Peer Academic Leaders in Science (PALS)

Program/Year: Biology, Year 4

Experiences: Restaurant host (2020-2021), Barista (2021), PALS Mentor (2023-present), Biology Student Course Union year representative (2022-2025) and vice president of academics (2025-present), Sexual Assault Survivor Support Line (SASSL) volunteer (2023 - present), Laboratory for Translational Medicine project assistant (Dr. Elodie Lugez) (2023-2024), St. Michael’s Hospital; iBEST trainee (2023-present), NSERC-USRA undergraduate research assistant (Dr. Marc J Adler) (2024), Research assistant in the Maternal Fetal Imaging Laboratory (Dr. Dafna Sussman) (2024-2025), Faculty of Science, Health and Safety Committee’s Undergraduate representative (2024-present), Sales associate (2025-present)

Interests: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, drawing, collecting Pokémon cards, arcades, and watching F1, basketball, anime, and movies.

Favorite courses: PCS 300 and CHY 600

Passions: Since I enjoy learning all the sciences, I want to complete my minors in chemistry, physics, and geography.

Advice: It’s going to be a huge transition as an incoming first-year university student. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or confused is normal, but just know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. We’ve all felt it before, but it's essential to take your time adjusting to the new environment, whether that means enrolling in fewer courses, getting involved on campus, or simply spending some time alone exploring the campus. You’re allowed to move at your own pace and know that this isn’t a competition. Make sure to take care of yourself, your best is enough. 

Additional Languages: Cantonese

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: Biology Course Union Deputy of Communications (2025-2026), Medicine4Youth Summer Undergraduate Researcher (May-Aug 2025), Hearts for Healing Marketing Associate (2024-2025), SciXchange Science Rendezvous Volunteer (May 2025), Restaurant Server/Hostess (2022-2025), Assistant Dance Teacher (2021-2023), Project LILY Mental Health Awareness and Support Club Co-President (2022-2023)

Interests: My pastimes include rewatching Grey’s Anatomy, baking and making matcha. I also love dance and was a competitive dancer until starting university. My favourite courses so far have been BLG 311 and BMS 600, and I am excited to take part in two of each of them this year!

Passions: I am passionate about everything in life science (especially biology). Since I was young, I have always been intrigued by marine biology and ecology! I love learning about the cellular processes and mechanisms that make up life. I am pursuing a minor in psychology, and I’m excited to learn how biology and psychology intersect. I hope to develop an understanding of the underlying processes that drive human behaviour. I’d also love to learn about neuroscience!

Advice: My advice for first-year science students is to stay organized from day one. Start your semester by reading your course outlines and putting all important dates in your calendar (I love Notion and Google Calendar). 

I also love studying with spaced repetition and active recall using Anki, I highly recommend trying it! It’s important to try out different study methods until you find something that works for you. If you aren’t seeing the results you want on your tests, try something new!

Something I found really worked for me in my second year was treating school like a 9-5, and studying in the library or SLC before/after classes instead of sleeping in or going home. I was more productive this way and was able to relax once I got home. Making time for yourself is important so you don’t get burnt out!

Lastly, join every club you are interested in, try for every opportunity, and attend as many events as you can! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, failure leads to growth!

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 2

Experiences: PALS volunteer (2025), Compliance Analyst for G20 Research Group (Mar 2025 - present), Captioner/note-taker for Habitat Learn (Jan 2025 - present), Vet Assistant Volunteer at Northpoint Veterinary Hospital (Oct 2024 - present), Adoption Centre Staff at AVA Petsmart (Oct 2024 - present), Freelance transcriptionist (Jan 2023 - Aug 2024), Volunteer at St. Michael’s Hospital (Sept 2023 - Apr 2024)

Interests: My hobbies include going out and exploring Toronto with my friends, watching reality TV shows (shoutout to Love Island USA), and finding new music to listen to! My favourite classes so far have been BLG 144 and CCHY 103. 

