WHO HAS APPLIED?
WHO HAS APPLIED?
My name is Anuhasni (but I go by either Anu or Ann, whichever is preferred), and I am a 3rd year student here at Monash studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences. I am honoured to have been allowed to apply for my chosen ResComm executive role. I enjoy playing volleyball with the social team here at Monash and practising various hobbies to improve certain valuable core skills. An example of this would be me practising playing the piano to improve my hand-eye coordination and roller-skating around my hall to improve my balance.
I enjoy engaging with events and programs run by the residential community and the university as a whole, as it has aided me in coming out of my shell. Joining my fellow residents in different events here at the halls has brought me close to many different residents, providing me with the opportunity to engage in different cultures as well as learn from other people's lives and perspectives. It has also allowed me to make long-term friendships that will last for the rest of my degree and possibly beyond. This encourages me to help foster the growth and engagement of this community,
I am passionate about environmental challenges and uncovering how they affect individuals and their daily lives. To understand said issues, I've joined countless programs and societies here on campus, such as the Global Immersion Guarantee and Monash SEED. Engaging in these endeavours has helped me focus on the topics that are the most prevalent to me and many others.
As a student living in the residential community, I have been very active in ensuring that the halls are a place of belonging for all. Some ways I've done that have been being a member of my hall society and the residential community previously. Previously, in 2024, as a creative officer for RESCOMM, I helped plan events, design promotional material and discuss initiatives to improve the well-being of students in the halls. A major event I helped plan was the 2024 Vampire Cup, which encouraged students to donate blood and engage with the local community's well-being. Furthermore, in 2025, as a marketing executive for my hall society, I helped plan and design promotional materials to engage students.
By participating in the Residential Committee, I aspire to build a feeling of community, improve residents' quality of life, and support residents through any challenges that arise within said community. I hope to facilitate and organise community activities, enabling engagement and communication between residents, lobbying for the needs of students, and creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere for all residents.
I will actively engage in committee meetings, volunteer to organise events and initiatives, and attentively address residents' concerns while collaborating with fellow committee members to enact positive changes within the community. Leveraging my communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills, I aim to facilitate productive discussions and effectively tackle community challenges. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the development of a vibrant and supportive community where all residents feel valued and empowered.
I am a dedicated resident here at my hall with a strong commitment to community engagement and leadership, making me well-suited for the role of president within the Residents' Committee. Through the peer mentoring program and student leadership program run by the university, and previously being involved in RESCOMM, I've honed my skills in coordinating events, managing timelines, advocating for residents' interests, and advertising the previously stated events to the general student body. My experience helps me demonstrate the positive impact I could foster in the residential community through effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. I am committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of each role to contribute to the Residents' Committee's greater goals.
As stated previously my dedication to community engagement and leadership, coupled with my passion for creating positive change, makes me a strong candidate for roles within the Residents' Committee. My experiences in mentoring, volunteering, and advocating for social impact align closely with the responsibilities of these positions, and I am committed to leveraging my skills to contribute meaningfully to the community and helping foster a safe and friendly community for all to enjoy. I am inspired by the potential for individuals and communities to drive positive change, and I am eager to continue making a difference in these roles.
Hey! My name is Taylen! I'm in my second year of a double degree in primary education and science! I grew up on a farm out in South Gippsland just over two hours from Melbourne!! Outside of study, I like to read, drink unhealthy amounts of coffee, go to YoChi, and then burn off said YoChi by going for morning runs! While I miss the countryside (I left behind my beautiful ten-year-old labrador, Banjo!), nothing beats the friendships that I’ve made in the two years I’ve lived on res, and I wouldn’t change any of it for the world!
This year, I had the privilege of being an RA at Deakin Hall. Not only did this allow me to gain an intimate understanding of the way that the halls (specifically those in the residential village) work in terms of residential support and care, but it also gave me the opportunity to completely fall in love with living on campus. By becoming the first point of contact to many residents, I’ve learned to handle both administrative and social affairs, and have developed a close relationship with people who are able make change in the hall. The RA position has not only given me experience in planning events and community leadership. Advocating for my residents is something very important to me, and this is something that I would like to extend to the wider community.
