Meet some new Residential Leaders

From rural Tasmania to Zimbabwe and everywhere in between, our Residential leaders come from diverse backgrounds and bring with them a range of interests and personalities. Our RLs model our RESPECT values and receive comprehensive training including topics such as respectful relationships, bystander intervention, mental health and leadership.

They play an incredibly important role in our communities, providing transition support and assistance, event management and mentoring to residents throughout their time on campus.

Meet some of our new RLs for 2022!

Melbourne Burwood Campus – Emily Clark

Hailing from rural Tasmania, Emily is a keen photographer majoring in Psychology while studying a Bachelor of Arts.

After some initial challenges adjusting to life in Melbourne, Emily found that the Burwood RLs helped her to engage in the programming offered on Res, enabling her to settle in and feel at home on campus. This has inspired her to become an RL herself.

When asked what advice she would give to incoming students, Emily says,

Try and put yourself out there. I met some really nice people and that helped me get out of my comfort zone a bit and gave me new experiences. That definitely helped me.

Geelong Waterfront Campus – Phoebe Weichelt

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy student Phoebe is passionate about being an RL in 2022, looking forward to using the insights gained in 2021 to help incoming students settle into Uni life and make the most of the new friendships, experiences and memories that come from life on Res.

Phoebe encourages new residents to take it at their own pace, saying,

There are a lot of events offered on Residence, and it’s important to understand that although all these might be new and exciting, it’s important to take time for yourself and go at your own pace. Do what feels right for you.

Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus – Jack Harcoan

Bachelor of Psychology student Jack loves life on Res. From enjoying a game of Res favourite ‘9 square’ on the village green to serving up bacon and eggs for fellow ressies, Jack has a welcoming energy and just loves meeting new people.

When asked what advice he would give to people considering life on Res, Jack says,

I know it can be daunting at first, but you are going to love it. It’s definitely been the best year of my life. Res is such a great way to meet some long lasting friends.

Warrnambool Campus – David Jaricha

Travelling from rural Zimbabwe to Warrnambool to study might sound like a huge challenge to many, but new RL David has taken it in his stride.

With family connections in the Warrnambool area, David has settled into life on Res and is a key part of the student community. He is studying a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Agribusiness, and one day hopes to return to his home country and help his family’s sugarcane farming business to thrive.

When not studying, David loves to go ten-pin bowling, take in the local scenery and head to the beach. He is very much looking forward to being an RL, and says,

To be honest, it means a lot in terms of taking leadership opportunities. It’s a lifetime opportunity to lead others, develop yourself and that means a lot to me.

Considering life on campus in 2022? Read more about our safe, inclusive community and support services offered on Res in the blogs below!