UNSW Engineering/Commerce student Doha Goreishi has won an 'Outstanding Senior PASS Leader' award from the Australasian PASS Alliance. This award recognises her dedication and impactful guidance within the Peer-Assisted Study Session (PASS) program, which she has participated in for more than two years.

Our Student Communications Intern, Louise, caught up with Doha to chat about all things PASS. 

  • PASS  is a student-led, collaborative learning program where students work together to tackle challenging course content, develop study strategies and build confidence in a supportive environment. Unlike traditional tutorials, PASS isn't about being lectured at; it's a space where students actively engage, discuss concepts and learn from each other.

    Students should consider attending because it's not just about improving your marks (though that's a bonus!); it's about gaining deeper understanding, making connections, and realising that they're not alone in their learning journey. Plus, it's a low-pressure way to ask questions and develop problem-solving skills that go beyond university.

  • What drew me to the role was the idea of collaborative learning and creating a space where students could engage with their studies in a more interactive way. I've always been passionate about breaking down complex concepts and making learning more accessible, so PASS felt like a natural fit.

    Over the past two years, I've learned that being a great leader isn't about having all the answers. Instead, it's about facilitating discussions, guiding problem-solving, and creating an environment where students feel comfortable exploring ideas together. I've also developed stronger communication and adaptability skills, learning how to adjust my approach based on different students' needs. More than anything, it's reinforced the idea that learning is most effective when it's shared.

  • It's honestly a huge honour, especially because PASS is something I've been so passionate about. More than anything, it's a reflection of the incredible students I've worked with and the supportive PASS team that makes this program what it is.

    This award is also a reminder of how impactful peer learning can be. It's easy to think of university as an individual journey, but the reality is, we learn best when we learn together. Knowing that I've helped students feel more confident in their studies means everything to me.

  • Go for it! You don't need to be the top student or have all the answers. What matters most is your willingness to support others, foster collaboration, and keep learning yourself.

    Being a PASS Leader has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my degree. It's helped me grow in ways I never expected, from communication and teamwork to confidence and leadership. Plus, leadership roles open so many doors, not just academically but professionally too.

    So if you're even slightly considering it, take the leap. You'll gain so much more than you expect.


Last edited on 05 March 2025

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