Inside the Third Space

12: Christmas reflection edition

In this special episode, the Inside the Third Space team reflects on how the podcast began, what they have learned across a year of conversations, and how their growing community is shaping third space identity at UNSW. They revisit key moments from past guests, unpack shared challenges and light-bulb insights, and look ahead to strengthening cross-faculty collaboration. Their message for fellow third spacers is clear: connection matters, stay curious, and keep building the work together.

11: Neda Chepinchikj

Our guest is Dr Neda Chepinchikj, implementation manager for English language development at UNSW. Drawing on her background in applied linguistics and years supporting students with English as an additional language, Neda reflects on working at the intersection of teaching, research, and institutional strategy. She speaks about navigating the central–faculty divide, building trust with academics, and the collaborative labour behind embedding language development across programs. For those finding their place in the third space, her message is steady: know what the work demands, embrace the variety, and stay patient — real impact takes time.

10: Aaron Saint-James

Our guest is Aaron Saint-James, Research Officer and co-founder of Diversified at UNSW. Drawing on his experiences as a mature-age, neurodivergent student and professional, Aaron reflects on navigating higher education from the margins and creating pathways for inclusion and change. He speaks about the instability of casual work, the hidden weight of invisible labour, and the purpose he’s found in connecting community through equity and neuro-inclusion. For anyone finding their footing in the third space, his message is clear: don’t wait for the system to make space for you — carve your own.

9. Emina Abroon

Our guest is Emina Abroon, Educational Developer in the Faculty of Law and Justice at UNSW. With experience across IT, educational technology, and course design, Emina reflects on her path through multiple “third space” roles across UNSW and Western Sydney University. She discusses the challenges of being seen as “just the ed tech person,” the importance of blending pedagogy with technology, and the value of networks and community in shaping identity. For newcomers to the third space, her advice is simple: explore widely, ride the wave, and find where you fit.

8: Matthew Oxley

Our guest is Matthew Oxley, Media Producer and Trainer in the Faculty of Medicine and Health at UNSW. With a background in acting and filmmaking, Matt now supports academics and professionals to share their expertise through media. He reflects on the role of audiovisual technologies in teaching and the value of embracing the “third space”, being aware, authentic, and comfortable in the middle ground between academics and students.