Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your area of study?
My name is Viktoriia Ignateva, and I am a Master of Artificial Intelligence student in the Faculty of Information Technology. Before moving into AI, I completed a Graduate Diploma in Psychology after previously studying Psychology with Honours. My academic journey has been anything but linear, and I believe that is one of my greatest strengths. Combining psychology with AI has allowed me to approach technology from a human-centred perspective, always asking not only what technology can do, but who it should serve and how it can genuinely improve people's lives.
Outside my studies, I work as a Teaching Associate and have been involved in several health technology research projects at Monash. I also enjoy building communities and connecting people, whether by leading student organisations, hosting AI conversations on my podcast, or mentoring students just beginning their own journeys in technology.
What is your role within the MGAEC, and what are you hoping to achieve over your term in office?
As the General Rep, I hope to strengthen the connection between graduate students and the University by ensuring that students' voices translate into meaningful improvements. Having previously represented graduate students on the University Education Committee, I have seen how constructive advocacy can influence policies and improve the student experience.
During my term, I want to continue advocating for issues that matter to graduate students, particularly support for international postgraduate students, student safety and well-being, including the university's response to gender-based violence, and more opportunities for professional development and networking. I also hope to improve communication so that students are more aware of the resources and opportunities already available to them.
What motivated you to join the executive committee? What drives you to make a difference in your graduate student community?
Throughout my time at Monash, I have experienced both the incredible opportunities the university offers and the challenges that graduate students often face. Coming to Australia without speaking English, changing careers into AI, and balancing study with work and family responsibilities taught me how important community and support can be. Many graduate students, particularly international students, feel isolated or unsure where to seek help, and I know what that feels like.
What motivates me is the opportunity to help build a graduate community where students feel connected, represented, and supported. I believe that meaningful change happens when people feel heard, and I want every graduate student to know that their experiences, challenges, and ideas matter. If I can help make even one student's journey a little easier than mine was, then I know I've made a worthwhile contribution.