Introducing Jay Borrott

Seven questions for a student president

Jay Borrott describes himself as a bridge builder connecting students on the Lake Macquarie campus with the services offered by the university. The primary teacher-in-training is president of the Avondale Students’ Association this year. Both student and leader are roles Jay did not imagine filling, as he explains in this interview.

Why did you choose to study at Avondale?
I never planned to come. Growing up in the area, I dreamed of experiencing the blessings of distant lands once finishing school. Evidently, this isn’t how God wanted the plans for my life to unfold. I started a different degree at a different university but didn’t enjoy it. A chance meeting with the primary course convenor in the supermarket the night before classes started convinced me to enrol in the most creative degree imaginable, primary teaching. With plans to transfer out at the end of the year, I ended up enjoying the energetic intensity that is the primary classroom so much, I am now set to become a teacher at the end of the year.

What makes you smile (and why)?
When someone visits me at home and feels comfortable enough to help themselves to the food in the pantry.

Who is your hero?
The me of tomorrow. The best way to grow, and to do so by encouraging yourself, is to consider the person you’d like to be tomorrow.

Summarise in one sentence the most important thing you’ve learnt in life.
God will put people in your life when you need them; you just have to be open to unexpected friendships.

What advice would you give to a new student at Avondale?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Returning students are just as coy about you as you are about them.

Why did you run for student president?
I accepted the challenge because I see value in connection. I’m passionate about bridging the gaps between students and their experience with the Avondale Student Life team, which works tirelessly to meet student needs.

How will you measure success as student president?
If I can change one thing that is remembered and implemented by leadership teams in years to come, I’ll have succeeded in leaving a mark that contributes to the continual experience of students at Avondale.