Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your area of study?
I'm Anusha Shrivastava and I'm currently pursuing a Double Degree Master of International Development Practice at Monash University. Previously, I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honours at Gargi College, University of Delhi. I am currently serving as the President of the Asia-Australia Youth Association Monash University Chapter, and as the Editor-in-Chief of
Paradigm, the annual production of MIDP Association.
As former Director of The Covering PM and Research Assistant at The Geostrata, I edited "Electoral Reforms in India" Report, performed communication and advocacy functions at the BRICS Youth Energy Summit 2023 in Johannesburg, interviewed dignitaries and inspiring leaders, and also published in-depth research on geopolitical issues. I was recommended for the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung iLEAD Rising Leaders Programme 2024 and the prestigious Phillip N. Truluck Center for Leadership Development Fellowship organised by The Heritage Foundation
Academy, USA during my tenure.
A selected delegate for the Harvard College Project for Asian and International Relations 2023 Asia Conference, I have always advocated for youth leadership and advocacy. My belief in the significance of youth development led me to volunteer as an Instructor for TISS’ Project Aapyayata that provide psychosocial support to children in Juvenile Observation Homes, and leading Program Development & Execution at EdJustice Foundation, where campaigns for public education reform in India were designed. Additionally, I founded and operationalised the EdClimate Program to instill awareness about climate-change among school children.
A proud Indian, I share an immeasurable love for food and trying the so-called weirdest cuisines. This is exactly the kind of nouveau and fresh spirit that I aspire to bring to the MGAEC.
What is your new role within the MGAEC, and what are you hoping to achieve over your term in office?
The responsibility of representing over 30,000 graduate students at the highest possible level at Monash is indeed daunting, and also one that I intend to take very seriously. I see every vote cast in the ballot as trust, a trust that each graduate student has placed in me, in each one of the MGA representatives, and in our collective capability to lead with integrity, respect and power.
My role as an International Students’ Officer shall duly prioritize the strong and rightful representation of foreign students’ voices. I want to enable each graduate student at Monash University to call it their home. My focus areas are based on three broad pillars, which include reinforcing professional engagements and industry networking, building approachability and engagement for the MGA among students, and implementing small but impactful measures for enhancing student inclusivity.
I recognise that even the smallest of initiatives can make a huge difference. I believe that together, we can make the MGA capable of negotiating directly with the highest executives for improving the experience and worth of the international graduate students’ university life at Monash University.
What motivated you to join the executive committee? What drives you to make a difference in your graduate student community?
As an international student, I am well aware of the varied limitations on professional opportunities and financial burden that many of us are bound by. The need for stronger career support and networking has never been felt more strongly. Hence, I believe in creating a more inclusive and
supportive environment where graduate students have ample opportunities to succeed, both academically and professionally.
My motivation to join the executive committee stems from my passion towards youth advocacy and leadership. The significance of a coordinated and well-connected student association along with the impact it has in shaping our collective futures cannot be overstated at this juncture. Thus, as part of the Monash Graduate Association, I strive to make positive change within our graduate student community with a special focus on the issues faced by international students.