Entering my third year at Deakin Hall, I’ve seen the residential community go through multiple shifts in the past nineteen months. One of those many things is the way that hall identity is created and maintained, as well as the unity between halls. Hall segregation is something that has steadily been getting worse over the past year, and creates an environment where residents are only exposed to friendships from those who live near to them. Furthermore, one of the main appeals of living on campus is the way that community is shaped through the hall dynamic. This becomes a point of pride for residents, enhancing their experience and love for their ‘second home’. If elected, I plan on working closely with the RAs of each hall to bring this spirit back to life, as well as increase the opportunities for interhall friendships.
I will also be advocating for the Residential Support Coordinators to have a more active role in the community, rather than purely administrative work. While RAs are the first point of contact, since ResLife are spread thin managing large numbers of students, it’s impossible for them to have personal relationships with more than a few residents. By allocating more resources to assist them with their workload, they will be able to spend more time getting to know the residents. This will take some of the strain off them, as well as reduce the workload the RAs are handling, due to them being expected to handle all issues due to their close relationship with people in the hall.
I will also be working with MRS to come up with a permanent solution to food theft within each hall, as well as introduce measures to reduce the effects of cost of living on residents.
Having lived on campus when the previous residential model existed, wherein there were three live-in staff at each hall, I’ve experienced the benefits and shortcomings of both systems. I’m a firm believer in creating a system that incorporates efficiency and sustainability, while still maintaining the hall spirit that residents have loved for decades. I’m incredibly passionate about giving each person the experience that I was privileged to have, fostering a community that is like family. Furthermore, working 45hr weeks in the summer to pay for cost of living throughout the year, I know exactly what it’s like to try and make ends meet week after week. This understanding means that I will be able create initiatives where they are actually needed, rather than work off tokenistic assumptions about the occasional free breakfast in o-week.
Growing up in a small town has instilled within me valuable life skills about collaboration, resilience, and advocation for change. These have all contributed to a sense of responsibility that has stayed with me for my whole life. I’m not afraid to advocate for change, nor stand up for those that are unable to do it themselves.
I’m Arshia, an international student studying in Monash University, currently residing in Campbell Hall. For me, everything begins with people and the problems that we solve together. This idea has influenced my leadership and service experiences.
Back in school, I was the Discipline Captain and in charge of upholding a safe and disciplined learning environment for students, settling disputes and fostering a closer bond between the students. I have also served as the Under Secretary General of the Tech & Graphics Department at my school’s leadership conclave, where I managed a team that handled logistics and visuals of events and led by example.
Outside school, I have served as the Joint Secretary of the Rotaract Club in my home country, where I guided new rotaractors and organised various community oriented events. These experiences have improved my coordination, event planning and mentoring abilities with inclusivity and empathy at their center.
I have continued this enthusiasm of mine even after joining Monash. I’m a registered volunteer at the Australian Red Cross within the university and I have also volunteered at the NetworkED- Careers and Industry Night, alongside being a part of the Campus Ambassador Network. I’m an upcoming yoga instructor volunteer at MSA for the coming semester. All these experiences have given me a chance with a diverse group of people, learn about their viewpoints and be a part of caring communities.
Since, I’m an international student, so I understand how crucial it is to have a sense of belonging within the residential community. By joining the Residents’ Committee, I wanted to establish an environment where everyone, not just Campbell Hall residents, but all the residents living in different halls feel connected, supported and welcomed.
I have continuously stepped into leadership roles throughout my academic and extracurricular journey, which required me to help people often by listening, encouraging and taking action. Being my school’s Discipline Captain was one of the most defining experiences of my life. This position was not just about following laws, but also about serving as a reliable source for my peers. I collaborated with my teachers to foster a polite and safe environment for students and provided support in stressful times. I always approached this position with empathy and a desire to help others whether it related to solving disputes or advocating the needs of the students.