Passions: Currently, I’m working hard on building up my resume for when I apply to veterinary school in the future! I can’t say I’ve always had a passion for animals, but after getting my pet cat two years ago, I've been looking forward to getting a veterinary license in the future and working on endangered species conservation projects.

Advice: As a transfer student that had started her first year at TMU Biology this year, the advice that I would give to incoming students would be to always try and make the most of being on campus and not rush home right after classes end. There are always opportunities for socializing, building relationships with your professors, and finishing up assignments or homework before leaving, and it will definitely make life easier if you get a lot done while you’re on campus rather than putting tasks off until you get back home!

Additional Languages: Punjabi, Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: Optometric Assistant - Performing eye test on patients, including optical coherence tomography, fundus photography, non-contact tonometry, and visual field tests. Aside from eye tests, I work at the front desk as well! 

Co-VP of Events - for Hearts4Healing, a pediatric cancer awareness club at TMU. I help plan and execute events in collaboration with a team of students 

Medical Centre Volunteer - interacted with patients, assisted with patient calls and administrative tasks, and shadowed doctors 

CNE - My first year at the CNE was during my Grade 11 summer… fast forward to the summer after my second year of university, and I’m going back to work there! 

Camp Counsellor - I love working with children, so this was so much fun! I got to plan activities for them while tutoring, organizing physical games, and building the cutest friendships!! 

Prior to TMU, I was Co-President of my high school’s student council with my best friend! This is an honorary mention because I loved it so much :)

Interests: My favourite thing to do is spend time with my family and friends, and I’m so lucky they all live close by - perks of living in Scarborough ;). When I’m not with them, I’m probably bingeing shows or watching murder and true crime documentaries. But as much as I love that, I also really enjoy being active and spending time outside. This includes playing volleyball...even if I’m a bit rusty now, it’s still my favourite sport! 

Passions: I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to do, but I definitely know I want to work in healthcare, whether that’s directly with patients or advocating for them through policy, public health, or the mental health field. I hope that when I find the right path, it’s something I feel truly fulfilled and passionate about. Outside of my career, I would love to travel. Some dream spots are Greece, Italy, and all over India!

Advice: Listen to yourself and what you need, even if it is different from others. Everyone has their own pace and struggles, so focus on what helps you succeed and makes the transition easier for you. Take advantage of all the programs TMU offers, especially as a first-year student. There is so much support available that you might not even know about, which is why it is so important to reach out when you need it! Your professors, TAs, and faculty are here for a reason and they want to support you. University can be challenging but having people to lean on makes it easier, so connect with as many people as you can. Use your first year to try different study methods and schedules. Finding what works for you now will help you stay on top of your workload and make the rest of your university experience much more enjoyable.

Even with all the challenges, remember to enjoy every part of the journey. Embrace the struggles and the stress because university teaches you so much, especially outside the classroom. Allow yourself to grow, learn from your mistakes, and be there for yourself. Believe in yourself and keep pushing forward. You got this!! :)

Additional Languages: Hindi, Gujarati, Urdu

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: Most of my ECs revolve around “becoming the best version of yourself”, which is my personal narrative. They include: BeautyTMU founder, volunteering with hospital administration and the emergency department, long-term freelance tutoring, peer mentoring (university-wide and on social media), women's empowerment in NFPs, working under AAS at TMU, EDI in Women in STEM fields, fundraising with the Canadian Cancer Society, Pre-Medical club work, retail work, and much more. I have over 2000 community involvement hours and hope to keep meaningfully impacting the communities around me.

Interests: I'm an intensely passionate person with many interests. Self-care, personal growth and development, and self-actualization are my top-prioritized interests. I also enjoy nature walks, gardening (hence my biology undergrad), cooking, going to the gym, and learning new languages. Some of my favourite courses include bioethics and medical-related courses like medical microbiology or human anatomy/physiology.

