USASA Student Board 2019

The USASA Board, made up of 13 elected UniSA students, is the peak decision-making committee at USASA. The student board is passionate about representing the students of UniSA.

The Board has an overarching responsibility to manage the conduct of USASA's business and affairs. It is also responsible for the management and control of USASA’s funds and property.

Click on a student rep’s image to view their contact details and profile to learn more.

Student Representative Blog

To find out what our student reps have been up to, visit the student rep blog at usasaboard.wordpress.com

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Student Representative Profiles

What are you studying?
Bachelor of Aviation Management
 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I first got involved last year after seeing all the work and effort that Jordan Mumford put into being representative at Mawson Lakes throughout made me want to continue on his legacy and encourage more people in our cohort to get more involved in university activities and issues. Now after a year of being on the board as Mawson Lakes rep I am grateful to be next year’s Student President and continue with the good work achieved in 2018 and continue supporting the student cohort to the best of my abilities going forward.
 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I wish to see more student interaction and communication between different cohorts, clubs, and campuses. As well as improving the overall student experience with financial support, academic support, counselling services, and campus culture through more events, and activations on all campuses.
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Start your assignments before the final week, and organise time with your lecturer to look over a draft copy to ensure you’re on the right track.

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Elephant.

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens followed by coffee at Stirling Market Café.

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Bird of Paradise .

Which TV character are you most like and why?
According to Adan Richards, I’m Claire Underwood (House of Cards)

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
My dream has always been to become a professional dancer if I had the time and means.
 

View Grace's board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
Masters of IT (Enterprise Management)
 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I’ve always had a passion for it. I’ve been the Head Girl for my college in Hyderabad, India and wanted to gain similar experience in UniSA. Also, I was inspired by the passion and dedication of the previous representatives.  
 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I would want to work closely with the 2019 board to focus on student engagement and wellbeing. Also, I’d focus on the achievements of the previous board and work to build on it. 
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Plan your assignments beforehand, take breaks when you need them the most. Learn and explore from the extracurricular activities provided by the University such as Student Clubs, Uni events, volunteering opportunities, workshops.
 

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Wolves!! I consider them to be my spirit animal. They know how to lead, protect and care for one another.


Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Ah! Adelaide is so beautiful. But if I had to choose, I have 3 places which top my list of favourite places to go in Adelaide.  First is Henley Beach; Sunsets at Henley are breathtaking, and I get to pet dogs too. Beaches and dogs, two things I can never get enough of! Second is Thorndon Park; Grab a book and enjoy the tranquillity of mother nature’s work around. Or just an evening stroll in the park lift my spirits. The third is Skye lookout; it is an awe-inspiring sight.


If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
A peacock! I’ve always been fond of them. A symbol of integrity and guidance.


Which TV character are you most like and why?
Arya Stark! She’s brave and follows her heart. Has strong family roots and is a tomboy.


If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Binge-watch TV shows!

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View Nida's board blog posts here

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What are you studying? 
Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Medical Imaging)
 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I wanted to be more engaged in university activities and issues and to have the opportunity to be the voice of the students on my campus.
 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I hope to improve campus life and ensure that it remains a place of belonging for all students.
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students? 
To have a go and explore avenues beyond your comfort zone.
 

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?  

Pig because I was born in the Year of the Pig.

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
My home in Adelaide. I’ve been living there since I was born so there are so many memories.

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
None because I am scared of birds!

Which TV character are you most like and why?
Ron Weasley from Harry Potter. I have a fear of spiders!

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Learn a new language.

View Julie's board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)
 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I found it rewarding to be able to represent student voices in matters that affect the students’ academic and non-academic experiences.
 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
Iwant to expand USASA outreaches to students, especially at the City East campus, so that they can make the most out of their university life with our services.
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Mental and physical wellbeing are keys to successful university life. Please don’t feel shy or refrained from seeking help when you feel overwhelmed. There are always extra ears to listen and hands to help.
 

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Elephants - they are smart but humble, strong, and empathetic.


Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
I like to spend time strolling in the Mt Lofty Botanic Garden – just to reconnect with nature and de-stress.


If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Penguin, a bird that can’t fly but can slide!