I also made another significant contribution by serving as the Under Secretary of Tech and Graphics department at my school’s leadership conclave. During this event, I oversaw a team that lacked motivation and I decided to lead by example. The task for my team was to design the social media posts and other visuals for the event. Managing different viewpoints in a hectic setting and limited time were some of the challenges that we faced. I helped my team members use softwares like Canva effectively and motivated them to participate and give their best. At the end, it was a success, which demonstrated that the power of teamwork can turn obstacles into success.
Additionally, I was the Joint Secretary of the Rotaract Club, where u assisted in organising service projects, mentored new members and made sure that everyone feels belonged. As many people joined the club for the first time, so I made their first club experiences warm and significant by engaging everyone into activities.
I have continued my voluntary work with the Australian Red Cross at Monash University campus and also served as a volunteer at the NetwrokED - Careers and Industry Night for undergraduate students where I managed the registration desk, helped in organising Resume and LinkedIn workshops and even collaborated with the Industry partners. I have learned how to collaborate well in diverse environments and remain calm under stressful situations whether it is helping in organising the events or engaging with people.
I have learned that leadership is about establishing support, helping people and taking action when required, from each role that I stepped in. I would like to apply the same in the Residents’ Committee, working with team members and making sure that everyone feels appreciated and heard.
As a part of the Residents’ Committee, I hope to contribute to the development of a friendly and inclusive community for all the residents. My leadership experiences, as well as my personal experiences, shape my goals for the committee. Being an international student, I’m aware of how difficult it is to relocate to a different place and start from scratch. Knowing this, I’m passionate about making an environment where everyone feels belonged regardless of their background or personality.
I hope to promote real connections among residents and want to assist in planning a variety of events that go beyond entertainment, like cultural evenings, wellness programs and communal dinners. I have planned various events in my school and via Rotaract, so I know how to handle the logistics and creative aspects of the events. Additionally, I think that the core of our committee should be the well-being of the residents. Having previously served as a mentor for the new members joining the Rotaract club, I would like to introduce peer-led events, where residents feel heard and supported.
Also, I would like to honour the diversity of the Residential Committee by inviting residents to join and actively participate in cultural activities and share their unique skills.
In addition to supporting the President and taking the lead in their absence, as Vice President, I will actively contribute to achieving the goals and objectives of the Residents’ Committee. With my background in teamwork, leadership and problem-solving, I’m prepared to put these skills to work for creating an inclusive community.
I think I’m an ideal candidate for the position of Vice President as I offer a special combination of leadership experience and a strong dedication to community building. As my school’s Discipline captain, I have experience in settling disputes amongst peers and helping students to overcome challenges by creating an inclusive atmosphere. In my roles as the USG of Tech and Graphics Department and Joint Secretary of the Rotaract Club, I have managed teams and mentored new members which helped me to understand better what it means to lead with purpose and care.
I have carried on my journey after coming to Monash which shows my consistency with my passion. I’m working as a volunteer with the Australian Red Cross and have volunteered at NetwrokED- Careers and Industry night. I’m also an upcoming Yoga instructor volunteer at MSA for the coming semester. All this has helped me to develop myself personally and professionally in all terms.
I’m a current resident at Campbell Hall and know a lot of international students. I can even relate to the challenges of international students. So, I feel committed to make the community feel more like home by organising events for all the residents.
My constant desire to lead with compassion and initiative is what makes me stand out. I love to take initiative, lead and help others and contribute to the development of innovative ideas and solutions. I will bring the same effort and enthusiasm to our Residents’ Committee in my role as Vice President.
Yes, I want to emphasise that for me, being Vice President is not just about holding a position but to serve the interests of the Residents’ committee. I have always been drawn to leadership, not just in terms of title but also in my actions. I have consistently stepped into leadership roles from early childhood to my contribution at Monash. My focus has always been on the welfare of people around me, whether as a volunteer, a mentor or a school leader.
