Getting to know... Helen Forbes-Mewett

Name: Dr Helen Forbes-Mewett
Title: Australian Postdoctoral Fellow and Lecturer in Sociology
Faculty: Arts
Department: School of Political and Social Inquiry 
Campus: Clayton 

How long have you worked at Monash?
For a total of 18 years. I began working at Monash as an administrative officer in a research centre and then began studying part-time leading to full-time study before pursuing an academic career. 

Where did you work prior to starting at the University?
I worked for a member of parliament – it was incredibly interesting. 

What do you like best about your role?
Research – it is very exciting and rewarding and does not seem like work to me. It is great to take new findings into the classroom. Students really enjoy hearing about new studies, especially if they are ‘hot off the press’. Also, I am lucky to be working with a great group of people. 

Why did you choose your current career path?
It just seemed to fall into place. After returning to study as a mature-age student, an opportunity arose to contribute to a research project and it took off from there.   

What research/projects are you currently working on and what does it involve?
I am in the final stages of a major study looking at international student safety and crime. It has involved conducting 140 interviews across Australia, the UK and the US with students and other key informers, including police, security and university personnel, counsellors, legal representatives and others. The findings are currently being analysed and will soon be published. A book has been contracted and a manuscript is currently being developed with colleagues. 

What is your favourite place in the world and why?
Aberdeen in Scotland. Just like it says in the song, it is the prettiest town I’ve ever seen. The Forbes clan originated in Aberdeen, so maybe that is also why I like it so much. I also love Oxford University, the little streets and buildings are captivating. 

What is your favourite place to eat and why?
Aux Batifolles – a little French restaurant in North Fitzroy. It’s really quirky and the food is great.   

What is the best piece of advice you have received?
My father always said, ‘Never give up!’  He said it in a humorous and dramatic way, which makes it all the more memorable. 

Tell us something about yourself that your colleagues wouldn’t know?
My childhood was spent in the country, riding horses, climbing trees and refusing to wear pink dresses. I love listening to Joan Baez, especially when I am driving. I think that’s enough information.