If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
I’d be working on whatever interests strike me most at that time. I’m quite spontaneous!

View Sopor’s board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
I study a double degree in Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management). I'm currently in my fourth year.

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I've always believed in the future of UniSA, and want to see it become the leading University in South Australia for education and student life. One of the best things to help achieve this is to improve the student experience, allowing UniSA students to get the most out of their time at university. There are a lot of things that students and I would like to see achieved, and feel as though my role in USASA is a great way to achieve these things for students.
 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I want my major focus this year to be on student engagement. I think it's important to hear the stories of students, to recognise what needs to be implemented or changed to improve the student experience. Over the years, I've heard a lot about the struggles regarding international students, academic support, and making friends at university. As City West representative, I would also like to work on something specific to the campus as a way to deliver to students.
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Don’t allow your studies to be your only defining feature! Personal and professional development is also about your extra-curricular activities, your networks and experiences which allow you to grow. Now is a good time to create social networks and undertake new experiences – join a club, go on a study tour, attend some university events or seek out some volunteering opportunities!
 

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Ooh, well-considering lions are my favourite animal I'd say lions. I've got to say there are some pretty good leadership skills from Simba in the lion king!

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Adelaide botanic gardens! I absolutely love nature and being outdoors, the botanic gardens are great for relaxation. Plus, there's now a tram which connects Unisa city West and botanic gardens, making it a perfect study place!

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
I think parrots are pretty cool, and I probably talk a lot, so let's go with that.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Either dancing or cooking! I have been taking dance classes since I was 3, so it has been an ongoing passion and hobby of mine. I also really enjoy cooking (when I have enough time!) and often like to experiment trying different things (eg. Mongolian kangaroo is delicious!).
 

View Bridget’s board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
I’m going into my second year of a Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning.
 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
As cliched as it is, I wanted to improve the lives of the students of this university. As great as UniSA is for the most part, students will continue to be under attack and it’s important to fight for what we need to get a good education, and to have a decent life while doing it.
 

What can you achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I want to make sure that students get a say in the important decisions made by the university and that students are put before money. I want USASA to be running great events and fostering a fun and inclusive campus culture and I want the university to be held accountable in making improvements they have committed to, such as the City West Masterplan (have a chat to me about it, it’s great).
 

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Go to your classes. It helps so much to know the content of your course before you get to the pointy end of the study period (you know you won’t catch up on those lectures) and to have friends in your course. Make sure you go as much as you can.

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
I think a coalition government of Red Deer and African Buffalo would be my preferred option. Studies show that both have levels of democratic processes in deciding when to move to a different grazing patch and I think that’s really cool.

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide?
I’m a big fan of Port Adelaide. I love history and the port has so much of it. It also has the train museum and trains are great.

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Piping Shrike because I love SA.

Which TV character are you most like and why?
Probs Amy Santiago because I love governance and nerdy stuff like that. I’m not quite as organised as she is but I’m not convinced it’s possible to be that organised. Also kinda Josh Lyman from the West Wing because his heart is always in right place and he always tries really hard but is still a bit of an idiot sometimes. That said, the BuzzFeed quiz gave me President Barlett but I think BuzzFeed is wrong.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Spend more time volunteering (I already sacrifice my sleep for volunteering though)
 

View Ned's board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
I am a PhD Candidate in the Centre for Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience, in the school of Psychology, Social Work and Social Sciences. My research aims to investigate a potential EEG biomarker of healthy cognitive development in children, which might mediate the relationship between home environment, cognitive performance and learning outcomes, and might one day be used to identify children at risk of poor development and inform the timing and nature of interventions to support their development.

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I love studying at UniSA and I’m proud to be part of an institution with such a positive culture and a vibrant, diverse student body. At the same time, I can see many areas where we could grow and improve. I’m keen to be a part of that growth myself and to encourage other students to have a say in creating the university they want for the future.

What can you achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
In 2019 I want to help make Magill campus a vibrant and supportive space for study and socializing, and I want to continue to support equity and wellbeing for students across all campuses.

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Social connectedness is a big factor in academic success, so take the time to build friendships and connect with your classmates; it will pay off in the long run. Once you’ve made friends at uni, try to reach out to new students, particularly if they’re new to Adelaide. It’s a simple gesture that could make all the difference to their time at uni.