Passions: Growing up around hospitals, I've always had a passion for the medical field and will pursue a career as an emergency medicine physician. However, I also enjoy researching how hospitals can integrate engineering expertise with AI (ethically) into hospitals for effective treatment methods, especially in acute settings. I would love to pursue a career in the business field in this topic and help underserved (and other) communities receive higher-quality healthcare access.

Advice: Take care of yourself and put yourself first. University is difficult, can get lonely, and teaches you many things no other setting could, so make the best of it. It’s scary, but it’s also exciting, and you get through it regardless. Build a strong, small circle of healthy relationships with friends, professors, advisors, or family. TMU is known for its astounding resources and services for students; every problem has a resource somewhere here, so take advantage of that. Balance your life with your academics, social life, and your "me time," and you'll pull through your hardships as you have with everything else. Please feel free to contact me for more advice! PALS is also a fantastic resource, and our mentors and I would love to help incoming students.

Additional Languages: Urdu, Hindi, French, conversational Punjabi and Spanish, learning Mandarin Chinese

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 4

Experiences: TMU East African Student Associations Events Associate (2024-Present), Pre/Post-Operation Clinic Volunteer (2023-2024), TMU Project Sunshine Events Associate (2024-2025), Community Mentor for Youth (Present), SciXChange Community STEM Workshop Volunteer (2024-2025), Incoming BLG40A/B Student, Sales Associate (2023-Present)

Interests: I enjoy reading fantasy novels and comics, and I’m passionate about storytelling through photography and visual art—it’s my way of capturing emotion, culture, and lived experience.

Passions: I’m passionate about understanding the intricate dynamics of cells and how molecular mechanisms contribute to health and disease. I hope to continue exploring these topics through research and further studies.

Advice: Take advantage of office hours and get to know your professors, they’re a great resource for grasping a better understanding of course content. Engage with mentors and get involved in campus groups to build connections and make the most of your university experience.

Additional Languages: Somali

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 4

Experiences: PALS volunteer (2023-present), Leacross foundation alumni, Undergraduate research volunteer (Antonescu lab), Indicium Research volunteer with STEM Fellowship, TMU STEM Fellowship event director, Project Health Web non profit founder, Association of Undergraduate Women in Science Co-VP of advocacy, Undergraduate science society of TMU (USSTM) communications graphic designer, Research Assistant at St. Michael's Hospital, iBEST research trainee, Student Recruitment Ambassador at TMU, SciXchange recruitment liaison, Incoming BLG 40A/B thesis student

Interests: I enjoy spending my free time watching Netflix, visiting cafés with friends, and exploring new sights. Some of my favorite hobbies include doing makeup (both on myself and others), digital art, painting, and staying active through fitness. Lately, I’ve been especially interested in spin and Pilates classes.

A few of my favorite courses so far have been BLG 311, SOC 608, and BLG 307.

Passions: I enjoy studying human interactions and how they influence our behaviors as a society, which is why I chose to minor in sociology. I also have a strong interest in clinical healthcare research, particularly in cancer biology and pregnancy-related studies. In addition, I have a very creative side and enjoy exploring digital and visual art.

Advice: As a first-year student, it's natural to feel the pressure of having everything figured out from day one. But don't worry, it's okay not to have it all together just yet. It's important to remember that it might take you a semester, a year, or even until your second year to gain the confidence to get involved on campus, and connect with professors, TAs, upper-year students, and staff members. The most important thing is to not set a deadline for your success or compare yourself to others. Your journey is unique, and you'll reach your goals at your own pace.

