From Kilmore to Campus: Finding a Home at Burwood Res

Moving away from home for the first time is a big deal - especially when you’re coming from a small rural town. That’s why we’re so passionate about what we do at DeakinRes. Living on campus isn’t just about convenience - it’s about finding a place to belong, grow, and thrive. 

We recently caught up with Mary-Beth, a current resident who made the move from Kilmore, Victoria, to DeakinRes at the Burwood Campus. 

I come from a rural town in Australia so I had to live on campus at university, and what made Burwood stand out for me was definitely the Residential Leaders on Open Day and the 24-hour security. I was terrified moving out of home for the first time, but during Open Day, the Residential Leader who took us around was absolutely wonderful and understanding. They answered all of my questions and made sure I felt understood. This stood out to me and helped me make the choice to live on campus at Burwood, as I knew I would have constant support. 

That support is something we pride ourselves on at DeakinRes - and it continues well beyond move-in day. Mary-Beth shared how that same care carried through once she arrived. 

The residential team have been assisting me since the day I moved in. In fact, I never knew how much it meant to have someone remember you until I had Residential Leaders who met me only once remembering my name. The team have helped me feel seen and connected.

Mary-Beth

Beyond the warm welcome, what really makes life on Res shine is the sense of community. Living among students from all walks of life, sharing experiences, and creating spontaneous, late-night memories is what sets it apart. 

My favourite part of living at DeakinRes is definitely the community,” she said. “I have spent so many late nights with some of my closest friends who I met through Res and events. I adore being able to be with the people I absolutely adore and have that support system.

And that sense of community starts forming quicker than you might think. We asked Mary-Beth about that classic “will I make friends?” fear most new residents have. 

I found that for both me and others, making friends came naturally. Once you realise that everyone is as terrified and nervous as you are, you create connections and socialising becomes less scary. One conversation can be lifechanging - and you find that making friends is as easy as saying hello.

Our Staff and Residential Leaders (we call them Helpful Humans for a reason!) go above and beyond to make those moments happen. From shared meals and movie nights to creative arts and sport, there’s something for everyone - and always someone to enjoy it with. 

For me, the Burwood interest groups run by the Residential Leader team helped me exponentially feel connected. They made people with similar interests have a safe space to talk about it and indulge in it. This allowed connections to become easier as you are already in a space with similarly minded individuals.

(Quick recap: our interest groups are just fun, low-key hangouts based on shared passions- think surfing, soccer, gaming, knitting, book club, and more. Whatever you’re into, chances are there’s a group waiting for you.) 

Of course, uni life isn’t all fun and fairy lights - we’re here to support your academic success too. From study spaces and quiet zones to events that help you stay motivated, we’re all about balance. 

Both the Deakin Res study spaces and the campus library have assisted with my studies. By living on campus I have been able to access resources easily and this has assisted me in excelling in my studies.

 To wrap things up, we asked Mary-Beth what she thought really sets Deakin Res apart - and we may have teared up a little reading this: 

The vibe on Burwood Res is close-knit. You’ll have a conversation with someone and then they will become a point of call immediately. I have not found one person to be distant or disagreeable - no matter where you go, there are always smiling faces and people willing to make connections and help out.

The connection on Deakin Res is absolutely unmatched. Everyone has their own amazing story, and it is a perfect place to make lifelong stories and relationships. Just have fun and live - these will be the best years of your life so don’t miss them.

 If you’re thinking about joining the Deakin community, Res is more than just a place to stay—it’s a place to Belong Better. 

Applications for 2026 are now open. What are you waiting for?! Apply today.