Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your area of study?
I'm Akshita Sinha, a first-year Masters of Counselling student at Monash University. I have long felt a deep interest in Psychology and Counselling, even though I only had the opportunity to formally study it during my bachelor’s degree in India. Along with my academic interests, I also love writing poems and have been writing since I was 13.
My interest in Psychology and Literature helps me understand the different facets of humans, power structures, hierarchies and human expression in the face of challenges. And for all my academic knowledge, I have learnt that at the core of it, we all strive for connection, kindness and compassion.
What is your new role within the MGAEC, and what are you hoping to achieve over your term in office?
I have been elected as the President for the 2026–27 term, and I am truly honoured to be given this opportunity. Understanding the inner workings and the level of detail involved behind every event and initiative has been incredibly eye-opening.
I am excited to bridge the gap between ideas and their successful implementation and execution, while also increasing awareness of and improving accessibility to existing resources. I look forward to collaborating with individuals both within and beyond the MGA to ensure that people’s voices are elevated and heard.
What motivated you to join the executive committee? What drives you to make a difference in your graduate committee?
At a fundamental level, I want to help people in whatever way I can. I have always believed in kindness and in the idea that no one should feel alone, not in moments of happiness, but most importantly, not during times of struggle. I understand the importance of community and the profound difference it can make, even if it is just one person reminding us that we are not alone. Being able to offer that support on an institutional and systemic level can create a deeply meaningful impact.
Our graduate cohort is incredibly diverse- socially, financially, and in terms of lived experiences. This includes carers and parents, individuals living alone, and those re-entering education or the workforce. I am genuinely committed to ensuring that all of these voices and needs are heard, and to working towards providing meaningful support and relief to graduate students in whichever way possible.