Committee Member Info

Learn About Us

Whole Committee:

 

Executive Committee:

 

Media and Marketing:

 

Cultural and Social: 

 

Education:

 

Welfare:

 

Partnership and Sponsorship:

 

Human Resources:

 

Graduate:

 

We have asked our committee members to answer three general questions followed by fun question to learn more about who they are as people outside of the committee and understand what motivated them to join the UMSU International family.

 

President:

 

Name: Richard Ha
Position: President
Nationality: Vietnamese
Major: Data Science

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSU International because I wanted to represent and make changes that would benefit the international student cohort, because even though we are extremely many in numbers, I felt like there was much work to be done to really cement how integral international students are to the university community.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Personally, UMSU International has allowed me to learn so many skills that are applicable in everyday life, such as just talking to people to get an objective complete. In addition, it has also helped me professionally by connecting me to people and groups that are relevant in my career here, as well as providing me with training with soft skills that are almost always used in any workplace – for example, scheduling a handful of meetings amidst uni work and part-time work too. I also had the opportunity to meet people that I will value very much so for the rest of my life.

Three artists to describe to describe your music taste?

I listen to almost every genre so it's hard to pick three that captures everything. Indigo la End, Machine Girl, and Playboi Carti.

 

Media and Marketing:

 

Name: Madeline Susanto 
Position: Vice President
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: User Experience Design

Why did you join UMSU International?

I started out as an ISA at UMSUi and met a lot of lovely people in the committee. Then a friend encouraged me to apply too and I got in :)

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

I learned a lot about communication, working as a team and managing tough workloads under various circumstances. Also got to meet so many wonderful friends along the way!

What's your favourite thing about the country you're from?

There are so many things I love about my country, but I would have to pick the nature there. So much beautiful mountains and beaches to see!

 

Name: Tanveen Kaur
Position: Director
Nationality: Indian
Major: Economics, Politics and International Studies

Why did you join UMSU International?

Joining UMSUi was a natural choice, offering a vibrant community where I can connect with fellow international students, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural exchange!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has truly been a game-changer for me both personally and professionally. Starting off as an ISA volunteer, I found myself deeply engaged with the international student community, which ignited my passion for leadership and service. This initial involvement paved the way for me to take on the role of Media & Marketing Director, where I am not only refining crucial organizational and communication skills but also forging invaluable connections!

What is your most favourite movie?

The last movie I really loved was Avatar: The Way of Water!

 

Name: Coby Cheung
Position: Officer
Nationality: Hong Kong
Major: Psychology

Why did you join UMSU International?

I wanted to make more friends and try to help other international students to feel more at home!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

I learned so much more about Media and Marketing, as well as the key to creating unique designs! I've also met a bunch of amazing people and grew a lot as a person.

What is the best live performance you’ve ever been to?

JOJI'S PANDEMONIUM CONCERT!! Bro is talented & hilarious, made me cry during Slow Dancing in the Dark.

 

Name: Christie Deandria
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Pathology

Why did you join UMSU International?

I really enjoyed helping out in events and learned a lot during my time as an ISA, so I decided push myself outside my comfort zone and join UMSUi to gain more skills and experience.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Definitely learned a lot about behind-the-scenes event planning, social media management, and how to better comunicate and collaborate with other people! Met a lot of new friends too – everyone's so lovely here.

If you could travel to any year in a time machine, what year would you choose and why?

Probably sometime around late 19th century Victorian London! London's the centre of the world at that point and I grew up reading a lot of books set in this time period (Sherlock Holmes, the Time Machine, etc.), so I really wanna see and experience what it's like being there...

 

Name: Megan Zouves Wiranto
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Finance and Marketing

Why did you join UMSU International?

I was drawn to the memorable and exciting events this organisation offers and liked how they promoted such a warm and welcoming energy especially towards new students on campus. I became eager to contribute back to the community by offering creative ideas and insights to the organisation in hopes of enhancing student experiences and making a difference within our academic community. 

