of life, you also end up defining and considering your own in ways you never expected.

Grace, Singapore, 2006, Master of Commerce
I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to live at Shalom College. It was such a good experience. I learnt a lot about many different cultures there. At Shalom I had great neighbours and made friends with others immediately. I truly love the place. If I do get a chance to do further studies in the future, I hope I will be able to live at Shalom again.

Martin, US, 2007, Bachelor of Arts
My time studying in Australia was amongst the most enjoyable of my life.  Shalom College served as a terrific "base of operations" for the study abroad experience.  It was good having my own room, but it was truly special living with so many great people and having the opportunity to interact with such a diverse and interesting group.  Shalom afforded me the opportunity to make many lifelong friends from all around the world. Shalom’s facilities and services were terrific. I particularly liked the food - I don't think I have eaten healthier in my life. All in all, Shalom was a tremendous place to live and I would strongly recommend it to anyone studying at UNSW.

Jenny, Canada, 2007, Bachelor of Commerce
Shalom College was an integral part of why I had such an amazing experience at UNSW.  From the start, I felt welcomed by the tutors, staff, and other residents.  The activities put on by the Resident Society were entertaining and helped me to get to know other students better.  I also enjoyed participating in inter-college sports; even though I am definitely not the best basketball or soccer player, being a part of the Shalom team rewarded me with memories, friends, and made me feel a part of the college.  I recommend that anyone studying abroad who is interested in gaining meaningful friendships with Australians and other International students should stay at Shalom College.  The staff are extremely welcoming, warm, and capable, and I always felt at home at Shalom.

Paul, UK, 2009, Bachelor of Commerce
Thank you for a great year!! I had an amazing time at Shalom and was always made to feel really accepted in the Shalom family. There seemed to be a real feeling of community that I’ve never experienced before and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this style of communal living. There was always someone around to talk to, have fun with, and to lend a helping hand. Being able to get involved in the Residents Society and O-Week planning gave me a real sense of belonging. I can honestly say I can’t imagine my year in Sydney without living in Shalom College, from which I take away many happy memories and some great friends who I am sure I will remain friends for life. It is a great institution, with fantastic staff, and amazing residents. I would recommend it to anyone planning to study at UNSW!!

Lauren S, US, 2007, Bachelor of Science
The comfort and the homely feeling that I came to love about Shalom College made my semester abroad the best  semester of my college experience. I miss walking along the campus and seeing the Village Green Oval and the path that led to the front door of Shalom College. It was more than a college to me, it was my home.  Not only were the facilities absolutely outstanding, Shalom also fostered the environment that I was looking for.  I met really great people and even had the opportunity to travel to and stay in the homes of fellow Aussie residents from rural Australia. 

The staff are so accommodating and went to great lengths to help me with everything. Many of the people that were in my ‘Study Abroad’ group say that they wish they had stayed in a  college like Shalom to meet more of the “locals.” Coming to it was the best decision that I have ever made. 

Jeffrey, US, 2005, Bachelor of Arts
Living at Shalom College was truly an amazing experience in every sense.  I thoroughly enjoyed college and am amazed at how quickly I was able to build relationships and form lifelong friendships.  I am sad to leave my friends, and look forward to the day when I can come back for a visit, or they can come visit me in America. Shalom helped to make my stay in Australia a memorable one.  I am awed by the beauty of Australia.  Studying at UNSW and staying at Shalom was the best decision I ever made.