Additional Languages: Urdu, punjabi, conversational french

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

Experiences: Biomedical Science Program Director + Communications Deputy - USSTM (2025-present), Vice President - Science Beyond Barriers (2024-present), Peer Mentor - Tri-Mentoring Program (2024-present), Street Team Volunteer - TMSU (2024-present), Co-Vice President of Events - Hearts for Healing (2024-present), Social Media Manager + Community Partnership Volunteer - SciXchange (2024-present), Vice President of Marketing - TMU Premedical Society (2024-present), Sexual Assault Survivor Support Line Volunteer - Centre for Safer Sex and Sexual Violence Support - TMSU (2024-present), Middle School Tutor - VarsityTutors (2025-present), Junior Assistant Sales Representative (Summer Student) - Weishaupt North America (2024-2024), Doctor’s Assistant and Receptionist - Oakvillage Pediatrics (2021-2022)

Interests: I enjoy many things and love finding different ways to spend my time! I love to read all kinds of novels in my free time, play video games, collect Pokemon cards, attend fashion shows, and watch movies as I am very interested in fashion and film. I also play electric guitar and enjoy going to the gym. As anyone else would, I love travelling and have been to 10 different countries; Canada, the US, Romania, Scotland, Italy, the Dominican Republic, France, Turkey, Bulgaria, and England. 

My favourite classes that I have taken have been: FSN 223, PSY 101/202, BLG 151, BLG 400, and FSN 504. I also enjoyed BCH 261 and CHY 142, although they were both very challenging.

Passions: In the future, I am really passionate about pursuing either medicine or psychology. As someone who has dealt with major health issues before, and have had my life saved due to amazing doctors, it made me extremely interested in hospitals, how they work, how the human body works, and how science works as a whole. I am extremely passionate about being that person who can aid someone in the way I was helped, and maybe spark the love of science in others around me (which is something I currently do as a Community Partnership Volunteer)!

I am also extremely passionate about psychology, and would also be interested in completing further education in that field. I am intrigued by the way the brain works, how our experiences shape our personality, and putting a biological perspective on a psychological matter. I am currently finding a psychology lab to be a volunteer for in order to take a peek behind the curtain and see how psychological research works!

Advice: My advice to first year students is to get involved, and never be afraid to ask questions. If you ever see any interesting club or event, go! Even if you have no one to go with. Chances are, most people at this event will not know anyone either. My involvement at TMU is how I made friends that I consider very close, and has provided me with an extensive and vast skill set. 

Also, TMU provides a service for basically anything you can think of. Whether that be insurance, counseling, peer support, success coordinators, free food etc. There is always someone who can help you in any given situation, so if you ever need something, reach out to your professor and first year program director, and truly immerse yourself in the school. Getting to know the people around you will only benefit you!

Additional Languages: Romanian and french!

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 4

Experiences: Volunteering at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital and Toronto General Hospital

Interests: I love watching TV shows, and my favourite course has been Cell Biology so far.

Passions: I am passionate about pursuing a career in medicine, driven by a strong desire to help others and make a positive impact on people's lives. As I prepare to take the MCAT in the near future, I will continue learning more about the human body and the intricacies of medical science.

Advice: My most important piece of advice to first-year students is to stay organized and keep track of assignments, due dates, and study materials. Use a calendar to stay on top of your schedule, as in university, you will find that there is no time for catching up. Whatever you need to do, do it as soon as possible.

Additional Languages: Farsi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 4

Experiences: PALS Volunteer, Volunteer at Baycrest Hospital (supporting patient care and assisting with daily activities), Co-Vice President of TMU Stem Cell Club (organizing events and outreach related to stem cell awareness), President of Hemoglobal TMU (leading education and outreach initiatives across the GTA), Peer Tutor (Biology, Chemistry, Math, English for Grades 9–12) Student Activity Council Member (organizing school-wide events and activities), Sales Associate 

Interests: I enjoy playing badminton and volleyball, and love watching soccer and hockey. I’m a huge mood reader and can sit for hours just reading. I also enjoy painting and doing arts and crafts. I love exploring new restaurants and travelling, some of my favourite destinations include Spain, Lisbon, Pakistan, and Dubai. My favourite courses so far have been organic chemistry and genetics; both of these courses really did challenge me, but they were both fascinating and rewarding. 