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Participating in UMSUi has been a rewarding journey for me, offering both professional and personal growth. From a professional standpoint, it has allowed me to enhance my teamwork and communication skills, as well as develop a knack for efficient project management. On a personal level, it has been a joy to connect with the warm and supportive community within UMSUi and collaborate with them on organising events.

What's the most surprising thing that you've learned in Melbourne in your time here as a student?

I was caught off guard by the erratic weather in Melbourne. In just 5 minutes, it could go from a heavy downpour to bright and sunny skies.

 

Cultural and Social:

 

Name: Christian Valerian
Position: Vice President
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Marketing and Finance

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi because I see it as an opportunity to network, find friends and communities in the university. But, I've learned that I got a lot more than I expected in this role.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi helps to me to build skills and build up connection professionally. Not only my experiences here helps me to learn transferrable skills, I've also gotten the chance to be in contact with important people of the university and students across the campus. Well, other than that, I found friendship I know will last a lifetime.

What's your most replayed song on Spotify?

Clap – Seventeen.

 

Name: Aksh Batra
Position: Director
Nationality: Indian
Major: Marketing and Management

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined the UMSUI because I wanted to connect with students from different countries and cultures. I hoped to make friends, participate in events, and support international students during their time at the university.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUI has played a pivotal role in cultivating both personal and professional connections, vital for success for my future in the real estate industry. By participating in networking events and engaging with peers, I've refined essential interpersonal skills like communication, leadership, and time management. These experiences will undoubtedly empower me to forge strong relationships and thrive in the competitive corporate world.

f you can be transported into a fictional setting, what would it be?

I would choose the world of "Star Trek." The advanced technology, diverse cultures, and exploration opportunities would offer endless possibilities for business ventures and innovation. Plus, the values of cooperation and progress would create an ideal environment for building successful enterprises and making a positive impact on society.

 

Name: Yashvi Narula
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Marketing and Management

Why did you join UMSU International?

I started my journey with UMSUi as an ISA, and since then I wanted to be a part of this impactful and homely committee. I love organising events especially catered towards international students because I have also been on the other side and know the important role it played especially in my first semester!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Professionally, UMSUi has taught me a plethora of skils and gave me insights into the intricacies of event planning. I learnt a lot about the coordination and teamwork needed to execute the smallest of events. Personally, I am blessed to meet a bunch of great people and made wonderful friendships!

What food would you recommend to someone going to your country for the first time?​

Definitely [go to] Delhi, bestest ever street food – would recommend chaat and gol gappa!

 

Name: Chenxi Song (Vicky)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Chinese
Major: Biotechnology (Pharmacology)

Why did you join UMSU International?

I started as an ISA in 2022 and enjoyed various events organised by this friendly committee. By joining UMSUi, I would be able to organise more events for international students.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

With my personal growth, building friendships and understanding different cultures are two main aspects. My coordination and organisational skills have been also efficiently improved with other CnS officers.

What is the least amount of money you would accept to eat a fried cockroach?

I definitely wouldn't be able to eat one regardless of the amount of money.

 

Name: Sol Kwon
Position: Officer
Nationality: Korean
Major: Immunology

Why did you join UMSU International?

I started as an ISA and I absolutely loved the connections I got to make with other international friends. Then I wanted to join this committee and organise the events for international students.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

There are so many to talk about but mainly, I got to learn how much effort is needed for an event. It taught me how to take responsibility for small tasks in every event while bonding with our lovely committee members

What's your favourite thing about Melbourne?

You don't need to wait a full year to go through the four seasons. A day is more than enough :)

 

Name: Jason Yuen Jie Ng
Position: Officer
Nationality: Malaysian
Major: Mechanical Engineering System

Why did you join UMSU International?