As an international student who has experienced adjustment in a new environment, I also contribute a global perspective. Furthermore, I also bring excellent teamwork abilities as I have worked with diverse teams at Monash, the Rotaract Club and my school. I understand how to balance the responsibilities and bring in the best in others around me. If elected as Vice President, I would consider my duty not just to the President, but also the entire Residents’ Committee and even the residents.
I have a strong commitment to this position and I’m excited to give back to the community by being a part of the Residents’ Committee.
I am currently a first year Politics, Philosophy and Economics student with a passion for diplomacy and advocacy. Outside of study, I love baking, hiking , and spending time with family and friends. Having lived on campus this year I have found the experience to contribute so greatly to my personal growth.
Community and connection are core values for me. I enjoy working with people who bring different perspectives and experiences, and I’m motivated by the idea of contributing to spaces where others feel supported to share their voices. Being from a small town and now a residential community where people from all backgrounds connect, I see how community is fundamental to individual and group successes.
Having held various leadership roles in education and work environments, I have had extensive experience working in teams towards a common goal, collaborating with individuals from a multitude of backgrounds. I have developed strong communication and interpersonal skills through group projects, part-time work, and mentoring opportunities. I understand the need to listen to others and include different perspectives to build inclusive relationships and community.
I believe the most effective leaders are approachable, proactive, and committed to fostering inclusivity, and I strive to embody these qualities in a role that requires voicing the concerns of others and supporting residents. Using these values during my time as a prefect in Year 12, I worked to advocate for students’ voices and lead meaningful change within my college community. An example of this was pushing for stronger mental health support. By creating spaces where students felt comfortable sharing their worries, we not only improved access to support services but also built a stronger sense of trust and community. What stood out to me in this process was that leadership didn’t mean having all the answers or being the only one in charge; it meant listening carefully, representing others honestly, and working collaboratively to make small but important improvements benefiting the community around me.
Since leaving school, I’ve continued to build those skills through my work in hospitality and event planning. Working in fast-paced, people-focused environments has strengthened my ability to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflicts quickly, and coordinate with others to deliver great experiences. In event planning, I’ve learned the importance of attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and collaboration across different teams to achieve a shared outcome.
Strengthening advocacy within the residential community. Representation is at the heart of good leadership, and I believe residents should always feel confident that their concerns and ideas are being heard. Working to improve communication between residents and the Committee through approachable feedback channels, regular check-ins, and transparent decision-making. I want every student to know that their perspective matters. My previous experience as a prefect taught me how powerful it can be when people feel their voices lead to tangible change.
Fostering inclusion and belonging is another goal I aim to bring to the role. University residences are diverse, vibrant spaces, and that diversity should be celebrated. I would like to help create initiatives that encourage residents to share their cultures, ideas, and interests, whether through themed events, student-led discussions, or collaborations with campus groups. Having worked in hospitality and event planning, I know how to create welcoming and engaging experiences that bring people together and strengthen community bonds.
Through collaboration, creativity, and compassion, I hope to help build a culture where advocacy, inclusion, and fun residence in the personal and academic success of residents.
I believe I am a strong candidate for the role of Vice President because I bring both experience and enthusiasm for leadership, alongside a genuine commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and engaging community. I understand that effective leadership is not about having all the answers, but about working collaboratively, listening to others, and helping people reach their full potential.
My leadership journey began during high school, where I served as a prefect and helped shape initiatives that promoted student wellbeing and inclusion. Through this role, I learned how to represent the voices of others, communicate openly with staff and peers, and take initiative in areas where improvement was needed. These experiences helped me develop confidence in guiding others while remaining approachable and empathetic, qualities I believe are central to the Vice President’s role.
I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the student experience. I want to help create a community where residents feel connected, supported, and empowered to get involved. While I bring energy, initiative, and experience to the role, I’m also eager to learn from others and collaborate to make the residential community the best it can be.
