Interview with Gevargis Thomas | UOA Council Student Rep Candidate

University Council Student Rep Elections are on NOW! Vote here! Elections close at 12 pm on Tuesday, 14 October. Check out interviews with some of the other candidates on our website. More on the elections can be found here.

What are you studying at UOA? What’s been your most rewarding and most challenging paper, and what did you learn from each?

I am currently a PhD candidate in Civil and Environmental Engineering. For PhD students, the focus is on independent research rather than traditional papers. The most challenging milestone is undoubtedly the Confirmation Review in the first year. Having to clearly define and defend my entire research plan in front of a panel was intense, but it taught me invaluable lessons in strategic communication, justifying complex methodologies, and intellectual resilience. The most rewarding aspect of the PhD so far has been the process of translating a complex, real-world engineering problem into an innovative, defensible research project. This has significantly built my confidence in driving a long-term vision.

Will you remain enrolled and available to serve the full two-year term?

Yes, I will remain enrolled. I am fully committed to dedicating the necessary time and effort to effectively represent the student body throughout the entire Council term and beyond my expected candidature.

What should a University’s role be in providing for students' academic and cultural pursuits?

A University's role must be dual-focused: to be an enabler of academic excellence and a curator of an inclusive cultural community. Academically, this means providing equitable access to high-quality teaching, research supervision, and modern, well-maintained facilities. Culturally, the University must actively foster a diverse and supportive environment through accessible funding, resources, and spaces for student-led clubs, media, and activities that enable all students to explore their identities and build community beyond their studies.

Have you reviewed UOA’s 2026 CSSF budget? Are there any changes you would advocate for?

Yes, I have reviewed the 2026 Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) budget. The fee covers critical services, including Health, Counselling, and Hardship Funding. I would advocate for two key changes:

Increased Transparency and Scrutiny: I would push for clearer, student-led reporting on the outcomes and impact of funding, particularly within the 'Financial Support and Advice' and 'Counselling Services' categories, to ensure funds are going directly to high-impact services.

Increased Support for Student Employment: I would advocate for more targeted CSSF investment towards student jobs and initiatives that directly address student financial stability through accessible campus employment and budget-friendly food options on campus.

If elected, how will you stay visible, accessible, and responsive?

My representation will be built on consistent engagement:

Office Hours: I will hold regular, scheduled office hours on campus to provide direct, face-to-face accessibility for students to raise any issues they may have.

Frequent Surveys: I will utilise frequent, targeted surveys and online polls to capture the collective opinion of a broad and diverse student body, not just those who attend meetings.

Visible Reporting: I will provide regular, accessible updates on Council decisions via digital channels to close the feedback loop and demonstrate how student input impacts University governance.

How do you stay up-to-date with everything that’s going on at the University?

I actively follow the University's and student association's Instagram and Facebook pages for real-time campus news, and will maintain close interaction with AUSA leadership and other student representatives to ensure I have a comprehensive understanding of student concerns and University developments.

Which University Council committee would you most want to follow closely?

I would most closely follow the Finance Committee. This committee plays a critical role in setting the University’s budget, overseeing financial strategy, and approving student fees. My focus is on ensuring fiscal decisions are equitable, transparent, and prioritise core student needs, such as mental health support and financial hardship assistance. The opportunity to directly influence resource allocation is what draws me to this committee.

In 50 words or fewer, what makes you stand out?

I offer proven postgraduate leadership and a pragmatic focus on financial equity. I am committed to transparency and will actively solicit feedback through regular surveys and office hours. Vote for me to ensure your Council Rep is an accessible, action-oriented advocate who will push for practical change and make your voice central to every strategic decision.