Mastering Uni Life: Insider Tips for New & Current Students
Whether you’re just starting out at Deakin University or a seasoned student, here are some tips to help you along that journey and adjust to the new environment by making friends, finding your way around campus and working out your own unique study groove.
For those who are returning, sometimes it's good to refresh and refine your study skills. This will keep you motivated and help you tackle the ever-present pressure of university life.
A key to succeeding along this journey is balancing your studies and social life by staying organised, asking for help when needed, and taking care of yourself. Here are a few tips – including joining clubs, where to eat, and how to access the many resources available – to help you make the most of your Deakin University journey!
🎉 O-Week is kicking off on Monday, 24th February, and it will be an epic start to the year! This is your chance to dive into uni life, meet new friends, and get involved in many fun events and activities.
Don’t miss out on all the action – check out this link to register for exciting events happening both on campus 🎓 and online 🌐. No matter what you're into, there’s something for everyone 🎉. Can’t wait to see you there! 🙌 The online social session sounds like A LOT of fun 🤩.
New to Campus? We’ve Got You!
Starting uni comes with a million questions – where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your experience. Instead of stressing, check out this handy list of Orientation FAQs to get all the answers you need and feel confident about your first day on campus.
Take the pressure off and start your uni journey with ease! 😊🎓
Think of Support Services as your go-to crew on campus! If you're sorting out your enrollment, need help navigating the library, or just want extra study support, they've got your back. From disability services to health and wellbeing, Student Services is here to make uni life easier. Don’t be afraid to reach out – help is just a click or a phone call away!
👉 Check out all the support available here! 💙
📚1. Study Tips: Resources & Planning 🎯
Imagine this – you’re starting a new trimester, ready to take on your units, but then… BAM! You realise you need textbooks, research articles, and a game plan to stay on top of everything. Don’t stress – Deakin has everything you need to study smarter, not harder.
Let’s break it down:
📖 Finding textbooks – You don’t need to panic-buy every book on your unit guide. Some are available as e-books through Library Search or your reading list via your individual unit site – a huge win! Alternatively, there are always past students looking to pass on their second-hand (and usually near-new) textbooks. One person’s textbook is the next student’s treasure! 💎
🔍 Searching like a pro – Instead of spending hours lost in Google (where the research articles aren’t always top quality), learn how to plan your research, which may be as simple as jotting all your ideas down onto paper and then finding exactly what you need without the headache or lacklustre articles.
📚 The “how do I find…” struggle – Looking for that peer-reviewed article, primary source, or unit readings, there’s a trick to tracking them down – Deakin’s library resources make it super easy. And honestly, I’ve found the staff at the library to be so helpful! Do yourself a favour and get to know this very resourceful team.
🎨 Creating awesome content – Uni isn’t just about essays! You might need to create infographics, presentations, or videos. Plus, many tools are available at the Deakin Software Library to help you make them look amazing. These include Microsoft Teams, Microsoft 365 (for Mac and Windows), and OneDrive (just to name a few).
✅ Is this source even legit? – Not everything you find online is reliable (looking at you, sketchy websites). Learn how to evaluate your sources so your research is rock solid.
💡 Using & sharing wisely – Copyright rules, referencing, and helpful study tools? Yep, they have guides for that too! Ensure you know the university’s rules around these things, as not following them could lead to uncomfortable conversations – or worse, consequences.
📌 And of course, study support! – Deakin has resources to keep you on track when you need a study boost, assignment help, or simply some motivation.
So don’t wait until week six to get organised (I know, I’ve been there and done that, and it wasn’t pretty) – get ahead now! 👉 Explore all the study resources here! ✨and here 👈
Hey, if you’re looking to level up your research game, check out the Research Tools and Software at Deakin! It’s packed with all the guides, videos, and training resources you need to get a handle on those essential tools.
Struggling with referencing? 😕 Don’t stress, you’re not alone! It’s one of those tricky things that can catch us off guard, but here’s the good news: Deakin has plenty of resources to help you nail it! 📚 Even if you're starting from scratch or just need a quick refresher, you’ll find easy-to-follow guides, tips, and examples. 🙌👉 Check out all the referencing resources here. Getting referencing right can save you from losing important marks in your assessments, and that could mean the difference in getting that pass! 😌✨
Looks like you’re all set for success!
There are so many tools out there that can make your referencing and research work much more manageable. Honestly, I didn’t even know most of these existed at first... but now, I couldn’t imagine getting by without them! Here are a few great ones to check out:
📚 EndNote – Free for Deakin staff and students! 🎉 You can download it here.
