The Dean is responsible for overseeing the daily management of all aspects college life, supporting both the students and residential staff in making sure the college is safe, enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Rasheed Khan

Dean

As an international student from Pakistan, I understand through my own experience that adjusting to life in a foreign land, creating new social support network and navigating a different academic system can be quite challenging. I was a student at the University Hall in 2014, and quickly realised how much I value what collegiate life has to offer to students in similar situation. Wanting to give back, I took up staff roles within the community (as a Resident Fellow and Deputy Dean).

I became Dean at Fig Tree in 2016. Fig Tree has a unique identity of being a most culturally diverse and progressive college. It provides a rare opportunity for Australian and overseas students to share and learn from one another.

The ability to mentor and support students is what truly drives me. During my many years of involvement in these communities, I’ve witnessed students start their journey as uncertain first years and left as confident leaders, who will no doubt excel in their areas of study. Supporting them through this journey and watching them grow is what makes this job so rewarding.

What cheers you up?

Good food in good company!

What is something you’ve been really proud of lately?

Getting back to my exercise regime.

What was the last picture you took on your phone?

A friend and his wife, cutting their wedding anniversary cake.

How do you spend your free time?

Hiking, bush-walking, and doing nothing!

What sound or noise do you love?

Folk Sufi music.  

The Deputy Dean is responsible for assisting the Dean of the College in the daily management of the college, as well as fulfilling the role of Resident Fellow in terms of providing academic and pastoral support to a group of students.

Sakshi Talaulikar

Deputy Dean

Hi, I'm Sakshi, your Deputy Dean for Fig Tree Hall. Just like all of you, I studied at UNSW myself, doing a double Bachelor of Actuarial Studies and Commerce. This year, I'll be around to help guide you through your college and university life, providing pastoral care, academic support, and additional advice and resources as needed.

In my spare time you might find me reading, relaxing, or heading to the gym. I'm super excited to meet everyone and can't wait for a great 2023 together!

 

 

Resident and Student Fellows

Resident fellows (RFs) are staff members of UNSW and typically in their final years of study or already holding a degree. RFs live with the students on their floors and provide daily academic and pastoral support. RFs aren’t teachers, but they’re a little like a supportive older sibling with loads of experience to pass on and a willingness to help guide the residents.

A Student Fellows (SF) is assigned every year in Fig Tree Hall College. They’re a volunteer senior student whose role is to create and run a range of proactive wellbeing initiatives for the entire college. The SF works closely with the RF’s, Deputy Dean and Dean, ensuring the wellbeing of all residents is top of mind.

Fig Tree RF  

I met some of my closest friends in FTH; we had fun celebrating different holidays, cooking food from around the world & teaching others about our respective cultures. FTH has a culturally-enriching environment surrounded by wonderful staff & residents!

Angie Synn