Being a Student Advocate

Helen Thomas - Postgraduate Student Advocate

Isn’t it great when you can say how much you love the work you do.

I must admit I didn’t know what to expect when I came to work as a Postgraduate Student Advocate at the Tasmania University Union. I knew what the job entailed, and I knew I had the skills and expertise to do it well, but nothing prepared me for how much joy I would get from working with students who are experiencing problems. I can honestly say it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling jobs I have ever had.

When students come to seek support from an advocate they are usually feeling distressed, lost, frustrated, scared, confused or unsupported. Something has happened to them that has affected their ability to study. It could be that they have received an allegation of academic misconduct, or they are experiencing financial hardship or a relationship breakdown with their lecturer or supervisor, or they are facing exclusion. Perhaps they feel the University has not fulfilled its responsibilities according to their policies or procedures and as a result feel severely disadvantaged.

When a student comes to me with a problem, my first job is to listen carefully so I can gain a full understanding of their situation. This means sitting with them for however long it takes and supporting them in whatever way I can so they feel comfortable sharing their story with me. Sometimes it will be the first time the student has shared their problem or issue with someone, so it can be quite an emotional and difficult time for them. But once they share their story they often feel a lot lighter, as though a huge burden has been lifted from their shoulders. They also feel reassured to know that there is someone who has their back.

Being an advocate means I mostly see students who only have problems and who can be very stressed and anxious. While this may seem depressing or hard work, I see it as a real opportunity to make a difference to someone else’s life. Being able to put my skills and expertise to good use and help a student solve their problem is incredibly rewarding and uplifting.

The best reward is seeing a student go from feeling down and out to seeing them with a big smile on their face because their study life is back on track and they are able to move forward in a positive way.

While many large institutions are moving away from face-to-face interactions and encouraging us to go online for all of our goods and services, I love how we as student advocates continue to offer students a human connection, a compassionate listening ear and our time. I believe this goes a long way towards making a better world for everyone.