The display of stories, pictures and other paraphernalia will be on show to the public in the Panizzia Room of UOW Library until September 4, with featured events each week beginning with a panel of alumni discussing their experiences on Friday.

Former UOW vice-chancellor Gerard Sutton said the exhibit showcased "the heart that drives the Illawarra economy".

The collection of stories and pictures range from the change in physical size of the institution to protests, music and fashion, and even the transport people used to get there.

Exhibition co-ordinator Rebecca Daly said it also highlighted the importance of uni life to a student's development and how it went far beyond simply obtaining an education.

"The social networks become important and they may take [students] throughout the rest of their career," she said.

"I have a lot [of favourite stories], but I like the story that in the 1970s the UniBar emerged. If we are to look at one staple of student life from the last 40 years it's probably the UniBar.

"It's always been there, and it's always been that focus of student social life. People always converge on that place - it's the social centre - we've got a giant image of the bar and [you can see] things don't change that much over time."

Trang Dao spoke at the launch and reflected on her time as an international student from Vietnam, studying a Bachelor of Commerce and working as a PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) leader since 2013.

"This exhibition gives people that chance to have a look at what has passed and reflect on the changes that have occurred, and it's really cool to see the photos of what UOW was like 20 or 30 years ago," she said.