What it is like living on campus at Deakin

So, you have landed in Australia and you are taking your first steps at university. For many new students, this is process can be a daunting, but also exciting. Every year, Deakin welcomes thousands of students looking to study and immerse themselves in all the amazing things Australia has to offer. To make sure every student feels welcomed, supported and excited to begin their university experience, Deakin hosts a wealth of events and activities for new students to engage in.

A stable choice

Living in Deakin’s residences, is an excellent choice because you know what it will cost. Housing rental markets worldwide are increasingly more expensive. It is sometimes hard to find good affordable apartments. Deakin’s on-campus accommodation offers a more affordable alternative. It is easy to apply and access.  You don’t have to think about paying bills – utilities  such as internet and electricity are included.  You won’t have to pay for transportation every day, because you can easily walk to your classes. This also saves time!

A welcoming environment

You will be welcomed by Residential Leaders and go on a guided tour of where you will be staying. Many students who come to Deakin choose to live at Deakin’s residences. The residences are safe, comfortable and full of things to do in your down time.You will also be staying with like-minded students who share your aspirations to make the most of campus life. Burwood student Vaishali reflects on her experience living at Deakin’s residences saying, ‘I have grown into an individual with valuable social, interpersonal and job-oriented skills throughout my journey.’

Here is a quick rundown of what’s planned for your first weeks at Deakin. Once you are settled in at Deakin’s residences, known as ‘Res,’ you will receive a welcome pack and merch gift. This will have some essentials and tasty snacks for your first day. All students who are living at Deakin’s residences are invited to Resi-O-Week, a two-week program set up to ensure all residents are settled into their home and get a chance to meet their fellow students they will be living with. There will also be a series of events set up from the moment students arrive, to ensure everyone feels welcomed and excited about their time at Deakin and in Australia. These include a Welcome to Country, local tours, a shopping trip and wildlife experiences.

 ‘Being a Residential Leader, I want to make it a smooth, enjoyable, safe and welcoming environment for everyone.’ – Sakshi

Students staying at Deakin will be welcomed by a supportive network of Residential Leaders. Resident Leaders are there to support you while living and studying at Deakin. They will also be able to introduce you to new friends once you arrive. Sakshi is a biomedical science student and a Residential Leader at the Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus. Sakshi became a Residential Leader to support students living on Res, understanding the challenges faced by students arriving in Australia for the first time, having travelled from India herself. ‘Being a Residential Leader, I want to make it a smooth, enjoyable, safe and welcoming environment for everyone… You will be surrounded by awesome people so don’t stress. Everyone is unique, so don’t try to change yourself to align with majority,’ she assures.

Deakin is increasing its number of Residential Leaders, meaning new students will be highly supported while studying and living at Deakin. There is also a growing number of international students as Residential Leaders so they will understand your situation.

Another way Deakin welcomes students is through Orientation Week, known as ‘O-Week.’ O-Week is a week-long showcase of activities, events, and festivities. It is also a fantastic opportunity to explore the lively campus and meet new people as you engage in all the fun events on campus. Sarbjeet, known by his friends as ‘Sunny,’ advises all students coming to Australia to ‘attend as many O-Week activities as possible.’ O-Week is a great way for students to get comfortable on campus and learn about what is on offer for the coming year. It is a great time to enrol in DUSA clubs, team sports and learn about upcoming events.

 ‘Choosing Deakin University and Deakin Res has been one of the best decisions of my life.’ – Vaishali

Sunny has been involved in a few O-Weeks in his time at Deakin, ‘Market Day is on one of my favourites,’ he says. Market Day features over 70 stalls set up on Deakin’s campuses highlighting clubs, partners and community organisations, handing out free food and gifts. Sunny also recommends Mystery Bus Tour and Glow Party.

Vaishali admits, ‘although the transition from home to Res is a huge one, it is certainly a lifetime experience… I would highly recommend any student to embark on this journey. Choosing Deakin University and Deakin Res has been one of the best decisions of my life,’ she says.

Quick links

Learn more about living in Australia

Discover upcoming DUSA events