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
It would have to be one of those parasitic wasps that infect other insects and control their brains. They’re like the best evil sci-fi aliens - but they actually exist.

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
My favourite place in Adelaide is Morialta. It’s only 10 minutes’ drive from Magill campus and it’s the best place to get away from study and work and anything else that’s stressing you. Exercise + nature = 100% good vibes.

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
If I got to pick, I’d probably be a cassowary, because they are terrifying monster birds that apparently forgot they weren’t supposed to be dinosaurs anymore. If I had to base it on who I am as a person, I’d probably be the anxious pigeon from @chuckdrawsthings.

Which TV character are you most like and why?
Probably Amy Santiago from Brooklyn Nine-Nine, because I overthink everything, and I really wish Captain Holt was my Dad.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
I would finish my PhD, finally, tidy my house, have time for a social life, and conquer the world.

View Kate's board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot) and a Graduate Diploma of Aviation 

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I have been heavily involved in the aviation student club over the past year and have seen the work that can be accomplished through USASA by motivated board reps. I think that being a USASA representative will allow me to give back to the student community and provide them with the best university experience possible.

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I’d like to increase the number of activations taking place on my home campus, and I’d also like to increase the vibrancy and life of Mawson campus.

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
You will get back from your university experience as much as you put in. Get involved in as many clubs and events as you can and make the most of your time at Uni.

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Rise of the Planet of the Apes is ringing a bell here…
 
Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
 Second Valley. I’ve been going there since I was 4 years old. The beach is beautiful in the summer, you can go rock climbing, fishing, snorkelling. It’s the perfect place to escape to.
 
If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
An Eagle

Which TV character are you most like and why?
 Probably a cross between Captain Holt and Jake Peralta from Brooklyn 99. I can be either deadly serious or an absolute man child.
 

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time? 
Go flying. I’d be flying 24/7 if I could.

View Noah’s board blog posts here.

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What are you studying?
Civil Engineering BSc (Hons) LHMI

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
Student Representative Position is one of the most valuable positions in a student’s life and I am so lucky I got this position through this position I can be able to undertake the professional development and enhance my skills especially in terms of communication, working with the teams influencing when the important decision makings etc. Moreover, I can help my university students and could be able to hear their problems and try to solve it.

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?

1. Increase cheaper varieties of foods
2. Help international Students to adjust to the new environment
3. Improve relationship with the domestic and international students
4. Voice the concerns of student’s health

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?

1. We should not give up and we should not allow the problems to defeat us.
2. You are so much stronger than you think Success and Failure may cross one another but the act of trying remains constant.
3. Don’t call it a dream call it a plan and Never ever give up

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Lion – Power of leadership

Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Adelaide – Victoria Square, UniSA Mawson lakes campus and Glenelg Beach( Most pleasant places)

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Eagle -  Can fly higher

Which TV character are you most like and why?
The hero of Iron Fist - most thriller and action

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?

1. Try to study or complete the assignments
2. Social Media Facebook/ Instagram
3. Watching Movies

​ View Thanusshan's board blog posts here.
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What are you studying?
Bachelors of Arts (sociology)

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I am pretty much involved with all of the uni stuff like O-week volunteering to open day as well as being in the ASR also. Representing as Student for Magill campus. I want to make a Difference. Let students contact me about issues they want to raise, have their voice heard, whether a peer is struggling with a module or a group of students believe a certain aspect of the course could be improved, I will do my best and be their voice, try to make a change. Most importantly improve campus life, bring fun and excitement to uni life.

What can you achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
I would like to improve the student experience at UniSA. Through things like events, better engagement, free food. I will also try to make 24*7 library access.

What's your best piece of advice for fellow students?
If we have a goal, we can achieve anything, so DREAM BIG!!!!!!!
Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
I think APE will be a good animal as after human they are the one who are  intelligent and have human nature
 
Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Adelaide River Bank
 
Which TV character are you most like and why?
Priyanka Chopra, a Bollywood actress now also recognized as international... she is such as inspirational. she has been a voice for many girls.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Call friends and disturb them, nah just joking maybe watch a movie or cook food for the next day!!!  I love cooking.