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Currently, I am a second-year engineering student majoring in electrical. Although I am an engineering student, I have a burning love for physics. Physics contains the law that governs our universe, from the scale of the immensely gigantic to the uncannily microscopic. To understand how our complex universe behaves, I have fallen for it. That is why I am part of the Monash SPAM(Society of Physics, Astrophysics and Mathematics) Club committee as an event coordinator. Furthermore, I am an international student from Malaysia, and I have been staying in Campbell Hall for almost a year now. As a typical Malaysian, my favourite sport is badminton, and I play with my friends at least twice a week. On top of that, I am also a fervent pool player, and occasionally, you could spot me in the games room playing pool. As some of my friends would mention, I am also a passionate Swiftie who thrives in her symphony of songs.
Currently, I am still in the 2025 Campbell Hall committee and in the past, I have contributed much to bring out the best for the community. For example, during the last semester, I've hosted a game night styled after Steve Harvey's Family Feud. It was quite an exciting experience, and I have contributed much to the success of the event. For example, I have created the questions for the game nights, as well as being a host for the event. In the end, everyone enjoyed the event. Furthermore, I have also assisted with food events like last semester's Decorate Your Cookie event, where I helped to bake the cookies for the community to decorate.
One of my goals and aspirations for the Residents' Committee is to provide the community with a fun and engaging experience living in Campbell Hall. I want to hear people saying that Campbell Hall is the best student on-campus accommodation at Monash University Clayton Campus. Besides that, I want the community to be more social and engaging instead of locking themself in their own room (I am speaking from experience and trust me, it sucks). On top of that, I want students to be comfortable living in Campbell Hall and feel that their money spent on it is worth it.
To achieve those ambitious goals that I have set out, I plan to organise vibrant events catered to the community. Not only will these be fun events, but also be an opportunity for the community to socialise with their hallmates. For example, we can have game nights and even karaoke sessions to let the community enjoy after a long day at class. No doubt, this can make their day. On top of that, ordering snacks and drinks for the event can also attract the attention of the community to join the events. Moreover, hosting sports events and competitions can also make the community more sportive and also create an opportunity for students to try out new sports. Also, it would be useless to host events without promoting them. Therefore, I would make sure that all events are passionately promoted in the hall group as well as in the form of posters in the hall.
One of my traits that makes me perfect for this job is that I take responsibility seriously. I would commit to any roles and tasks given, and I would strive to achieve the best result. Besides that, time management is crucial in my role, and I am good at navigating and arranging my schedules for maximum efficiency (one of the reasons why I am wired to be an engineer XD ). Besides that, I am a hardworking and dedicated person. Unless it's an emergency, I would attend every meeting to discuss the decision made in the committee.
As aforementioned, I have been living in Campbell Hall for quite some time now, and I would say that I am rather familiar with the hall by now. I believe this would put me at an advantage since the people on the committee have to have at least some knowledge about the hall itself. Personally, I think that it would be hard to help the community without knowing the environment. To top it off, I am still currently on the 2025 committee. This means that I have experience in the field and I am comfortable and familiar with the structure of the committee. Therefore, I can operate my task smoothly and confidently with minimum error.
There's not much I want to add, but I am very excited about this position, and I hope to be chosen as part of the committee. I would definitely give it my all to help out the team. Also, it would be a perfect opportunity to train my leadership skills and sharpen my social skills as well.
Hey! My name is Taylen! I'm in my second year of a double degree in primary education and science! I grew up on a farm out in South Gippsland just over two hours from Melbourne!! Outside of study, I like to read, drink unhealthy amounts of coffee, go to YoChi, and then burn off said YoChi by going for morning runs! While I miss the countryside (I left behind my beautiful ten-year-old labrador, Banjo!), nothing beats the friendships that I’ve made in the two years I’ve lived on res, and I wouldn’t change any of it for the world!
This year, I had the privilege of being an RA at Deakin Hall. Not only did this allow me to gain an intimate understanding of the way that the halls (specifically those in the residential village) work in terms of residential support and care, but it also gave me the opportunity to completely fall in love with living on campus. By becoming the first point of contact to many residents, I’ve learned to handle both administrative and social affairs, and have developed a close relationship with people who are able make change in the hall. The RA position has not only given me experience in planning events and community leadership. Advocating for my residents is something very important to me, and this is something that I would like to extend to the wider community.