Passions: I’m passionate about pursuing a career in medicine and making a meaningful impact in people’s lives through healthcare. While I’m deeply interested in science, I’m also doing a minor in a more humanitarian field to better understand the social and global factors that influence health. I’m eager to learn more about how medicine intersects with public health, equity, and community care, and I hope to combine scientific knowledge with compassion to support patients beyond just clinical treatment

But as of right now, a more attainable future, I want to finish up my degree and hopefully pursue a master's degree.

Advice: One piece of advice I would give to first-year science students is to stay on top of everything from the very beginning. The semester moves faster than you think one moment, it’s the first week, and the next, it's finals season. Coming out of COVID’s version of high school, I found the transition really challenging. I didn’t have proper study techniques or time management skills because classes had been so lenient. If I could redo my first year, I would focus on building structure early on, setting a schedule, reviewing material regularly, and not leaving things to the last minute.

At the same time, make sure to have fun. These four years go by really fast. Try to make friends who support you and share your drive and ambition, it makes the university experience a lot more meaningful and enjoyable.

Additional Languages: English, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Saraiki

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 2

Experiences: Nurse Assistant/Caregiver (2024-present), Hospital volunteer at Toronto western hospital (March 2025-present), Program assistant at Carry Toronto (May 2025-present), Social media manager at my local church(2023-present)

Interests: I’m an avid fan of Chinese dramas and reality shows, and I love getting lost in a good book. When I’m not watching or reading, you’ll find me behind the camera. I'm in the process of launching my own YouTube channel, capturing everyday moments and creative ideas. My favorite courses so far are MTH 131 and CHY 103.

Passions: Looking ahead, I want to travel the world and discover fashion in different cultures. I’m excited to see local styles and share them with my audience. I also plan to keep improving my video and photo editing skills. I look forward to capturing authentic moments—from bustling markets to hidden boutiques—and turning them into inspiring stories. I hope to connect with people everywhere, learning their style inspirations and sharing their voices. My goal is to blend travel, fashion, and creative editing into engaging content that sparks curiosity and creativity.

Advice: If I could give one piece of advice to first-year science students, it would be to start using office hours from week one—your instructors and TAs can clear up confusion way faster than you struggling on your own. Don’t let the speed of your classmates put you under pressure; everyone learns at their own pace, so stay calm and trust that steady, consistent effort will pay off. Remember to balance your studies with some fun—whether it’s grabbing coffee with friends, joining a club, or watching your favorite show, regular breaks will keep you refreshed and motivated. If I could redo my first year, I would have jumped into office hours sooner and made sure to schedule time for social activities alongside my study sessions.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 2

Experiences: Human Resource Manager for Flowpoint Interactive. (2021-present), Crisis Director for METMUN (present), Associates Degree in Biotechnology from UOP (2022-2024), AKWOS UOP Representative (2023-2024) Student Government Supervisor in High School (2018-2020)

Interests: Recently, I’ve been trying to push and perfect my cooking skills, though I’m no MasterChef, my food is edible! I also enjoy collecting cute stationery and robot models, and I like playing video games in my free time.

Some of my favourite classes have been PHL 509 and BLG 143!

Passions: I’ve always been intrigued by medicine and the complexities of the human body, but I’ve found myself torn on which field to pursue. Lately, I’ve taken a strong interest in cybernetic enhancements and prosthetics. I genuinely believe that, if used responsibly, they could be incredibly beneficial (and no, I’m not affiliated with Arasaka... at least not yet). Outside of that, I’m doing a minor in Psychology and Health Services Management!

Advice: After you are done with your classes, don't rush home! Be sure to get involved with clubs, events and take advantage of office hours. It's really hard to make new friends in the start but eventually you’ll find like minded people!

If I could go back to my first year again, I would probably try to fix my sleep schedule… It's bad. Don’t be like me.

