2021 Student Engagement - The University of Newcastle - Australia

2021 Student Engagement - The University of Newcastle - Australia

out(fit)

out(fit) is a community engagement initiative of the University of Newcastle, through which female students from the built environment discipline volunteer their specialised skills to benefit the community of Newcastle and the Hunter Region.

We do this by engaging in hands-on design and build projects, primarily for underrepresented communities, with a focus on creating spaces for disadvantaged women and children. By providing access to design services for those who would not ordinarily benefit from this professional assistance, we can have a tremendous impact on daily lives.

out(fit)’s mission is three-fold: To promote and support women who are seeking careers in built environment professions; to provide a supportive place for students to learn hands-on design and building skills; and to make a difference in the lives of women and children in need through improving their built environments.

Top 3 learnings:

1. By allowing students to gain new skills in a supported environment, our female graduates are confident when joining a predominately male dominated workforce. 
2. Contributing to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities, working with diverse stakeholders builds empathy and broadens our student’s experience.
3. Through volunteering without(fit) students develop skills in Leadership, Communication, Self-Awareness and gain the ability to think critically about life and future decisions. 

Videos

• Video #1 (click to hide)