In this episode, Cassandra Iannucci and Alex Green explore how student support programs are paving the way for more inclusive and equitable university systems.  Read more about Cassandra and Alex's work here: https://this.deakin.edu.au/career/how-student-support-programs-can-transform-universities/Click here to watch a video of this episode. Click here to view the episode transcript. Chapters00:00 – Introduction00:36 – What is Students as Partners?01:33 – Cassandra’s Journey02:57 – Alex’s Story04:18 – Authentic Partnership in Action07:01 – Matching Students and Staff09:32 – Impact Moments11:00 – Shifting Attitudes in Higher Education11:34 – How Projects Begin13:07 – Voices from the Classroom Podcast14:46 – Students Mentoring Staff17:15 – Why Equity Matters18:25 – Avoiding Tokenism21:06 – Removing Barriers for Students24:01 – Lived Experience as a Catalyst25:43 – Career Impact26:14 – Tangible Changes Across Deakin33:36 – Normalising Partnership35:59 – Why Belonging Matters39:02 – Skills and Confidence42:00 –Proud Moments45:36 – What Staff Should Know About Students47:00 – Closing ReflectionsPlease note: The individual views and opinions expressed in this video do not necessarily reflect those of Deakin as an organisation. Deakin is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both freedom of speech and academic freedom are vigorously upheld. Our community thrives on diverse opinions and perspectives, with open-minded inquiry and respectful disagreement essential to our university culture.