Deborah Randall

Residences Manager, Cardiff University

What do you enjoy most about working in student accommodation?

Having worked in student accommodation at Cardiff University for 19 years, what I enjoy most is being part of a student's journey during one of the biggest transitions of their life. Before joining higher education, I worked in hotels, hospitals and on cruise ships, but I was drawn to student accommodation because I wanted a role where I felt I could genuinely give something back.

There is nothing more rewarding than welcoming students at the start of the year, often nervous and unsure of what lies ahead, and then seeing them leave as confident, independent young people. Being able to help bridge the gap between home and independent living, while creating a supportive and inclusive environment, is something I am incredibly passionate about.

Can you provide details about a specific student accommodation project that you’ve been involved in, that you’re really proud of?

A project I am particularly excited about is a new biodiversity and wellbeing initiative that is currently being developed at Aberdare Hall. The aim is to create opportunities for students and staff to connect with nature, support biodiversity, and improve wellbeing through shared activities and community engagement.

We are currently collecting donated materials to make the project as sustainable as possible, planning gardening and creative garden-based sessions, and exploring external funding opportunities ahead of launching at the start of the new academic year. Working closely with our Residences Life team, we hope to engage at least 20 participants per session initially before expanding across North Campus and beyond.

As a keen gardener myself, with experience allotments, growing my own fruit and vegetables, and maintaining a cutting garden, this project brings together many of my personal interests with my professional passion for creating positive experiences for others. I am proud of its potential to improve both our campus environment and the wellbeing of our community.

What does ASRA mean to you? 

Although I am new to ASRA and have only recently attended my first committee meeting, ASRA already represents collaboration, shared learning and professional support.

I believe some of the best ideas come from bringing experienced professionals together to share challenges, successes and innovative approaches. As the new Wales representative, I am excited to learn from colleagues across the sector, contribute where I can, and help strengthen connections between accommodation professionals throughout Wales and beyond.

What is your best ASRA memory?

As I am just beginning my ASRA journey, my best memory so far is attending my first committee meeting and experiencing the enthusiasm, openness and willingness to share knowledge across the group.

It was inspiring to see so many people who are passionate about enhancing the student experience and committed to supporting one another. I am looking forward to building on those relationships and creating many more ASRA memories in the years ahead.

Thoughts on the future of accommodation? (general thoughts on what the future may hold, any challenges/opportunities, what you are looking forward to etc)

I believe the future of student accommodation will be shaped by community, wellbeing and sustainability. Students are looking for much more than just a place to live; they want environments where they feel connected, supported and able to thrive.

This presents exciting opportunities for accommodation teams to be creative and innovative in how we engage students and build those communities. I am particularly interested in how wellbeing initiatives, sustainability projects and opportunities for meaningful social interaction can become increasingly embedded within the accommodation experience.

While the sector will undoubtedly face challenges as student expectations continue to evolve, I am optimistic about the future. Accommodation professionals play a vital role in helping students succeed, and I look forward to seeing how our sector continues to develop, collaborate and create spaces where students can truly flourish.