They say your university years define you, especially if you’re lucky enough to live on campus.

Choosing which residence to live in can be just as stressful as choosing which uni to go to, and one of the main factors to consider is whether you’d prefer a single sex or co-ed residence.

When I first told my high school friends that I wanted to live at a female-only residence, they couldn’t understand why I would want to put myself through that.

Here’s a list of reasons why I was told to avoid all-female residences and what they are actually like in reality.

Expectation: There’ll Be So Much Drama Living With Girls

Reality: Drama Is Left In High School

Talking about people behind their backs and circulating rumours doesn’t boost your popularity the same way it does in high school.

If someone at my residence tries to stir the pot just for something to do, they get shut down almost immediately. It’s petty and immature, and no one has time for it anymore.

Expectation: Girls Don’t Party As Hard As Boys

Reality: Girls Can Be Even Wilder Than Boys

Girls-only nights out can go from classy wines with dinner, to tequila shots, to vomiting said dinner into the streets, all in the space of a few hours.

The greatest part of heading out with the gals from your residence is knowing that they’ve always got your back. You’ll always have someone looking out for you during the night and someone to head home with.

Expectation: Boys Are Never Allowed Over

Reality: Boys Are Welcome

If you went to an all-girls boarding school, you’ll be familiar with strict rules about when and where boys are allowed to go. While some all-female residences may have some regulations about when boys can visit, most generally don’t care.

You’re an adult now and your residence will treat you like one.

Expectation: You’ll Be Waiting Hours For The Bathroom

Reality: Everyone Has Their Own Bathroom Schedule

It’s a well-known fact that some girls can spend hours in the bathroom. If you grew up with sisters like I did, you’ll understand the struggle of fighting over the bathroom while you get ready for school.

Unlike high school, everyone at uni has different class timetables. They also have their own work commitments, social calendars and extracurricular activities, so it’s pretty unlikely that everyone in your residence needs to use the bathroom at the same time.

Expectation: Everyone Will Be Trying To Outdo Each Other

Reality: Everyone Boosts Each Other Up

University residences are such inclusive communities where you’re really encouraged to support each other in everything you do. You’ll become friends with a variety of different girls, and you’ll find more joy in boosting them up than bringing them down.

No matter whether you go for a single-sex or co-ed residence, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life living on campus. The friends you make and experiences you’ll have will be invaluable. Just don’t forget to study!

Emily Steinhardt is currently studying Journalism and Communications at University of Queensland. She’s a Disney enthusiast who enjoys going out for brunch, taking photos of dogs and a good G&T. 

(Lead image: House Bunny/Columbia Pictures)