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Emily is a fourth year Commerce and Law student majoring in Economics. She was previously the DUSA Assistant General Secretary and is excited about stepping up to the role of President. This year has been a really hard year for students and Emily wants to make a difference.
“Students are undeniably doing it tough. I wanted to step up to the role of President as I have the experience and resilience to lead DUSA, plus I have a great team to support me. I want to alleviate some of the pressure students are feeling,” Emily says.
Why did you join DUSA?
I found a sense of community when I joined DUSA. Once I started getting involved in club events and meetings, University became so much more fun. DUSA is also there to reduce the day to day pressures students face.
What has DUSA achieved so far this year?
• 14-day census grace period and extending the withdrawn late (WL) date
• Securing assignment extensions without medical certificates
• Hardship support from Deakin for domestic and international students.
What do you have planned for DUSA in the future?
• Improve promotion of DUSA events
• Standardise extension criteria
• Foster a more inclusive Deakin
• Ensure concerns of Cloud Students are heard
• Help students to have a smooth transition back to on-campus learning
• Improving student engagement.
Why should students join DUSA?
You have probably heard about the awesome merchandise, but DUSA is so much more. It provides a Student Advocacy and Support Service (SASS), financial counselling, legal service, scholarships, support & funding for clubs and events, transport assistance and survival centres. Students can attend short trips & tours organised by DUSA. Gain some new connections and join a club. There are over 120 clubs so you are sure to find one that interests you.
This sounds awesome. How can Deakin students be a part of the DUSA Committee?
There are a few different ways. Nominating during DUSA’s annual elections. If the election is over, you can contact the General Secretary who will let you know if there are any vacancies. If there are no spots available, get involved by becoming a DUSA Crew member. Crew members assist with DUSA events. By being part of the DUSA crew, you get a chance to meet everyone involved at DUSA.
How do students voice their concerns to the committee?
Reach out to your representative or speak to a student counsellor.
Contact Student Council or contact Campus Committee.
If you are unsure of the best person to contact DUSA and we can direct to the best person or resource to assist you.
Emily’s final piece of advice for students…
Check out some DUSA clubs. By joining a club, you get to meet new people and connect with other students. Emily says “it is easy to feel disconnected and disheartened right now. DUSA has over 120 clubs, so there is bound to be one that interests you”.
Written by Shaela Mauger.
