Nico Edillo
Bachelor of Arts (Sociology major) and Bachelor of Laws
UNE Student Council International Representative
What are you studying?
I'm just over halfway through my degree in Bachelor of Arts majoring in Sociology and Laws. I am also living and studying on-campus at Wright Village.
What is the UNE Student Council and what does your role entail?
The UNE Student Council is essentially a bridge between students and the broader UNE Community. I am one of the international student representatives and my position entails, among other general UNESC stuff, collecting information from my co-international students and advocating in their behalf.
Would you recommend students be involved with the UNE Council? If so, why?
I really recommend UNE students to be involved with the UNESC because it is a great way to voice our concerns and suggestions. In addition, it also acts as an avenue for collaboration and gives that sense of belonging to the wider university community.
What is your background and what brought you to study at UNE?
I am an international student from the Philippines and what brought me to study at UNE is its reputation for student experience. I believe going to uni is not just about studying but also about the experience of being a student and doing things outside the scope of the curricular.
What would you like to do after your studies?
With all honesty, there is still no definitive answer to this question! But I can see myself just riding waves and seeing where it takes me.
What have been your biggest achievements and challenges in your study journey so far? Who/what has helped you along the way?
One of my biggest achievements in my study journey so far is surviving the first year of university. I think the first year of uni is the hardest part because you need to familiarise yourself with a lot of things—from learning how to properly cite to getting used to living alone. However, what made those challenges a bit easier to handle is the support that UNE gives, such as the all-in-one question hub of AskUNE.
What has been your favourite unit so far?
My favourite unit so far would be either SOCY100 or SOCY110. Both units gave me a glimpse of the beauty of sociology and exposed me to the hidden dynamics that operate in our society. The thing that I liked is that these units offer a chance to think outside the nitty-gritty of academics and let you explore what is beyond.
What have you learnt about yourself through university?
I have learnt I can go outside my comfort zone and to try things that my past self would see as ridiculous. I was very shy and introverted before, but now I find myself being more active and engaging with more people such as through joining the UNESC.
Do you study around hobbies and other commitments?
Besides studying, I also work casually at Maccas and belong in extra-curricular organisations such as the UNESC. I also like cafe hopping with my girlfriend and recording random stuff with my camcorder.
Is there any advice you might give to other uni students, or advice you would give to your younger self?
I have learned throughout my journey that it is never wrong to ask questions. Besides AskUNE, I realised that everyone in UNE is very accommodating and will not be bothered by your questions. If you feel that asking a question would help you, please reach out.
