Today, on Better Student Leaders, I’m joined by Paul Majumdar — University Council Member at Deakin University, National Executive of the National Union of Students, and President of Deakin Social Club. In just three years, Paul has gone from a first-year student running a small 50-member club to leading one of Deakin’s largest student communities, representing over 60,000 students at the university’s highest level, and serving nationally through the NUS.

In this episode, Paul shares how saying yes to opportunities changed his life — from a chance workshop that sparked a leadership journey to building trust, growing community, and learning to communicate in the language of governance. His story is proof that student leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about courage, connection, and consistency.

Impactful Lessons and Quotes

“I said yes to every opportunity that came my way — even when I didn’t have time. That’s what changed everything.”

“You can’t wait for confidence to lead. You lead first, and confidence follows.”

“To represent 60,000 students, you need to learn how to speak the language of governance — and still tell real student stories.”

“When students feel disconnected, it’s not apathy — it’s a lack of engagement. We need to make university life feel human again.”

“Leadership isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up, saying yes, and learning as you go.”

Key Sections & Timestamps

00:00 – From 50 Members to 450: The Start of a Leadership Journey

Paul shares how attending a Campus Consultancy workshop transformed his club’s strategy and helped Deakin Social Club become the largest on campus.

05:10 – The Power of Saying Yes

Why saying “yes” to opportunities — even when life is busy — opened every door that followed.

08:30 – Building Belonging: How to Engage Students in a Distracted World

Paul breaks down practical steps for creating community: understanding student needs, changing your pitch, and showing social proof through storytelling.

13:00 – Winning the University Council Election

How Paul campaigned, earned trust, and became Deakin University’s student representative on council — and what he’s learned from the governance table.

18:45 – What Students Care About in 2025

From employability anxiety to cost of living and low engagement, Paul shares the issues shaping the modern student experience.

24:00 – Bridging Science and Society

A Biomedical Science major in politics? Paul explains how scientific thinking strengthens his advocacy and leadership.

28:30 – Final Advice: Be the Student Who Says Yes

Paul’s closing message to future leaders — how mentorship, courage, and relentless curiosity create better student leaders.

✅ Share your biggest takeaway on LinkedIn with #BetterStudentLeaders and tag myself at @Josh Farr as well as Jess at @Paulasta Majumdar