UMSUi have done lots for me as an international student! Being introduced to many others who are in a similar situation and being able to contribute back to the committee that made all this possible!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Joining UMSUi has allowed me to find people who I am able to connect with and forge everlasting bonds with them! Not to mention the diverse range of soft and hard skills I've developed with every new events and contribution made!! Always a new experience at every corner :D

What would you be as a pizza topping?

PEPPERONI :D

 

Name: Christopher Minn
Position: Officer
Nationality: Australian
Major: Computer Software Systems

Why did you join UMSU International?

I know international students have it tough and it can get lonely. I wanted to help international students get more opportunities to feel like they're part of a community.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

It has taught me to actively reinforce and remind myself why I'm doing the work I do with UMSUi. When times gets tough, it's easy to forget and to start doubting yourself and the impact you bring. But seeing people make friends and share memories with our events makes it all worth it.

What's your go-to dance move?

My go-to dance moves are heavily inspired by JYP, particulary his captivating style when dancing to New Jeans' Hype Boy.

 

Name: Shifa Nathani
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Psychology & Sociology

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi solely for creating an impactful and cherishable expereince for the international student body at UniMelb!!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Have learned so much about teamwork, collaborating with people from different backgrounds, leadership skills and behind-the-scenes of event planning, execution. Also, for sure has helped me create an amazing network of friends <33

What's your go-to karaoke song?

Teenage Fever by Drake

 

Name: Rebecca Christopher
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Graphic Design and Performance Design

Why did you join UMSU International?

I wanted to give back to my community more by being part of UMSUi I knew I could make deeper and more meaningful change. By organizing events, facilitating activities and just being part of the organization, I wanted to make a difference in the lives of the international students.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

I've always dreamt of organizing events from scratch and I've been given the opportunity to watch how events in University unfold! Other than event planning, UMSUi has given me amazing memories with so many wonderful and kind-hearted people! I am so grateful to have met such a well-rounded group of individuals with a wide range of skills and expertise.

If you can instantly learn one skill, what would it be?

I'd love to learn how to fly planes. It's probably too crazy of a skill but imagine telling people that you could fly a plane...and if I ever went on an airplane no one would have to say "have a safe flight" because even if the pilots are bad I'll know how to land it. I'll make sure it's a safe flight!

 

Education and Welfare:

 

Name: Robertus Jonathan Indrajaja
Position: Vice President
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Data Science

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi because I wanted to make more friends and have something else to do other than academics, but I've come to realize I got much more than I asked for.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has taught me things that I would never have learned elsewhere. I've learned to negotiate, collaborate, think critically and meet people from different backgrounds. I've learned to become more confident, outgoing and open-minded. I've learned to network and engage with professionals in various fields as well as academia at the university. I've been apart of UMSUi since the start of my university journey, and I have not regret it one bit.

What's the most spontaneous thing you've ever done?

I went to Docklands at midnight to take photos there.

 

Education:

 

Name: Andrea Makatita
Position: Director
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Psychology, Minor Knowledge and Learning

Why did you join UMSU International?

My best friend persuaded me to initially sign up as an ISA because he said doing so was the "best decision of his life" (he then also became an OB). Little did I know it would also be one of the best decisions of my life.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi gave me a platform where I was able to train my project management skills, as well as build so many lifelong connections (professionally and friendship-wise). I'm also so grateful for having such a supportive VP who always listens to my (sometimes) crazy ideas and gives me the opportunity to really use the "thinking outside of the box" version of myself :))

If you could switch places with anyone for a day in UMSUi, who would it be, and why?

Christian Valerian [CnS Vice President]. Man slays so hard, I'm such a fan <33

 

Name: Natasya Jestine Wiraatmaja
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Biomedical Biotechnology (Pharmacology)

Why did you join UMSU International?

I thorougly cherished my time as an ISA. The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming and I built strong connections within the community. Also, I'm keen on gaining experiences and boosting my profile.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Through my time in UMSUi, I have developed my personal and professional growth while meeting lovely people and making lasting bondings. My experiences have prepared me in developing my skills for future careers.

