September 4, 2025
Meet Student Representative at Sydney CBD Campus, Karan Roshanlal Golani
Can you introduce yourself and your role on the Student Advisory Council (SAC) UOW?
I’m Karan Golani, the Sydney CBD Campus Representative on the Student Advisory Council (SAC) UOW. I also serve as Chair of the Regional & Metropolitan Subcommittee and as an Executive Member of the SSAF Subcommittee. I’m an international student from India, currently studying a Master of Professional Accounting (Advanced), a two-year program.
Can you share a little about your academic journey and what brought you to UOW?
I completed my Bachelor’s in Commerce with majors in Accounting and Auditing, which gave me a strong foundation in my field. Wanting to further my studies, I was drawn to Australia for its high-quality education system and vibrant student life. UOW stood out for its reputation and supportive learning environment, and studying in Sydney also offered the chance to experience the city’s beautiful scenery and landmarks alongside my academic journey.
What motivated you to become a Campus Representative?
My motivation came from my journey as a mentee and later as a mentor in the Business International Peer Mentor Network (BIPMN) program. Through these experiences, I interacted with many students and gained a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. Being someone who genuinely enjoys supporting others, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to step up and represent them. My earlier role as an International Student Ambassador for the City of Sydney Council reinforced that passion. Knowing that the SAC is UOW’s peak advisory body to the Vice-Chancellor inspired me to step forward and ensure Sydney Campus students have a strong voice.
What is the Student Advisory Council (SAC) UOW and why does it matter?
The Student Advisory Council (SAC) UOW is the university’s peak student body that works closely with leadership to ensure student voices shape decisions. As the Sydney Campus Representative on SAC, I bring local concerns and ideas to the wider council. I also serve as Chair of the Regional & Metropolitan Subcommittee and as an Executive member of the SSAF Subcommittee, where I work with peers to ensure that student voices guide decisions on funding, services, and campus initiatives. In particular, we provide collective feedback on how the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) — which all current students contribute to — is utilised and allocated. This ensures the fee is spent optimally to best support the student experience, including vital support services such as careers and housing, as well as events, clubs, and societies.
How do you engage with students to understand and represent their views?
I make myself approachable at student events, in classes, and around campus. Students can also connect with me through the SAC website, email, or even through my socials. Keeping communication simple and open is the best way to make sure everyone feels comfortable sharing feedback.
How does SAC ensure that student voices are heard and translated into meaningful changes at UOW?
Getting involved with SAC is about more than serving — it’s about contributing to real change at UOW. SAC works closely with university leadership on areas like SSAF spending, teaching and learning, and campus life, while also promoting collaboration through Students as Partners. SAC is here to listen and act. Whether it’s academics, events, or policy, your feedback matters. The more voices that join in, the stronger and more inclusive our UOW community becomes.
What advice would you give to students who want to take on leadership roles at UOW?
Go for it. UOW offers opportunities like SAC where you can directly influence decisions impacting academic life, student services, and campus activities. Opportunities like these provide invaluable learning experiences, resilience, and real-world skills. Taking on leadership roles is never wasted effort; it’s personal and professional growth in action.
What’s the best way for students to reach you?
I’m often around the Sydney CBD Campus and try to join as many student events as I can. Students are also welcome to contact me directly by email at krg930@uowmail.edu.au.