Michelle Matson.
As a business owner, mother and lifestyle blocker, Michelle has a deep appreciation for the freedom and flexibility that distance study provides, helping her balance multiple responsibilities while achieving her goals. Her passion for the distance learning offering played a big part in her decision to stand for election as the student representative.
“It’s a big step for me in student leadership terms, as I haven’t even been a class rep! I’m both nervous and excited, but I wanted to get involved to ensure that the distance offering remains practical, relevant and accessible. Massey is widely known as the best university for distance study, and this reputation is something we should strive to keep. The practicality of the delivery mode has allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a high school English teacher, all while still caring for my family, my farm and my business.”
Having experienced the benefits of distance education firsthand, Michelle says she is committed to ensuring all students have access to the study modes and delivery formats that best support their personal and professional goals.
“I didn’t have the opportunity to attend university right after high school, in fact, I didn’t even finish high school. So having the option to study via distance and chase my dreams as an adult, while raising my children, means the world to me. I want this to remain possible for everyone who didn’t or couldn’t study at a tertiary level when young.”
Michelle and her husband have been successfully running their own business for the past five years, drawing on Michelle’s extensive experience within the operations sector. She believes the skills she’s developed will be invaluable as she takes on her new role on the Council.
“The most important lessons I’ve learnt are time management, efficiency and patience. You’ll often find me planning ahead to ensure everything gets done – I’ve taken multi-tasking to another dimension in order to juggle life! I am also blessed with having a loving and supportive husband who can take the reins when needed.”
Looking forward to her term, Michelle says she’s eager to learn more about how Massey operates and how decisions are made at the Council level.
“Seeing all the changes this year, I felt confused and wanted to understand the ‘why’ behind those decisions. We’re all part of this university, and I knew I wanted to get involved to make a difference for students. I’m also excited to experience campus life, since as a distance student, I’ve never even stepped foot on a Massey campus.”
As she steps into the role, Michelle is determined to bring her personal values and principles to the table to guide her decisions.
“Is it good for the students? Is it good for the community? And is it practical, while still being financially sustainable? I’ll try to tick as many of these boxes as possible while making decisions. I can’t speak for all students, but I’m ready to put in the work to find out what the students of Massey truly need.”