Additional Languages: English, Pashto, Urdu.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences (Co-op), Year 5

Experiences: PALS 25/26 Lead, Former PALS volunteer (2022-25), VP Operations for AUWS (Association of Undergraduate Women in Science), Co-VP of Events for Vision4all, Youth Coordinator for Muslim Circle of Canada (MCC), Former Quality Lab Analyst

Interests: Painting enough to cover all my bedroom walls, watching K-dramas, exploring new cuisines/cultures, watching ultimate frisbee and football, favourite courses so far: psychology (PSY 201) and cell biology (BLG 311)

Passions: Traveling (particularly Asia), youth leadership, learning more about the different lifestyles that make up our community

Advice: Try allotting time to different aspects of your life to understand what needs more time and where you can use less. It takes a while to adjust to university, and that's completely ok. Give yourself the space to meet new people, get involved with the school, and ask professors or upper-year mentors for help when you need it.

Additional Languages: Bengali, conversational Hindi & Korean

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 4

Experiences: Volunteer at Philip Aziz Centre for Hospice Care, Co-President of Archery Club, VP of Finance STEM Fellowship, VP of Finance BMSCU, Peer Support TMU, Badminton Club member, Business Advisor at Combat IQ, Tutor at Elements of Knowledge, Volunteer Tutor at Youth Dream Canada, Laundromat owner with 2 employees,  Bachelor of Science (Hons.) from U of T, Cofounder & Senior Partner of Imperium Asset Management, Summer Intern at RBC Wealth Management, Canadian Securities Course

Incoming BLG 40A//B Student, BLG481 Research Student, SCI 999, Summer Research Student at Leslie Dan Pharmacy (U of T), Research Student at Toronto Western Hospital 

Interests: I’m currently learning Korean to speak with my wife’s family. When I can I try to read for fun. I also love sports, so I have experience and interests in: skiing, soccer, golf, baseball, badminton, Muay Thai, working out in the gym… I tried archery in Korea and loved it so much I joined the Archery Club at TMU in 2022. This year I won 3rd place in my category in a tournament with other universities! I also love cooking, it’s one of my favourite things to do to de-stress from school. 

Some of my favourite courses include RTA 928, BLG 143, BCH 261, and CRM 101. Usually, it was because either the course material was thought provoking and deeply challenged my preconceptions, or the professor was so engaging that I was inspired to learn more. 

Passions: I hope to pursue a career in medicine and work with patients. As well, my experiences have led me to be very passionate about mentorship, because I know firsthand what it’s like to feel overwhelmed, lost, and anxious about my future. All the ups and downs I have been through ultimately led me to where I am today. I love the sciences, so I will continue learning and pursuing my science education. 

Advice: You may feel pressure to have things figured out, but it’s quite alright if you don’t. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or try your best. This is my second undergraduate degree. I was completely overwhelmed and had no idea what to do with my life. I did poorly in school and also bounced around different endeavors. It wasn’t until I fully experienced things myself that I had a better understanding of what I genuinely wanted to do. 

The school has tons of clubs, avenues to connect with professors, and opportunities to meet people and get involved in ways you can’t imagine. You never know where you’ll find a mentor, meet new friends, or fall in love with a sport or activity you never tried before.

Don’t compare your journey, in academics or in life, to anyone else. Your journey is your own. This is an exciting and adventurous time for you, so I encourage you to run headfirst into this chapter of your life! 

Additional Languages: English, Conversational Mandarin

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 5

Experiences: Undergraduate Research Student with the Rackus Research Group (May 2025 - present), Hospice Volunteer (May 2025 - present), USSTM Chemistry Director (May 2025 - present), Sales Associate (Aug 2025 - present), Summer Research Student with the Gossage Group (May 2024 - Aug 2024), Insurance Agent (May 2020 - Apr 2023) I also just joined the ‘French for All Club’ so I can improve my French!

Interests: My pastimes lately have been watching hair care and professional wrestling videos on YouTube, and sometimes watching the full shows whenever I get the chance. Because I’d been an athlete up until my adulthood, I like working out. I also used to play piano since I was five years old, so I want to continue that as a hobby, as well as taking some painting classes. Cooking is my favourite hobby, but I’ve been doing it on an as-needed basis because I’ve been getting lazy with it. My favourite courses: CHY 339, CLD 231 and CMN 279.