Entering my third year at Deakin Hall, I’ve seen the residential community go through multiple shifts in the past nineteen months. One of those many things is the way that hall identity is created and maintained, as well as the unity between halls. Hall segregation is something that has steadily been getting worse over the past year, and creates an environment where residents are only exposed to friendships from those who live near to them. Furthermore, one of the main appeals of living on campus is the way that community is shaped through the hall dynamic. This becomes a point of pride for residents, enhancing their experience and love for their ‘second home’. If elected, I plan on working closely with the RAs of each hall to bring this spirit back to life, as well as increase the opportunities for interhall friendships.
I will also be advocating for the Residential Support Coordinators to have a more active role in the community, rather than purely administrative work. While RAs are the first point of contact, since ResLife are spread thin managing large numbers of students, it’s impossible for them to have personal relationships with more than a few residents. By allocating more resources to assist them with their workload, they will be able to spend more time getting to know the residents. This will take some of the strain off them, as well as reduce the workload the RAs are handling, due to them being expected to handle all issues due to their close relationship with people in the hall.
I will also be working with MRS to come up with a permanent solution to food theft within each hall, as well as introduce measures to reduce the effects of cost of living on residents.
Having lived on campus when the previous residential model existed, wherein there were three live-in staff at each hall, I’ve experienced the benefits and shortcomings of both systems. I’m a firm believer in creating a system that incorporates efficiency and sustainability, while still maintaining the hall spirit that residents have loved for decades. I’m incredibly passionate about giving each person the experience that I was privileged to have, fostering a community that is like family. Furthermore, working 45hr weeks in the summer to pay for cost of living throughout the year, I know exactly what it’s like to try and make ends meet week after week. This understanding means that I will be able create initiatives where they are actually needed, rather than work off tokenistic assumptions about the occasional free breakfast in o-week.
Growing up in a small town has instilled within me valuable life skills about collaboration, resilience, and advocation for change. These have all contributed to a sense of responsibility that has stayed with me for my whole life. I’m not afraid to advocate for change, nor stand up for those that are unable to do it themselves.
I am currently a first year Politics, Philosophy and Economics student with a passion for diplomacy and advocacy. Outside of study, I love baking, hiking , and spending time with family and friends. Having lived on campus this year I have found the experience to contribute so greatly to my personal growth.
Community and connection are core values for me. I enjoy working with people who bring different perspectives and experiences, and I’m motivated by the idea of contributing to spaces where others feel supported to share their voices. Being from a small town and now a residential community where people from all backgrounds connect, I see how community is fundamental to individual and group successes.
Having held various leadership roles in education and work environments, I have had extensive experience working in teams towards a common goal, collaborating with individuals from a multitude of backgrounds. I have developed strong communication and interpersonal skills through group projects, part-time work, and mentoring opportunities. I understand the need to listen to others and include different perspectives to build inclusive relationships and community.
I believe the most effective leaders are approachable, proactive, and committed to fostering inclusivity, and I strive to embody these qualities in a role that requires voicing the concerns of others and supporting residents. Using these values during my time as a prefect in Year 12, I worked to advocate for students’ voices and lead meaningful change within my college community. An example of this was pushing for stronger mental health support. By creating spaces where students felt comfortable sharing their worries, we not only improved access to support services but also built a stronger sense of trust and community. What stood out to me in this process was that leadership didn’t mean having all the answers or being the only one in charge; it meant listening carefully, representing others honestly, and working collaboratively to make small but important improvements benefiting the community around me.
Since leaving school, I’ve continued to build those skills through my work in hospitality and event planning. Working in fast-paced, people-focused environments has strengthened my ability to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflicts quickly, and coordinate with others to deliver great experiences. In event planning, I’ve learned the importance of attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and collaboration across different teams to achieve a shared outcome.
