Hannah McManus is among the first intake to the new Kooloobong Village and a student "well-being" leader. Picture: ORLANDO CHIODO
The University of Wollongong's newest accommodation building welcomed its first group of residents yesterday, as part of the long-awaited Kooloobong Village construction.
The building will house 200 students, both domestic and international, who will move in over the weekend.
The building is also set to be UOW's world-first "positive residence", using the science of positive psychology to maintain the mental and physical well-being of its residents.
MORE: UOW's positive residence first of its kind
Located next to the university, it is the first of two new accommodation buildings on the site to open.
Director of accommodation services Nigel Pennington said building the village had injected $42 million into the local economy and supported more than 100 jobs.
"We are excited to be welcoming these students, as their arrival represents the start of a new and vibrant hub on campus at UOW," he said.
UOW student Hannah McManus was among residents moving in yesterday.
She said her new home exceeded her expectations.
"I love it, I think it's incredible - I knew it was going to be nice but this is really great," she said.
Ms McManus, who previously lived at UOW's International House, said she chose the new Kooloobong Village for the social opportunities and independent living it offered.
She is also one of 14 student leaders on campus who will lead well-being programs for residents.
"We've been trained in both physical and mental health and first aid, so we can spot the signs for somebody suffering from depression or anxiety and offer them help," she said.
Residents can opt for fully independent studios or four-bedroom apartments and will have access to facilities including games rooms, outdoor cooking facilities and a music room.
Stage two is due to be completed by July, in time for the start of spring session at UOW.