🔧 JabRef – Open Source, a solid choice if you like customising everything. 🔥
🎓 Mendeley – Mendeley Institutional Edition is free for Deakin staff and students. Just sign up using your Deakin email. ✅
🦊 Zotero – Available for Firefox or as a standalone app. Free online storage up to 300MB 📦, with extra storage available if needed.
Seriously, these tools can make referencing much easier and more efficient! Once you try them, you’ll wonder how you managed without them. 🙌
✨📚2. Study Groups: Learn, Collaborate & Succeed! 🤝🎓
Okay, let’s talk about study groups! 📚 Creating a study group is a total game-changer at uni for many reasons. Not only does it help you actively learn by chatting through your ideas and picking up different perspectives on the content, but it also keeps you motivated. Whether on campus or online, having a group to keep you on track with weekly content is super helpful.
I study online. So, creating a virtual group is a great way to stay connected. Deakin allows you to reserve library study spaces in the library, which is perfect if you need somewhere quiet to focus. You can book one easily here. Time limits apply, but no worries, you can always grab a spot and get to work! 😎
If you’re going virtual, there are many ways to stay connected with your group! 💻🤝 You can create a chat on platforms like Facebook Messenger 💬, Teams 🖥️, Google Docs 📝, Zoom 🎥, Discord 🎮... and the list goes on! 🔥 It’s all about finding what works best for you and your crew! 🙌📱
Some subjects might have group assessments, so a study group becomes even more important. 🙌 If you're new to working in a group or need a little guidance, Deakin has loads of resources to help you navigate the whole group work thing. Check them out here.
Study groups can make your university life easier, and feel less isolated as an online student.
🗂️✨ 3. Be Organised: Plan Smart, Stress Less! ✅📅
Juggling assignments, deadlines, and life? While this will become the new norm, most of us have been there! Staying organised can make a huge difference. Check out these tips to keep on top of your studies: Deakin Study Resources ✅🎓The Deakin Study Resources has tons of helpful information to keep you on track.
✅You’ll find Lecturer Tips 👩🏫 to learn from their experience and Time Management ⏰ strategies to help you master your schedule.
✅You can access all your unit resources through DeakinSync via Unit Sites 📂and get tips for File Management 🗂️ to keep everything organised and easy to find.
✅There are also Trimester & Weekly Planners 📅 available to download, helping you plan ahead.
✅Additionally, the Assessment Planner 📑 allows you to track your unit assessments. Simply fill in the details, and it generates a detailed plan for you. Plus, it gets emailed directly to you! 📧 Here is the very helpful link. I know it's saved me from the stress of figuring out where to start.
✅Monday is another program that can help keep projects on track and get organised for the week ahead! 📅💪
✅Evaluating information can be tricky, but don’t worry – there are awesome tools to help you out. Start by exploring the Evaluating Information page 📚 here, and try out the Dependability Checklist ✅ to assess the credibility of your resources for assessments. Check it out here and make sure your sources are solid! 👌
✅Deakin University uses Turnitin 🧑💻 to check for any unoriginal material in your work by comparing it to a large database of print and online resources 🌐. Any matching text will appear in an originality report 📑, which you can access directly in your unit under Tools or here.
✅Understanding plagiarism and collusion 🚫 is crucial to ensure your work is original. Be sure to familiarise yourself with Deakin's policy on plagiarism and the disciplinary consequences 📜. Helpful resources on Referencing and Avoiding Plagiarism 📚 are available here, and you can learn more about Academic Integrity 🏅 here.
📖✨ 4. Get Reading: Dive In and Discover! 🌟📚
Students definitely have their own way of learning – some love the feel of a physical textbook 📚, while others are all about the online version 🌐. I totally get the joy of having a stockpile of books in your study 🤭, and I love flipping through them for different subjects too! If you're curious to see if your unit’s textbook is available (or you even need one), check it out here 📖✨.
