Monash Arts student youngest elected Deputy Mayor in Glen Eira’s history
Meet Luca Ragni, Monash University Bachelor of Law/Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics double degree student, and the newly elected Deputy Mayor of Glen Eira for the 2024/25 term – the youngest Deputy Mayor in Glen Eira’s history!
Councillors Luca Ragni (left) and Simone Zmood (right) elected Deputy Mayor and Mayor for Glen Eira's 2024–2025 Council year.
Luca’s interest in studying Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) at Monash was sparked by a conversation he had with the degree’s Course Director at the time, Associate Professor Ben Wellings, an expert in politics and international relations. “The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics is for students who want to play an active role running the country in which they live,” explains Associate Professor Wellings. “The degree sets you up for working in public life, [particularly] domestic politics.”
Luca found the interplay between politics, philosophy, and economics fascinating, particularly the ways in which they influence public policy decisions. As well as the comprehensive coursework, the degree offers study-based travel opportunities, which have been invaluable to Luca: “Monash Arts offers students incredible opportunities, whether it be the Prato program, the PPE Global Study Tour, or the many other opportunities for travel and development, aimed to help students take their next career steps.”
As he embarks on his term as Deputy Mayor, Luca acknowledges the support and encouragement offered by Monash Arts staff: “The Faculty, and specifically the academics delivering the PPE, have been immensely supportive of my professional and personal development over the last few years. They have given their time to assist me in understanding and engaging with the course material, as well as offering personal career advice”.
While in office Luca aims to create and deliver change on a large scale, focusing on investment in parks and green spaces, addressing climate change and sustainable development solutions, and local business. His advice to other students who want to embark on a similar career journey is to take the leap, no matter how daunting, “If you aren’t successful the first time, try again, and again, and again, and eventually it will work out.”
Curious to learn more about the Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Monash Arts? Discover how Monash Arts can help you get career ready, and change the world even before you’ve graduated!