What Resis Love About Living on Res

Stepping onto Res is more than just moving into a room - it’s the beginning of an experience filled with connection, community, and moments that quickly turn strangers into friends.   

From shared dinners and spontaneous hangouts to big events and quiet everyday routines, living on campus has a special way of making uni life feel fuller, faster. 

While every Resi’s journey is a little different, familiar moments and shared experiences tend to shine through when they reflect on what they love about living on Res. 

Res feels like home (faster than you’d expect)  

For many students, moving onto Res is their first time living away from home, and it doesn’t take long before things start to feel familiar.  

Nicko Tsuro, who lives on Res at the Waurn Ponds Campus, shares:  

Living on res has honestly been one of the best parts of my uni experience so far. One of the things I love most is the friendships I’ve built here. Being surrounded by people from different backgrounds but all going through similar experiences makes it really easy to connect, and I’ve met some amazing friends who’ve made campus feel like a second home.  

The events on res are also a huge highlight. There’s always something happening from social nights to themed events and activities, and they’re always really engaging and fun. It’s such a great way to take a break from study, meet new people and feel part of a community. The atmosphere is always welcoming and lively, which makes living on campus really special.

It’s the everyday moments. Shared meals, quick chats between classes, and spontaneous hangouts that turn a place to live into somewhere you truly Belong Better.  

You’re never far from anything (or anyone)  

Living on Res comes with a level of convenience that makes everyday uni life feel easier and more connected. 

Andrew Crawford, who lives on Res at the Burwood Campus, comments:  

What I love about living on Res is the fantastic opportunities that come with it. You’re right near all of the amazing clubs the University offers, as well as our fantastic res events! Coming from Gippsland in regional Victoria, it can be difficult to adapt to city life so it’s important to have a strong support network around you. Deakin Res is great for supporting anyone in their move to city life!

Being close to classes, clubs, study spaces, and social activities means more time for what matters. From study sessions to social catch‑ups and everything in between. 

The community is built in  

What stands out for many Resi’s is how easily meaningful connections are formed.  

Halle Hicks from the Waterfront Campus shares:  

For me, living on campus has been the best way to meet such a wide range of people. I’ve made friends I never would’ve met otherwise, and it’s made uni feel a lot more social and enjoyable. I’m a VERY social person, so I love how easy it is to always be around people, whether it’s just hanging out or going to events. Living on the water front in Geelong is definitely a bonus as well. The views are unreal, and we’re lucky enough to have a Level 11 balcony which makes for the best photos, especially around events like Res Ball, which is probably my favourite part of the year! It’s such a fun night to dress up, celebrate, and make some of the best memories with everyone.

From organised events to simply being surrounded by people, there are endless opportunities to meet others and feel part of something.  

There’s space for both study and downtime  

Life on Res isn’t just about big events. It’s also about the small, everyday moments that make life feel rich and balanced.  

Charlee Harvey from the Warrnambool Campus reflects:  

For me, living on campus has been the best and most transformative experience of my life. With this being said, it’s almost impossible to pick just one favourite thing about being a resident here at the Warrnambool campus.  

There are so many things to love about living here. I can’t count the number of sunsets that I’ve watched over the Hopkins River, or the number of times I’ve stopped my car (probably very inconveniently) to look at the koalas on Res.  
 
However, if I had to choose just one favourite thing, it’s the people that have made my time truly unforgettable. My time on res has shown me just how quickly and how genuinely friendships can form. I went from having a morning coffee by myself to a morning coffee with my friends on the veranda. While I once studied at my desk (likely surrounded by energy drinks in a caffeine haze), I now study in the common rooms. Even cooking dinner is a social affair. The communal kitchen feels like a hub of connection.

From morning coffees to shared dinners, these are the moments that shape the Res experience - and the ones students remember long after they leave.  

Every campus has its own vibe  

While every Resi experience is unique, there’s a common thread across all campuses - community, connection, and a place to belong.  

What makes it special is that each location adds its own flavour. Some students love being close to the coast, others enjoy the energy of a busier campus, and many find comfort in the quieter, close-knit feel of their surroundings.  

But no matter where you live, you’ll find a mix of it all. Spaces to socialise, places to focus, and a community that makes campus feel like home.  

It’s less about choosing a ‘type’ of campus, and more about finding your place within it.  

It’s a place to grow  

When you ask Resi’s what they gain from living on campus, it goes far beyond convenience. 

It’s confidence. Independence. Friendships. Memories. 

Because Res isn’t just about where you live - it’s about the people you meet, the experiences you have, and the version of yourself you grow into along the way. It’s a place to grow, thrive, and truly Belong Better.