Strengthening advocacy within the residential community. Representation is at the heart of good leadership, and I believe residents should always feel confident that their concerns and ideas are being heard. Working to improve communication between residents and the Committee through approachable feedback channels, regular check-ins, and transparent decision-making. I want every student to know that their perspective matters. My previous experience as a prefect taught me how powerful it can be when people feel their voices lead to tangible change.
Fostering inclusion and belonging is another goal I aim to bring to the role. University residences are diverse, vibrant spaces, and that diversity should be celebrated. I would like to help create initiatives that encourage residents to share their cultures, ideas, and interests, whether through themed events, student-led discussions, or collaborations with campus groups. Having worked in hospitality and event planning, I know how to create welcoming and engaging experiences that bring people together and strengthen community bonds.
Through collaboration, creativity, and compassion, I hope to help build a culture where advocacy, inclusion, and fun residence in the personal and academic success of residents.
I believe I would be a good candidate for the role of creative officer as through my previous roles and experiences I have developed practical skills in organising and delivering creative projects under tight timelines and varied conditions. I’ve planned events that balance logistical efficiency with engaging experiences, learning how to collaborate with diverse teams, adapt to unexpected challenges, and ensure that the outcomes reflect the needs and interests of the audience. These experiences have taught me how creativity is most impactful when paired with organisation, communication, and attention to detail.
Additionally, I bring experience in advocacy and representation, having served as a prefect in high school. Leading initiatives that amplified student voices, encouraged participation, and fostered community engagement. I understand the importance of designing events, campaigns, and activities that are inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the interests of the people involved.
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Hey! My name is Taylen! I'm in my second year of a double degree in primary education and science! I grew up on a farm out in South Gippsland just over two hours from Melbourne!! Outside of study, I like to read, drink unhealthy amounts of coffee, go to YoChi, and then burn off said YoChi by going for morning runs! While I miss the countryside (I left behind my beautiful ten-year-old labrador, Banjo!), nothing beats the friendships that I’ve made in the two years I’ve lived on res, and I wouldn’t change any of it for the world!
This year, I had the privilege of being an RA at Deakin Hall. Not only did this allow me to gain an intimate understanding of the way that the halls (specifically those in the residential village) work in terms of residential support and care, but it also gave me the opportunity to completely fall in love with living on campus. By becoming the first point of contact to many residents, I’ve learned to handle both administrative and social affairs, and have developed a close relationship with people who are able make change in the hall. The RA position has not only given me experience in planning events and community leadership. Advocating for my residents is something very important to me, and this is something that I would like to extend to the wider community.
Entering my third year at Deakin Hall, I’ve seen the residential community go through multiple shifts in the past nineteen months. One of those many things is the way that hall identity is created and maintained, as well as the unity between halls. Hall segregation is something that has steadily been getting worse over the past year, and creates an environment where residents are only exposed to friendships from those who live near to them. Furthermore, one of the main appeals of living on campus is the way that community is shaped through the hall dynamic. This becomes a point of pride for residents, enhancing their experience and love for their ‘second home’. If elected, I plan on working closely with the RAs of each hall to bring this spirit back to life, as well as increase the opportunities for interhall friendships.
I will also be advocating for the Residential Support Coordinators to have a more active role in the community, rather than purely administrative work. While RAs are the first point of contact, since ResLife are spread thin managing large numbers of students, it’s impossible for them to have personal relationships with more than a few residents. By allocating more resources to assist them with their workload, they will be able to spend more time getting to know the residents. This will take some of the strain off them, as well as reduce the workload the RAs are handling, due to them being expected to handle all issues due to their close relationship with people in the hall.
I will also be working with MRS to come up with a permanent solution to food theft within each hall, as well as introduce measures to reduce the effects of cost of living on residents.