If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Owl because I am very much active at night!

View Arunika’s board blog posts here.
 

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What are you studying?
Master of Engineering Management (LMEB)

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I always had a passion to become a voice of students.

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
Better and improved enrolment and transition process for students. Also, plan better events to maintain fun within their hectic schedules.

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Life is short, eat dessert first.

Which animal would you back as a world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Elephants – Because of smart and peaceful behaviour.
 
Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Windy point
 
If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Peregrine falcon
 
 Which TV character are you most like and why?
Mr Bean – He taught everyone that no one needs a company to be happy.
 
 If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Play computer games, watch TV, EAT…
 

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What are you studying?
Bachelor of Social Work

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
I have been on the Mount Gambier campus for 2 years now and I have built great rapport with the students on campus. Becoming a Student Representative gives us the opportunity to work together with the other reps and campus’s through UniSA. This is exciting for us regional students. I really became the student representative because I truly care for our campus and all the students. 

What do you aim to achieve for UniSA students in 2019?
With these growing relationships, I am hoping to create a campus environment where everyone feels supported. How that looks for each individual student may differ, but as a representative I want to be a person they can come and work alongside with and find a solution. I also aim to create events that cater for the students and their interests. My goal is to keep our campus fun, positive and supportive of its students.

What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?
Sleep and don’t cram! Hahaha! This is something that is repeated throughout Uni that none of us follow, myself included. But after my first year into my degree I have quickly found that I need to allow myself to wind down, breathe and reboot. This is important to keep us balanced and ready to take on the next class or assignment.

Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
Probably the goat. I mean, have you seen how well they climb those rocky slopes?
 
Where is your favourite place to go in Mount Gambier?
Ooooo that’s a tough one. I would have to say either the top of Mount Schank, or down the bottom of Leg of Mutton. If you want to know why, be sure to ask me 😊
 
If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Budgie. Hands down. One: they are the number one go to bird for a pet. Two: They’re super cute. Three: They remind me of my grandparents. So, if I had the chance, I’d become a pretty awesome budgie!
 
Which TV character are you most like and why?
For this question I actually took a quiz on buzz haha, because I had no idea who annnd we all know that trusting the internet is a full proof plan. I got Olivia Pope from Scandal, no idea who that is or what the show was about so bonus, add that to my things to watch. 

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time? 
Create a world domination plan... with goats *cheesy grin*

View  Laurena’s board blog posts here.
 

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What are you studying?
Bachelor of Social Work

What made you want to become a Student Representative?
Interest in engaging the local community in tertiary education and the ability to be able to create and provide fun incentives around campus that encourage continual participation from current students.
 
What are you aiming to achieve for UniSA students in 2018?

• Increased engagement in social activities throughout the Whyalla Campus
• Greater presence and social status in the local community
• Greater sense of belonging for students as individuals
• More engagement between students from differing degrees.

 
What's your best piece of advice for your fellow students?

• Remember why you are studying, never lose sight of and prioritise your end goals!
• Do your readings!
• Don’t over-think or over-stress yourself about exams!
• Use all the support given to you! Don’t be afraid to ask!
• Make friends! Get to know others in your classes whether you are external or internal
• Always take advantage of the free food!

 
Which animal would you back as world leader if the animal kingdom were to rise up and take over?
A dog:

• Always forgives
• Loyal
• Loving
• Always up for some fun

 
Where is your favourite place to go in Adelaide/Whyalla/Mount Gambier?
Favourite Places in/around Whyalla would be:

• Point Lowly
• Whyalla Beach
• Telstra hill on storming days/nights
• Hotel Spencer
• Any restaurant of food place that serves good food!

 
If you were a bird, what type of bird would you be?
Definitely not a seagull because they are annoying, not a magpie, because they are just evil, not a pelican because they are usually lonely…. So pretty much any other bird!
 
Which TV character are you most like and why?
Cheryl Blossom from Riverdale because despite previous hurdles she continues to be a strong independent young women and goes for anything and everything that she wants without fear of failing!
 
If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?
Eat more food and travel to new places… or am I meant to say do all my readings?

 

View Wenona’s board blog posts here.
 

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2018 Student Board

2017 Student Board