What's your favourite fictional character?

Cinderella, because she embodies my childhood imagination. As I grow up, her journey from hardship to happily ever after reminds me that even in the face of difficulties, it can lead to brighter life and future

 

Name: Rachel Zhou
Position: Officer
Nationality: Chinese
Major: Economics and Finance

Why did you join UMSU International?

I loved my time as an ISA, and how every culture is welcome here and we are an inclusive and supportive community. Therefore I joined the committee to create a positive impact within the international student community by organizing events that help to enhance their university experience.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

I’ve met so many great new people and made lots of lasting memories. It’s great to be able to share a bond with people from different cultures and backgrounds that I can now call family. Professionally, it has honed my communication skills in a professional context as well as improved my ability to work with diverse teams.

What's your dream road trip destination?​

Santorini! I’ve always been fascinated by how pretty the sea is in Greece and would love to see it for myself on wheels.

 

Name: Zijia Zhou (Gia)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Chinese
Major: Human Structure and Function

Why did you join UMSU International?

Enjoy a different part of University outside of studying, and to donate some service to my fellow international students.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has created a safe space for me as an international student. I felt cared for, respected and valued as an international student in a foreign country. The experience with UMSUi has also developed my communication, teamwork and management skills which would prepare me for future careers.

If you could have any magic/superpower, what would it be?

Probably the ability to sleep instantly and wake up whenever I want. I kind of struggle with insomnia and consequentially getting up in time.

 

Name: Tiffany Auyeung
Position: Officer
Nationality: Filipino
Major: Finance & Management

Why did you join UMSU International?

I love coming up with cool events and ensuring new uni students have a blast, aiming to make their transition to university life smooth, super fun, and unforgettable. Becoming part of the International Student Union was the perfect avenue for realizing all these aspirations.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Joining UMSU International gave me practical insight into event planning and equipped me with conflict-resolution skills. This journey instilled resilience, pushing me to manage time efficiently, shoulder responsibilities, and enhance my teamwork and organizational abilities. Most importantly, it provided me with the opportunity to bond with like-minded and very hardworking peers who supported my growth. The UMSU International community feels like a second home to me here in Melbourne!

What's one thing in your bag that you cannot live without?

My mirror phone case! I don't have to carry a compact mirror with me, just my phone! It’s clearer and more convenient than using the iPhone front cam. Plus, you can discreetly check how you look without opening the camera app (which is a bit too obvious, hahaha). My friends would always borrow my phone for the mirror to do some touch-ups!

 

Welfare:

 

Name: Ying Yu Chen (Danielle)
Position: Director
Nationality: New Zealand
Major: Accounting

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi because it was a really good platform that gave me the opportunity to contribute things to the community, and it gave me things to achieve outside of the academic spectrum.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has given me the chance to develop so many different skills, such as communication and leadership, that will undoubtedly be a great benefit to my future development, personally and professionally. I've also been so lucky to meet so many different people from all kinds of cultures and backgrounds, and make some really good friends through UMSUi.

Do you have a motto/quote that inspires you?

"Know it's for the better <3"

 

Name: Yuxuan Liu (Linda)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Chinese
Major: Psychology

Why did you join UMSU International?

I was an ISA in the first place, and it was really heartwarming to see that there's such a safe space for international students. I wanted to contribute myself in this supportive community and see what I could offer. It seemed really fun and rewarding for me.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi enabled me to gain insights into how big events were being organized and how the internal systems works in a such big organization. I was able to communicate with different factors which its very interesting for me. Not saying with LOT of free food, great vibes everytime I stepped into the UMSUi lounge and some core memories being made that I could look back to after 5 years, even 10!

If you could have dinner with a famous person (living or dead), who would you choose?​

It would be a different answer next time you ask me, but at the moment would be Heath Ledger since I am obsessed with Ten Things I Hate About You (romcom girly fr) and I wanna know his life story from his POV.

