September 7, 2022

Message to students - 7 September, 2022

Dear students, I think those of you who attended Respect Week sessions last week will agree it was powerful. I feel energised and inspired by the engagement of staff and students.

Thursday’s event with Grace Tame, UOW graduate Lucy Smith, and a panel of subject matter experts on the theme of ‘Consent Conversations’, was one that I think we will all remember for a long time to come. It was a difficult but vitally important conversation for our community. We will continue to focus our efforts in this space until everyone in our UOW community feels safe and respected.

R U OK? Day

Tomorrow is R U OK? Day. When looking at the impacts of the last two years, it's not surprising to know that 1 in 16 Australians are experiencing depression or that 1 in 7 is experiencing anxiety. As always, R U OK? Day is our reminder that every day is the right day to ask a friend if they are okay. We’re validating, normalising and encouraging conversations about the emotions being felt in this climate. If you’re free and able, head to UOW Pulse’s Wellness event, 8 September, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm at the Duck Pond Lawn, Wollongong campus.

Support for those with family and friends in Pakistan

We are mindful that some of our students, with friends and family based in Pakistan, will be very concerned during the current flooding crisis across the country. Please know that we are here to support you. Academic consideration is available to students whose study has been impacted by these events – you can apply for this via SOLS. There are also options for help with fees if you expect delays in tuition fee payments - you will need to contact student-fees@uow.edu.au. A number of free support services are also available for all UOW students both and . We send our best wishes and support to you, your family and your friends. 

UOW research and achievements roundup: 

Every month or so I try to include a few of the impressive research or achievement highlights from across the University. From prize-winning academics to student debaters competing internationally, here’s a list of just a few:

Nominations for the 2022 Student Elections are now open

Become a voice for your fellow students or encourage someone you know who would make an excellent student representative. Available 2023 positions include student members of the University Council, Academic Senate, Wollongong Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA), and Wollongong University Postgraduate Association (WUPA). Student input is critical to our decision-making and is your way of providing an invaluable student perspective on a range of issues, including those affecting academic life and the student experience. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable leadership experience, represent your peers, and build knowledge about how the University works. Nominations close Tuesday, 20 September. , and good luck! 

Meeting wonderful UOW alumni across the world

I am currently in the United States, meeting with UOW alumni in New York and San Francisco. Did you know there are nearly 10,000 UOW alumni in the US doing amazing things in the world? If you want to keep up with my travels and the amazing people I’m meeting, follow me on Instagram.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the rest of your week.

My best,
Trish