A fun start to 2025!

What a start to 2025 we have had here at DeakinRes! 

This year alone, 2,861 students have chosen to call Res home— and we’re not surprised! With 1,708 fresh faces diving into the experience for the first time and 1,153 returning residents coming back for another round of fun, food, and friendship, it’s safe to say DeakinRes is the place to be. 

And speaking of fun, there has been plenty of it! Throughout our three-week Orientation period, our residents had 211 events to choose from—yes, 211! Whether it was heart-racing theme park adventures, chill coffee catch-ups, hands-on art workshops, action-packed sports showdowns, or just an excuse to indulge in some epic foodie events, there was something for everyone and we made sure that everyone had an opportunity to belong and find their forever friends. 
 
But settling into Res isn’t just about the big events—it’s also about finding their feet and making their new environment look and feel like home. Our residents had plenty of time to go slow, explore their new surroundings, and figure out the essentials—like where to grab last-minute groceries or the must-have items they couldn’t squeeze into their suitcase. Campus tours helped them get their bearings, icebreakers made meeting roommates and floormates easy (and way less awkward), and the ‘How to Adult’ series? Well, let’s just say it was a lifesaver for those tackling laundry, budgeting, or cooking more than just instant noodles for the first time! 

Of course, moving into Res isn’t just about the events or having a home away from home — it’s about feeling like you belong. That’s where our Helpful Humans, our Residential Leaders (RLs) came in. These legends were there to make sure our residents settled in smoothly, found new friends, and felt part of our community from day one. 

One of our RLs, Angus, summed up his experience like this: 

"Orientation was a blast! Meeting so many new people and helping them settle into Res life has been super rewarding. Whether it was the amazing food or the awesome activities, I loved being part of such a welcoming community." 

Asking Angus more broadly what it has been like to be a part of the Residential Leadership team, he said; 

"It has been SO worth it! We were in the same boat just a year ago, so we know what it’s like to take that huge step into the unknown. Having an amazing team of RLs and staff makes the job even better—it’s been a wild, supportive, fun-filled ride, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings!" 

We know that it can seem daunting and perhaps outside of your comfort zone to move on to campus, so we finally asked Angus what his advice may be to people considering DeakinRes for either later in the year, or 2026 and he said;  

"You are what you think about—so think BIG. Moving out, starting Uni, showing up to that event you weren’t sure about… it can all feel scary at first, but the best things come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Trust me, some of my best friendships and favourite memories have come from saying yes to new experiences. Res is about building a community, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world!" 

DeakinRes is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an experience that makes University life easier, more connected, and so much more enjoyable. Living on campus means waking up just minutes from your lectures, with easy access to libraries, study spaces, and support services that help you stay on top of your academic game. There’s no commuting stress, no unexpected bills, and no missing out on last-minute coffee catch-ups or late-night study sessions. Plus, with utilities like internet, electricity, and gas all included, budgeting is a breeze. Most importantly, it’s a safe and supportive environment where you’re never alone—there’s always someone around for a chat, a study session, or a spontaneous adventure.  

So, after the amazing Orientation period our residents have had, their attention is now set firmly on their academic studies with Trimester 1 well underway (which we know will be all the richer after having already found their footing, made lifelong connections, and created a home away from home!) 

Check out this video to see just some of the fun our residents got up to throughout Orientation and we can’t wait to welcome you to DeakinRes soon!