St Hilda’s College

In 1888, a seed of an idea was planted. Dr. E.H. Sugden, the first Master of Queen’s College, expressed his hope for a women’s hostel on the university grounds. This vision blossomed into St Hilda’s College, a vibrant hub nestled within the University of Melbourne. St Hilda’s College opened its doors in 1964, welcoming students from regional Victoria, interstate, and overseas. Initially a women’s college, St Hilda’s broke barriers in 1973, becoming one of the first co-educational colleges at the University of Melbourne. This progressive step mirrored the spirit of its namesake, Hild of Whitby, a 7th-century abbess who founded a co-educational monastery. St Hilda’s College isn’t just bricks and mortar. It is a community, embodied by its motto, “Communitas”. This translates to “community in feeling” or “oneness in spirit”. St Hilda’s College provides accommodation for 240 undergraduate students, along with residential advisors and staff. The college fosters a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. St Hilda’s College also boasts a rich history. The land it occupies was generously donated by Queen’s College, a piece of land once affectionately known as the “cow paddock”. Today, modern facilities like the Brian James Wing, completed in 2007, offer en-suite accommodation and spaces for graduate students and visiting scholars. St Hilda’s College actively participates in the university’s sporting and cultural scene. From Australian rules football to netball, and from battle of the bands to fresher dance-offs, there is something for everyone. St Hilda’s College continues to embody the forward-thinking vision of its founders, nurturing a diverse and inclusive community where students can transform themselves and, in turn, transform the world.