 

Name: Soudaphone Sitthixay (Planet)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Laos
Major: Politics, International Studies, and Media Communications

Why did you join UMSU International?

Besides initially being nutched by a few of my friends, I joined UMSUi hoping to make positive impact for other international students while also building lifelong bonds :D

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi had impacted me lots in both of my professional and personal growth. Being able to have insights into the intricacies of collaborating within a large organization have taught me the craft of efficient coordination and communication in a team environment. Besides, I've met soo many amazing people that had made this experience what it is and 20x better than I had – I'm forever grateful and the journey wouldn't have been as great without everyone! :")

What is one of your guilty pleasures?​

Indulging in 200 gr of blueberries in one sitting :')

Name: Nikita Goyal
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Masters of Construction Management

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi to make new friends and to experience something new in my second year of uni.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has helped me get involved in the activities of UniMelb more than I did earlier. It has given me a platform to enjoy my university life.

What would you do if you won the lottery?

At first I would not believe that I've won, then I would probably buy a house and a car in a beautiful beach location.

 

Name: Seoyoun Kim (Youn)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Korean
Major: Media and Communications & Screen and Cultural Studies

Why did you join UMSU International?

UMSUi helped me settle into life in Melbourne by providing me with valuable experiences and friendships when I first came to Melb. So, I decided to join UMSUi and give back to the international student community in the same way. I hope to be able to assist someone who is facing similar challenges and make a positive impact on their life.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

It is helping me grow a lot. All I'm doing here is my first experience, like organizing a huge university event. While experiencing something new is always exciting, I sometimes feel a bit intimidated. However, my UMSUi journey has taught me the mindset of just going for it despite any fears I may have. What makes this journey even more special is the wonderful and lovely people I have met here :)

What's the most interesting fact about your country that you know?

In Korean culture, the importance of meals cannot be overstated. The word "meal" is a frequently used term in everyday conversations. For example, "Have you had a meal?" is a common greeting, similar to "How are you?". By the way guys, have you had a meal? :)

 

Name: Ella Liang
Position: Officer
Nationality: New Zealand
Major: Psychology

Why did you join UMSU International?

When I decided to apply, I was merely focused on the possibility of becoming acquainted with many likeminded people. As a side task, I also wanted to improve myself in terms of management, communication and to grow myself professionally.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has been an eye-opening experience. Joining the committee has given me a tiny peek into what working professionally may look like. UMSUi has taught me a lot about clear communication between collegues and also encouraged me to build on my perserverance, time management, and organisation skills. But most importantly, UMSUi has given me the opportunity to meet many gifted and hardworking individuals, all of whom I can freely converse with and learn from.

What are your food recommendations in Melbourne?

As someone with an amazing Chinese mother who whips up delicious dishes, I often find myself craving Chinese cuisine. There is a very tasty restaurant that makes 酸菜鱼 (which roughly translates to boiled fish and picked cabbage) called 山城外老坛酸菜鱼 Fish and Pickles Melbourne. I also love Korean food, so would also recommend Dooboo and Nene Chicken. Thinking about all these food makes my mouth salivate XD
 

Name: Qi Evelyn Wang (Evelyn)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Singaporean
Major: Neuroscience

Why did you join UMSU International?

I love working with people and have never been part of such a large team before, so I wanted to challenge myself and also contribute what I have to offer too.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Being in UMSUi has a given me the opportunity to be part of a large organisation and learn how to communicate effectively with a team in order to make things run smoothly. Whether it be event-planning or just hanging out with the other community members, I have learned lots from the experiences from others. I have also met so many amazing people and friends here :")

What are some culture shocks you discovered after coming to Melbourne?

I found Australian slang so difficult to understand when I first got here and it sounded like a foreign language to me, but now it's a bit easier to understand!

 

Partnership and Sponsorship:

 

Name: Jeslyn Tandyajaya
Position: Treasurer
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Economics and Finance

Why did you join UMSU International?

