Student representatives are the face of the student body, and advocate for student interests on and off campus.
Enrolled students can contact student representatives to discuss issues, concerns and ideas related to their studies and student experience.
If you are interested in becoming a student representative or want to know more about our activities, please send us an email.
Teaching and Learning Committee representatives
The School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work Teaching and Learning Committe meets 4 times per year and it’s an opportunity to bring student perspectives forward in relation to matters concerning teaching and learning in the School.
Abbey Bates
Dual Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Midwifery student - abbey.bates@uq.net.au
I am a final year Nursing and Midwifery student here at UQ. I have found my passion in Nursing and Midwifery and want to ensure that students are fully supported to fully embrace and make the most out of studying within the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work. I am motivated to contribute this committee and provide a voice for students to promote improvements in the student experience, especially in regards to learning and assessment, clinical placements and student supports. As your peer, I am here to advocate for our needs, so please contact me with any concerns or suggestions for improvements. I will do my best to represent the voice of students and promote positive changes for future teaching and learning at UQ.
Chris De Santo
Bachelor of Nursing student - c.desanto@uq.net.au
I've settled in Australia after about 12 years of traveling and living in various countries and working across multiple industries. I joined the Nursing program at UQ in 2022 as a returning student after degrees in Marine Biology and Aquaculture from the United States. During my time at UQ and through my class interactions with other students and friends, I heard several concerns that I shared which weren't seemingly being addressed, which is why I applied for the Student Rep position within HaBS so that we have a greater voice within our program. Getting involved is how you promote change, so please feel free to reach out if you need anything!
Martina O'Neill
Master of Nurse Practitioner student - Martina.oneill@uqconnect.edu.au
I am a first year Master of Nurse Practitioner student. I have previously completed two Bachelor Degrees and one Masters Degree. I am the most excited about this degree and my future career prospects within cancer care. Volunteering to be a student representative for my program cohort is important to me. My previous tertiary degrees were completed at other institutions so I have experienced all aspects of uni life whilst balancing family, life and work. I recognise the importance of being the voice and driving positive change is a privilege and I am passionate about working collaboratively to ensure the university experience is a positive and fulfilling time. Helen Keller once said "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much". Please do not hesitate to reach out via email to voice concerns or ideas about your university course or experience.
Atul Manoj
Master of Counselling student - atul.manoj@uqconnect.edu.au
As an international student, my journey has been filled with thrilling adventures and many limitless learning opportunities. The University has provided a captivating environment, allowing me to acquire knowledge from distinguished professors, interact with like-minded individuals, and forge connections with people from diverse cultures. This aspect has genuinely enriched my experience. One of the primary reasons I have chosen to become a student representative is my genuine desire to assist fellow students. Transitioning into university life, leaving behind the familiarity of home, and embarking on a journey miles away can be overwhelming. Therefore, I strongly believe in establishing a secure and welcoming space for students—a space where their concerns can be voiced, heard attentively, and duly considered.
Andrea Rivera
Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) student - andrea.rivera@uqconnect.edu.au
I am a fourth-year student studying a Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) program. Throughout my time here I have learned to be more compassionate and understanding through exposure to various opportunities and challenges. These experiences, for me, have reinforced the importance of communication and avdocating for those that need their voices heard. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as a student representative and assist you in any way I can. Please feel free to reach out to me or any of the other student representatives with any feedback or concerns. I am always available to chat in person or online.
HDR Representatives
The School HDR representatives sit on the NMSW Research Executive Committee and the HaBS Faculty HDR Committee. They facilitate weekly writing groups and a community of practice. They liaise regularly with the Director of HDR on student matters and work to enhance the student experience and professional development opportunities.
Sarah Walker
Ph.D. student - sarah.walker1@uq.edu.au
I am in my first year of a PhD within the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work. My background is in cancer care; I have worked as an RN in medical oncology and haematology, radiation and general surgery. I have completed Bachelors Degrees in both Nursing and Science (Anatomy and Structural Biology) and a Master of Bioethics. I am excited to be the student rep for the NMSW’s HDR community. I am a strong believer that peer support is invaluable in any situation and especially when attempting challenging tasks such as a higher degree! Please reach out via email with any feedback or concerns about your HDR experience.
Dimple Bharwani
Ph.D. student - d.bharwani@uq.edu.au
As a second year PhD student at the school of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work. I am exploring the phenomenon of ‘care’ for the marginalised Hijra/Kinner (a.k.a. transgender) community of India using a participatory methodology. Rooted in the spirit of co-creation, this project aims to facilitate movement from the community’s pain to possibilities. With a background in psychology spanning both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, I have had the opportunity to work in Human Resource and Organisation Development space, particularly in the mental health and anti-human trafficking sector. With growing interest in suicide prevention, and non-violent communication (NVC), I'm continuously learning the art of being present, listening deeply, and providing support in its simplest form.
Having experienced the power of nurturing communities, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to serve as a student representative for NMSW HDR students. The PhD journey can often feel isolating, yet within our shared struggles lie opportunities to forge meaningful connections. Together, let's create spaces—be it one-on-one dialogues or group settings— where each one feels heard, supported and belonged; where struggles are not shouldered alone, and little-wins are celebrated together.
Should you wish to discuss your PhD, support available within our school, or just about life in general, let's connect over a cup of tea. Feel welcome to reach out whenever you need.
As we co-navigate this journey, I very warmly welcome you to your very own HDR community at the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work.
Let’s walk this journey, together.