The Student Support Team is always here to help with personalised advice and information about university life, wellbeing, academic performance and study skills, student visas, UNSW procedures, financial management or if you need help but don't know where to go.

Our team of Student Support Advisors provide personal support and work with all students to promote the development of skills needed to navigate and succeed at university.

How to connect

Consultations

Book a 45 minute consultation with the advisor of your choice through our booking page. 

Face-to-face appointments are held in the John Goodsell Building. Virtual appointments will be over Zoom. The link is made available through the booking site just before the appointment time.

Book an appointment

If you are experiencing technical difficulties when booking or are unable to book please send an email.

If you require immediate support

If you require immediate support and you are feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, you can contact the following for free, confidential, and anonymous support:

For students in Australia:

  • Lifeline (24 hour): 13 11 14 phone line for crisis support and suicide prevention.
  • Mental Health Line (24 hour):
    1800 011 511 phone line for mental health acute care.

For students outside of Australia:


Location

John Goodsell Building (F20), Ground Floor


Meet the Advisors

Helen Craig
Helen Craig

How long have you been at UNSW?  I've been working as an advisor for more than 8 years, but have been a part of UNSW for much longer. I completed my studies here and lived on campus - some of the best times of my life.  

Favourite thing about my job: I love learning about each and every one of you, finding out what matters to you and working together to make university a successful and enjoyable time in your life. 

Stressbuster: When I'm not working, I'm finding somewhere new to explore, preferably including a lake or ocean swim and having the people I love and care around me. 

Michael Davidson

How long have you been at UNSW?  Since July 2017 (almost 12 months in the Medical Faculty as a Student Admin Officer and the rest as a Student Support Advisor) 

Favourite thing about my job : How rewarding it is, yet a great challenge at the same time. It is so beneficial to be able to help students on their journey and to guide, advise and support them in any way we can. 

Stressbuster: To listen to music or to get out and enjoy a walk before and after work to process the day and reflect. 

Nicole Zhang

How long have you been at UNSW? I joined the UNSW Student Support team in April, 2021. Previously, I worked three years as Student Advisor for UNSW Global who offer UNSW pathway courses to International Students

Favourite thing about my job: I enjoy forming the bond with students while guiding them through their requests and challenges. I love being supportive, resourceful, and inspiring to my students.

Stressbuster: I consider myself a Yogi and I have been practicing Yoga for almost 10 years. I forget all my troubles while I am standing on my Yoga mat. 

Pia Larsson
Pia Larsson

How long have you been at UNSW? I’ve been supporting students at UNSW since 2010, and at other universities in Australia and Sweden since 2002.

Favourite things about my job: There are so many, but being able to offer a students a place where they feel seen, heard, safe, and supported, and helping them navigate life or achieve their individual goals, is particularly meaningful.

Stressbuster: I reconnect with my body throughout the day to respond to its needs, tune into the good, spend time by the ocean, go for long runs,  practice yoga and listen to music or podcasts.

Tracy Ellis
Tracy Ellis

How long have you been at UNSW? I joined UNSW in August 2017 as a Student Academic Support Officer in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. I then moved to Equitable Learning Services in January 2020 before joining the Student Support team in March 2022.

Favourite things about my job: Helping students to navigate the challenges of life through discovering their strengths and developing their skills for university and beyond. I feel privileged to offer a safe space for students to share their struggles and successes.

Stressbuster: I love long walks in nature and will break out into a jog for an extra boost of endorphins. Practicing mindfulness, cuddles with my dog, and listening to music are also great ways to manage the ‘noise’ of external stressors for me.

Kim Carmody

How long have you been at UNSW? I’ve been with the University for 2 years in another role and recently joined the Student Support Team.

Favourite things about my job: the opportunity to meet and work with people from all walks of life as well as providing students with information to help inform their decision-making.

Stressbuster: Having a laugh! Laughter really is the best medicine. 

Alanna Yao

How long have you been at UNSW? I joined the Student Support Team in August 2024. Prior to this role, I spent two years as a Student Wellbeing Advisor for UNSW College, which offers pathway courses to international students. I completed my studies here in 2019 and lived on campus. I love this university and enjoy my time being around UNSW.

Favourite things about my job: One of my favourite aspects of being a Student Support Advisor is the opportunity to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and help them navigate their academic and personal challenges. I find great satisfaction in helping students discover their strengths and build resilience. It’s incredibly fulfilling to grow alongside the students and witness their development and success.

Stressbuster: When I’m not at work, I like to go for walks along the beach or in the National Park. I also enjoy Karaoke, go-karting, playing badminton, volleyball, and swimming. These activities help me unwind and recharge, so I can be at my best for the students I support.

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