Some books might also be available at the Deakin Library 📚, which I’ve definitely taken advantage of! 😎 The best part? They’ll even post the books directly to your mailbox 📬, including a reply-paid bag for easy returns (how awesome is that?!)💥. You can find all the info here. Happy reading and borrowing! 😊
If your textbook isn’t available at the library, no worries! You can always buy them online 🛒. Many online stores offer print 📖 and e-book versions 💻, with brand-new or second-hand options 💥. Here are a few popular sites (ones I’ve come across or been told about along the way):
Just remember to double-check that you’ve got the correct edition for your unit 📏. You might also find past students or alumni groups selling their textbooks – totally worth checking out for some awesome deals! 💸🎉
🏠🚗 5. Accommodation & Parking Options: Where Comfort Meets Convenience! 🌟
Looking for on-campus accommodation? 🏠 Deakin's got some amazing options for you! Check them out here and here 🌟. Need something more short-term? Explore the short-stay options ⏳. Prefer living off-campus? No problem! You can use off-campus accommodation finders here 🔑. And if you're interested in a homestay experience, check out the Homestay Network 🏡. Plenty of great ways to get settled into uni in a way that works for you. Happy house hunting! 🏡✨
🚆 Public Transport – Need to get to campus? All the public transport info for your campus is right here 🚍. Don’t forget to have your student card handy – you might score some sweet student discounts! 💸🎓 Don’t have a Student ID Card yet? No worries! You can learn all about it and order your card here 🏷️. Even online students can upload their faces and get a card! 😄💳 If you’re travelling by Train🚉, you can get your Myki card here 🎫.
🚗 Casual Parking On Campus – Vroom vroom... 🚙 Driving to campus? Check out your parking options here 🅿️. Don’t forget to download the O-Park app here 📲 to view the pricing structure! Let’s get moving and park like a pro! ✨
⚡ Electric Vehicle Charging Stations – Got an electric vehicle? (I’d probably be too uncoordinated for one, but it’s still cool! 😅) 🚗⚡ You can charge up at Deakin’s campuses! Just download the Chargefox app 📲, park in an EV space ⚡, and you’re good to go! 🌱🔌🏫🔋
Free Parking for Motorbikes, Scooters & Bicycles🏍️🚲 Riding to campus? Park your motorbike or scooter for FREE in the designated spots! They have specific signage, so you can't miss them, and are usually located near main entrances and easy-to-access spots. There is more info via this link 🅿️ They’ve also got bike racks and monitored bike cages for your bicycle. 🚴♀️✨ Or 🚗 Need to park for the long haul? Check out long-term parking options here 🅿️🚘.
Want to Carpool? – Save some cash and the planet 🌍 by carpooling with others! Find out more here 🚗💚.
🚍 Free Shuttle Bus Service – Traveling between campuses? Hop on the free shuttle bus! 🚌 You can find more info here.
♿ Accessible Parking – If you have a valid permit, display it clearly when parking in accessible bays. If those are full, you can park in Orange or White Bays without needing a Deakin permit! 🟠⚪
Pfft, I’m exhausted! 😴 There are soooo many options! Deakin sure has you covered!! 🌟
🍽️ 6. Budget-Friendly Cooking: Delicious Meals Without the Price Tag! 🥘
Cutting Down Living Costs – University life doesn’t have to drain your wallet! There are plenty of ways to save, especially if you're living on or off-campus (and no, you don’t have to survive on 2-minute noodles alone) 🌱.
🍞 Free Groceries at DUSA Food Pantry – Yup, you read that right! 🛒 You can get FREE groceries on campus at the DUSA Food Pantry! 😲 This term, it’s happening on Wednesday, May 1st, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. 🕚 📝 Don’t forget to register here: DUSA Food Pantry Registration 📅
💸 Need more ways to save? Check out some budget-friendly tips here 🥳.
Don’t forget to share meals you cook and tag @yourDUSA to be featured on our socials 📸✨. Who knows, there may be a new chef in the making! 👨🍳👩🍳
🍔🍕 7. Places to Grab a Bite Around Campus! 🌮🥤
Uni life can get busy, but don’t worry – there’s plenty of tasty food options around campus to keep you fueled for study sessions and social breaks! 😋 From a quick snack or a sit-down meal, you’ve got options to suit every craving. From cafes for that caffeine kick ☕️ to grab-and-go meals for busy days 🏃♂️, you won’t be going hungry! Need to check out the best spots? Take a peek at these links to get the scoop:
📍 Deakin Food Locations: Burwood Waterfront Waurn Ponds Warrnambool
Microwave Hub – Deakin has several places to warm up your meals at the Microwave Hubs Burwood Waterfront Waurn Ponds Warrnambool. 📍 Fuel up and enjoy your uni journey!
💡8. Master Your Money: Plan Your Finances! 💰📊
💰 Need help managing your money? Deakin has amazing services to keep your finances on track 💡. Check out all the smart money management resources here 📈 Want to supercharge your savings? 🚀 Explore high-interest accounts to help you save big 💸.