Having lived on campus when the previous residential model existed, wherein there were three live-in staff at each hall, I’ve experienced the benefits and shortcomings of both systems. I’m a firm believer in creating a system that incorporates efficiency and sustainability, while still maintaining the hall spirit that residents have loved for decades. I’m incredibly passionate about giving each person the experience that I was privileged to have, fostering a community that is like family. Furthermore, working 45hr weeks in the summer to pay for cost of living throughout the year, I know exactly what it’s like to try and make ends meet week after week. This understanding means that I will be able create initiatives where they are actually needed, rather than work off tokenistic assumptions about the occasional free breakfast in o-week.
Growing up in a small town has instilled within me valuable life skills about collaboration, resilience, and advocation for change. These have all contributed to a sense of responsibility that has stayed with me for my whole life. I’m not afraid to advocate for change, nor stand up for those that are unable to do it themselves.
I am currently a first year Politics, Philosophy and Economics student with a passion for diplomacy and advocacy. Outside of study, I love baking, hiking , and spending time with family and friends. Having lived on campus this year I have found the experience to contribute so greatly to my personal growth.
Community and connection are core values for me. I enjoy working with people who bring different perspectives and experiences, and I’m motivated by the idea of contributing to spaces where others feel supported to share their voices. Being from a small town and now a residential community where people from all backgrounds connect, I see how community is fundamental to individual and group successes.
"Having held various leadership roles in education and work environments, I have had extensive experience working in teams towards a common goal, collaborating with individuals from a multitude of backgrounds. I have developed strong communication and interpersonal skills through group projects, part-time work, and mentoring opportunities. I understand the need to listen to others and include different perspectives to build inclusive relationships and community.
I believe the most effective leaders are approachable, proactive, and committed to fostering inclusivity, and I strive to embody these qualities in a role that requires voicing the concerns of others and supporting residents. Using these values during my time as a prefect in Year 12, I worked to advocate for students’ voices and lead meaningful change within my college community. An example of this was pushing for stronger mental health support. By creating spaces where students felt comfortable sharing their worries, we not only improved access to support services but also built a stronger sense of trust and community. What stood out to me in this process was that leadership didn’t mean having all the answers or being the only one in charge; it meant listening carefully, representing others honestly, and working collaboratively to make small but important improvements benefiting the community around me.
Since leaving school, I’ve continued to build those skills through my work in hospitality and event planning. Working in fast-paced, people-focused environments has strengthened my ability to stay calm under pressure, resolve conflicts quickly, and coordinate with others to deliver great experiences. In event planning, I’ve learned the importance of attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and collaboration across different teams to achieve a shared outcome."
Strengthening advocacy within the residential community. Representation is at the heart of good leadership, and I believe residents should always feel confident that their concerns and ideas are being heard. Working to improve communication between residents and the Committee through approachable feedback channels, regular check-ins, and transparent decision-making. I want every student to know that their perspective matters. My previous experience as a prefect taught me how powerful it can be when people feel their voices lead to tangible change.
Fostering inclusion and belonging is another goal I aim to bring to the role. University residences are diverse, vibrant spaces, and that diversity should be celebrated. I would like to help create initiatives that encourage residents to share their cultures, ideas, and interests, whether through themed events, student-led discussions, or collaborations with campus groups. Having worked in hospitality and event planning, I know how to create welcoming and engaging experiences that bring people together and strengthen community bonds.
Through collaboration, creativity, and compassion, I hope to help build a culture where advocacy, inclusion, and fun residence in the personal and academic success of residents.
I believe I am the best candidate for the role of Function Officer because I bring both practical experience and a passion for creating engaging, well-organised events that bring communities together. I enjoy planning and coordinating activities that are inclusive, fun, and memorable, while also ensuring that they run smoothly and meet the needs of all participants
Through my work in hospitality and event planning, I have developed strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities under pressure. I have experience coordinating events from concept to execution, including managing logistics, liaising with teams, and problem-solving when unexpected challenges arise. These experiences have taught me the importance of planning, communication, and flexibility.
I actively seek input from those around me, exploring new and exciting event formats, and ensure that every function fosters connection, excitement, and belonging. My goal is to make each event not just something to attend, but something to remember and that is a memorable part of the on campus experience.
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