I joined UMSUi as an ISA at first, where I was then encouraged to run for committee. I met some wonderful people in the committee and decided to run again! I saw that it was an amazing opportunity to develop skills and make a bunch of friends in the process!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has taught me things that I would never have learned elsewhere. I've learned to negotiate, collaborate, think critically and meet people from different backgrounds. I've learned to become more confident, outgoing and open-minded. I've learned to network and engage with professionals in various fields as well as academia at the university. I've been apart of UMSUi since the start of my university journey, and I have not regret it one bit.

Q: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

SUSHIII!!!

Name: Xinyuan Wang (Cynthia)
Position: Director
Nationality: Chinese
Major: Finance and Economics

Why did you join UMSU International?

Connecting people from different cultural backgrounds and contributing my bit to make the university experience fun for everyone involved.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has opened up a whole new world of friendships and fun experiences. Professionally, it makes me to be more attuned to different cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking. I have also developed my leadership and networking skill by interacting with different people, which would help me to suceed in my future career.

Any oddly specific thing that you have to do or otherwise you feel like something is wrong?

Always check if my phone is in my pocket.

 

Name: Angelina Peng
Position: Officer
Nationality: New Zealand
Major: Civil Systems

Why did you join UMSU International?

I guess I joined UMSUi by the encouragement of my peers and even current members of the committee, but also I thought it would be a good opportunity to improve my resume as well.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has allowed me get a better idea of how big scaled events are organised and it's interesting to see how all these events come together through the amount of planning and preparation done by the committee. It was definitely a great opportunity to learn how to get along with various different people from all different backgrounds. I also had the opportunity to meet people that I see myself being in contact for the forseeable future.

What's the most interesting thing that has happened to you in the past year?

Definitely the opportunity to travel to 7 countries in the span of 6 months!!!

 

Human Resources and Graduate:

 

Name: Yhi Zhen Lim (Ethan)
Position: General Secretary
Nationality: Malaysian
Major: Finance and Accounting

Why did you join UMSU International?

I first joined UMSUi as a co-opted officer because I wanted improve my resume (and also because my friend gave me the "just join bro" :D)

I decided to run for the position of secretary because I was thoroughly captivated by the culture of UMSUi. It gave me a sense of belonging and purpose, as I survive through the chaotic uni life.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has given me a wide variety of experiences that have greatly benefited my personal development. From teamwork & leadership skills to problem-solving and critical thinking, the skills & experience one can gain through UMSUi are limitless. Furthermore, UMSUi also allowed me to meet some of my closest friends throughout my uni life. It provided me a purpose and companionship while I was still in my first year trying to figure out life.

Favourite Food and Drink combo?

Roti Canai x2 + Milo Ice!!!

 

Human Resources:

 

Name: Wun Tung Lam (Cherry)
Position: Director
Nationality: Hong Kong
Major: Finance and Marketing

Why did you join UMSU International?

The sense of family and bonding between the committee was the main reason for me staying at UMSU International.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

My second year serving as a committee member at UMSU International has further boosted my leadership and stress-tolerance skills. Although I am not majoring in management, I am grateful to have built up my human resources management skills and made me more capable of dealing with the future job market.

Is there a food/drink that you will never eat/drink?

Durian. 

 

Name: Luong Hien Tam (Tam)
Position: Officer
Nationality: Vietnamese
Major: Marketing and Management

Why did you join UMSU International?

Mainly to make new friends and have a supportive platform to make impactful events :)

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

2 years at UMSUi have given me the roles of a CnS and HR Officer, which allowed me to excel in organizing and hosting events, recruiting and interviewing candidates, as well as managing people. It also helps me to overcome my fear of socializing and public speaking, not to mention I made many good friends along the way too XD

Tell us a secret about yourself! :D

You ready?... I have 9 siblings (6 brothers, 3 sisters) and 29 nephews and nieces (more to come haha) which is a HUGE familee =))

 

Name: Kayven Claus Satrio
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indonesian
Major: Neuroscience

Why did you join UMSU International?