Happy saving and crushing those goals! 💸🎯✨
💸 Financial Assistance – Struggling financially? Deakin may be able to assist! From interest-free loans to financial counselling, they’re here to help you out. Check out all the services available here 💡.
🎉 Student Discounts – Want to save big? Become a DUSA Member and unlock a ton of discounts and awesome partner perks 🤑. Find out how to join here and check out all the amazing deals here 🛍️.
💖 9. Take Care of YOU! 🌟🧘♀️
Your mental and physical health matters, especially while juggling uni life! 💪 Deakin offers many services to support your well-being – for your body, mind, or even your spirit. 🙏 Check them out here 📲.
Need to book an appointment? You can always visit the Deakin Medical Centre 🏥
💡 Pro Tip: Download the Deakin Wellbeing App 📱 – a 24/7 support buddy in your pocket! It has many tips, tools, and resources to help you maintain your well-being. ✨💙I know having something like this can be a daily reminder to be kind to yourself when exams, lectures, and study seem to be taking over.
🧘♀️ Feeling stressed? Deakin offers Counselling Services that are here to support you through any challenges you might be facing. You can check out more info and book an appointment here: Deakin Counselling Services 💬.
And if you're looking to unwind, Meditation 🧘♂️ can be an awesome way to relax and ease stress. It’s a simple but powerful tool to clear your mind and refocus 💭✨. Perfect for those intense study sessions! 📚🎉 Bonus: Deakin students get 25% off the meditation app! 🙌 Use the code DEAKIN25 at checkout to save! 🤑 Check it out here 💻
10. Grow Your Squad! 🌱🤝
Building your network is key to making the most out of university life! 🌟 From connecting with professors, joining clubs, or attending campus events, it’s all about making meaningful connections! 🤝✨ There are many ways to meet people and build a strong support system – perfect for study buddies, future collabs, or just someone to grab coffee with during a break! ☕📚 And don't forget, you can also expand your network via LinkedIn 🌐, events, and online study groups. Get ready to meet your future crew! 🚀🎉 NetworkLikeAPro & Peer Mentoring
Join DUSA, and if you’re feeling extra cool, become a GOLD member and rock that awesome hoodie! 😎🧥
✨🎓
🌟💙 11. Accessibility & Support for Students with a Disability ✨
If you have specific needs or require assistance, Deakin will support you! 🌟 Accessing adaptive technologies or getting help with library resources, Deakin ensures you’ve got all the tools you need to thrive! 📚✨ For more info on services for students with disabilities, check out: Deakin Library - People with a Disability 🌟
💪 12. Get Fit, Have Fun! Join a Gym at Deakin 🏋️♀️
💪After a long day of lectures and trying to get my head around new content, going to the gym makes me feel so much better 🏅. If you’re hitting the fitness centre 🏋️♂️, going for a run 🏃♀️, joining group fitness classes 🧘♀️, or exploring new sports 🏀, DeakinACTIVE has got everything you need to smash your fitness goals! 🎯And the best part? Their excellent facilities are open to Deakin students AND the local community 🏠. Jump on to this website to find out all about DeakinACTIVE. 🚀Plus - join DUSA and get a discount.
🚀 13. Your Career Starts Here! 🌟
Before you know it, you’ll be graduating and ready to take on the world, putting that hard-earned degree to work! 💪 Deakin Talent is a great resource that helps support Deakin students and graduates in reaching their career goals. 🔥 For those looking for internships, job opportunities, or career advice, Deakin Talent’s got your back! 👔 Check out all the amazing resources and support available to help you build your dream career. Let's get you ready to shine! ✨👩💼👨💼
🌟 Best of Luck on Your University Journey 🚀🎓
Mastering university life at Deakin is all about finding the perfect balance ⚖️, building meaningful connections 🤝, and taking full advantage of the amazing resources available 📚✨. If you're a current student or just starting your exciting journey 🎓, it's all about refining your skills, staying organised 🗂️, asking for help when needed 🙋♀️, and prioritising self-care 💆♂️.
Get familiar with theDeakin website and the awesome resources available through CloudDeakin 🌐. From study tips 📖, campus activities 🎉, and all the support services you need, everything is right at your fingertips 📱. With the right strategies, you’ll be able to make the most of your time at Deakin, both academically and personally 🌟. Best of luck on your uni journey – you’ve got this! 💪
