Belong Better at Deakin Res

At DRS, we know how important it is to create a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for you to develop a sense of belonging and to thrive throughout your studies. We're confident that through our programming, facilities and support from helpful humans that we can help you belong better!

With Health and Wellbeing forming one of our five Student Experience Pillars, there's always something on offer to help you to look after yourself physically and emotionally while living on Res.

With fantastic resources like the Zen Zone in Burwood (pictured), the Wellness Space at Waterfront (also pictured), book nooks and chill out zones and a range of excellent events, we're hearing great things from our residents.

When reflecting on the value of the Wellness Space, Waterfront resident Kerry said,

In today's fast paced world, it's important to be able to quiet one's thoughts. The room provides the necessary and beautiful space to do so.

and went on to say,

In my opinion, your physical surroundings have a profound influence on your success... one of the best ways to help students relax and unwind is by providing a space that makes them feel at home. This is especially critical for overseas students, when home is so far away!

This sense of wellbeing has shone through in Deakin's Wellbeing and Inclusion survey, with residential students showing significantly higher levels of satisfaction, inclusion, belonging and safety than other Deakin students. This means a lot, because Deakin University is consistently rated the best university in Victoria for Student Experience!

Our Campus Life and Residential Leader teams run heaps of great events across our campuses, adding to the vibrant and supportive lifestyle our students enjoy. These events are designed to help residents create meaningful connections to each other and settle into Res. Reflecting on the effects of this programming at his campus, Waurn Ponds resident Michael said,

The College Cup and sense of belonging reflect how engaging and connected our community has been. When we see our residents outside of Res, be it at class, at the beach, or at local sport, we have a sense of pride knowing we are all connected back to Res, our Home.

This strong focus on positive student experience and high level of residential engagement has not gone unnoticed, with DRS receiving an Excellence in Student Experience award from the Asia Pacific Student Accommodation Association in 2022. DRS is proud of this achievement, and continues to focus on student wellbeing, engagement and experience as we nurture our vibrant and diverse residential communities and help them to belong better.

Want to read more about our Student Experience Pillars and what to expect if you live on Res? You can find out more here.