Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your background and your area of study?
My name is Xinyu Chen, and I am currently a second-year Master of Professional Accounting student at Monash University. Before coming to Australia, I completed my undergraduate studies in Business Administration in China, and I also had some experience with Women’s Federation-related work in a local government setting.
Since joining Monash, I have enjoyed becoming more involved in the graduate student community, including through MGA volunteering and student leadership opportunities.
What is your role within the MGAEC, and what are you hoping to achieve over your term in office?
My new role within the MGAEC is Women’s Officer. During my term, I hope to support women graduate students by helping their voices, concerns and needs be heard. I am especially interested in promoting women’s wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging within the Monash graduate community.
One idea I would like to explore is organising women-focused fitness or strength training activities, potentially in collaboration with Monash Gym or qualified trainers. I think activities like this could help women feel more confident and comfortable using gym equipment, while also supporting physical health, independence and self-empowerment.
What motivated you to join the executive committee? What drives you to make a difference in your graduate student community?
I was motivated to join the executive committee because I have personally benefited from the support, opportunities and community that MGA provides. Through my experience as an MGA volunteer and volunteer leader, I have seen how meaningful it can be when students feel welcomed, supported and connected.
I wanted to contribute back to this community and use my role to help other graduate students. I hope to listen to students’ ideas and concerns, understand the difficulties they may face, and help bring these issues forward in a practical and constructive way.