Michelle Matson interview

Kia ora, I’m Michelle Matson. I’m a distance student studying a Bachelor of Arts, based in Northland, Aotearoa New Zealand. Alongside my studies, I balance work, family life, and other commitments, which has given me a practical perspective on how Massey’s decisions affect students in very real ways.

The University Council is Massey’s governing body. It’s responsible for the long-term direction of the university, including approving strategy, overseeing financial sustainability, managing risk, and ensuring the university is well governed.

As the Student Elected Member, your role is to bring the student perspective into Council discussions. You contribute to decision-making, ask questions, and help Council understand how its decisions will impact students across all campuses and modes of study.

Council meets around six times a year, along with a few additional strategy days. The Student Elected Member is also a member of the Finance and Assurance sub-committee of Council, and there are an additional five half-days of meetings associated with that. Each meeting requires some preparation, including reading papers and considering the issues to be discussed.

The commitment is meaningful but manageable. Some weeks are busier than others, particularly around meeting times, but overall it can be balanced alongside study, work, and other responsibilities with good planning.

Yes. The Student Elected Member is paid, recognising the time, preparation, and contribution required for the role.

You’re not expected to come in knowing everything. There is onboarding, background briefings, and strong support from staff and other Council members. Questions are encouraged.

Being part of high-level discussions that genuinely shape the future of Massey has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve also really valued seeing how much respect Council has for the student voice.

Learning to think long-term. Council decisions aren’t about quick wins. They’re about what’s best for the university over many years. That requires patience and a willingness to sit with complexity.

No. Curiosity, willingness to learn, and the confidence to ask thoughtful questions matter more than prior governance experience.

If you care about Massey’s future, want to represent students, and are interested in developing your leadership skills, I’d encourage you to consider putting your name forward.

You don’t have to be an expert to make a valuable contribution. If you’re interested and prepared to engage thoughtfully, this role will stretch you and reward you in ways you might not expect.