UMSUi is not merely a body of representation from international students. But it is an organization where positive communal changes and support happens. Where I have felt tremendously through UMSUi events and programs. This motivates me to join UMSUi where I could be a part of change-makers yet also meeting diverse and amazing people in this organization.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSUi has given me this platform where I could alleviate both my hard and soft skills. But through my department as well, I am able to meet an array of incredible people with amazing background, stories, and culture that makes them unique. Which through that I am able to learn and to value these things.

What would you have as a last meal?

I would like to have matcha with oatmilk for my drink, spaghetti carbonara for my meal, and tiramisu for my dessert.

 

Name: Gurshan Singh Nanda
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Computing and Software Systems

Why did you join UMSU International?

The international community is always something that excites me. When someone says they’re international, I’m amazed at how they left their own country, are away from family, work part-time, study & live independently, all while they’re as young as 18! UMSUi is the heart of such international students, making everyone feel home away from home & that’s my reason to be here-to be a part of this amazing community, give back & keep learning about the far lands of this world, all from the comfort of Melbourne!

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Personally, UMSUi has given me a place to look for when I have free time between classes. A place filled with amazing people who, by the way are so fun and interesting to talk to. It’s given me that sense of community here in a whole new place. Professionally, UMSUi has given me an array of opportunities to enhance both my soft & hard skills. From HR to event management, I’ve developed and enhanced so many skills which I’d never have thought of. Overall, I encapsulate UMSUi in 3 words- joyful, passionate & most importantly- fam!

What's the most daring thing you have done?​

I went to the most romantic place on Earth- Paris, with a couple of my friends. I liked one of my friends at that time and wanted to tell her on the Eiffel Tower and...So I did! And she….rejected me :)

 

Graduate:

 

Name: Hiranmayi Ramesh
Position: Director
Nationality: Indian
Major: Master of Management (Marketing)

Why did you join UMSU International?

I wanted a platform that would enable me to voice out for my fellow students and give back to the student community. Also through UMSUi, I wanted to connect with a wider set of people and make long lasting connections.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Personally, UMSUi has created a plethora of connections both at a personal and professional level and has helped me get to know my peers well and learn from them. It has also enabled me to develop my soft skills like interpersonal communication, leadership, time management, and so on, that is sure to benefit me when I step into a corporate role.

What's one thing that can instantly make your day better?

Ice creams (Anytime/Anyday) :p

 

Name: Asawari Sahebrao Sirsat
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Master of Management (Marketing)

Why did you join UMSU International?

Arriving in Melbourne as a new international student, I was eager to connect with others who shared my experiences. Joining UMSU International provided the perfect opportunity to do just that. Through organizing events, connecting with peers, and offering support, I found fulfillment in making a positive impact on the lives of fellow students. It was a truly enriching experience that I'll always cherish.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

UMSU International provided me with a supportive community, fostering personal growth through friendships and cultural exposure. Professionally, it's been a training ground, teaching me how to organize events, communicate effectively, and lead with empathy. On a personal level, it helped me grow, teaching me empathy, understanding, and the beauty of connection across borders.

What is the weirdest food combination you enjoy?

It's the simplest things that bring the most enjoyment and for me it's eating water and biscuits (especially Parle g, it's an Indian brand).

 

Name: Mansi Rawat
Position: Officer
Nationality: Indian
Major: Masters of Business Administration

Why did you join UMSU International?

Becoming part of a UMSU International committee can be a fulfilling and enriching experience, offering personal and professional growth opportunities while making a positive impact on the UniMelb community.

What has UMSU International done for you personally/professionally?

Professionally, it has helped me in my team-building skills, working with many other hardworking and energetic committee members. Personally, joining the committee for me is a way to give back and ensure that these services are available and effective for current students.

Favourite location on campus?

South Lawn, definitely to simply sit and relax!