An update from the GSA President: June 16th 2025
Dear Graduate Students,
I hope your exams and research are going as smoothly as possible during this busy time of year.
We recognise that ongoing global conflicts and events, combined with academic pressures, are affecting many in our graduate student community. This can be a distressing time, and I want to remind you that you’re not alone. GSA is here to support you throughout your graduate journey. If you’re finding things difficult, I encourage you to access the University’s Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) – a resource I’ve personally found very helpful when I needed the support, clarity and guidance. I’d also like to remind you that applying for special consideration is an option, and encourage everyone to show care and understanding toward their peers during this time.
On a lighter note, I’m proud to share that our newly elected representative team has officially begun their term following a two-day intensive induction! Across our Board and Councils, we have a female-dominant leadership, as well as mature-age students, PhD candidates, and culturally diverse voices. They bring fresh energy, varied perspectives, and a strong commitment to student advocacy. I’m looking forward to working alongside them to represent and support the needs of graduate students.
Last but not the least, GSA currently sits on the University’s Assessments and Results Policy Review Working Group, which is reviewing how assessments are designed, marked, and adjusted, including the use of special consideration and strategies to maintain academic integrity in light of generative AI. Thank you for those who have already reached out. If you have feedback or concerns about assessments, please feel free to reach out.
As usual, you can reach me at president@gsa.unimelb.edu.au.
Yours sincerely,
Ethan Chou