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.
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 - Email Abbey
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.
Martina O'Neill
Master of Nurse Practitioner student - Email Martina
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.
Uttanka Patel
Bachelor of Social Work (Hons) student - Email Uttanka
I am a fourth year in the Bachelor of Social Work program. I have really enjoyed my time studying here at UQ. The degree has taught me a great deal about working with people and helped me appreciate the value of compassionate, caring discussions. A highlight for me was my rural placement, where I was able to learn a lot about rural communities and the value of community practice. I am excited to be a student representative; if you have any feedback or concerns, I am 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.
Dimple Bharwani
Ph.D. student - Email Dimple
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.