Passions: Lately, I have been very interested in interior decorating, fashion, and hair care. I don’t necessarily have any long-term goals solidified yet, but I want to be more aware of my surroundings. I have always been so busy with work that I do not take the time to enjoy hot spots and natural wonders of the GTA and Ontario. I want to go to more beaches, parks, and support more local businesses. In terms of my career, I am going with the flow of things and taking advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. I believe that everything will work out the way it should.

Advice: My advice to you is to do what works for you. Do not take on more than you can handle. Great performance in three or four courses per semester is better than satisfactory performance in five or six courses. Also do not compare yourself to others in terms of grades, academic performance, and learning styles. Everyone is unique and we all shine in different ways (otherwise we would all be robots). Also, please prioritize your mental health. If you need help, use the resources at TMU and reach out. If I had known better, I would have taken breaks from school when I needed them and dropped courses I knew I was going to fail.

Additional Languages: French

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 3

Experiences: Customer Experience Associate at TD Bank, Dental Receptionist, Research Co-op at Mount Sinai Hospital (dry lab), Volunteer roles in healthcare & community settings

Interests: Reading, journaling, fitness and mindfulness, Biology & health sciences courses, exploring medical documentaries and podcasts 

Passions: Healthcare accessibility and research, eager to pursue a career in health sciences or dentistry, interested in genetics, microbiome, and women’s health

Advice: First year can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. There are so many resources and people ready to support you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in class, visit office hours, or connect with upper-year students. Focus on truly understanding the concepts rather than just memorizing for exams, it will make later courses much easier.

Try to build a routine that balances school, self-care, and social life. Join clubs or events even if it’s outside your comfort zone, you’ll meet great people and discover new interests.

If I could redo my first year, I would stop being afraid to ask for help sooner and manage my time with more structure. I also would’ve been more confident in exploring different study techniques until I found what worked best for me. Mistakes are part of the process, what matters most is that you keep learning and growing.

Additional Languages: English, Urdu

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 3

Experiences: PALS volunteer (2024-present), ArtSci: Vp Ops (June 2024-present) & Events team member (June 2024 - June 2025), Science Beyond Borders: Vp Ops (June 2025 - present), Chemistry Course Union: Secretary (June 2024 - June 2025), SciXchange: Volunteer (June 2024 - present)

Interests: I enjoy exploring different cuisines and watching k-dramas and anime. I also enjoy playing video games, crochet, painting and ceramics.

My favorite classes have been CHY 142, CHY 242 

Passions: Organic Chemistry, science, helping others

Advice: If I could talk to my first year self, I would strongly encourage her to be more proactive in making an effort towards building relationships with her peers and professors. In addition, taking advantage of all the resources that TMU offers such as SLGs and networking events will be super beneficial in the long run. I would also like to remind her that university is a learning curve and the first year is only the start of this amazing and exciting journey and that making mistakes is okay! Take one step at a time while striving to grow and improve on oneself.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 2

Experiences: Volunteer for Peer Academic Leaders in Science (PALS), Volunteer for TMU Orientation Crew – Central Orientation Week 2025, Strong communication and teamwork skills developed by being a part of the Sports team for 6 years and participating in MUN and various other events at my high school

Interests: I LOVE music, it’s just too good, especially when you are on a long drive. You just can not compare it to anything else. Usually when I’m free, I go to the gym or play video games to connect with some old friends.

Passions: I think I’m curious about how machines work, how they do all that processing within seconds. But I’m always trying out something new. These days, I’m trying to learn how to play guitar.

Advice: Well, it’s the first time you are here, so how about you enjoy it? Take about 4 courses so you don't fall behind but don't take too many. Do as many questions as you can for practice. Notes are supposed to be read a few times for knowledge, then it’s on how much you practice. Talk to the professor/TA in their office hours for how to practice for that specific course. Attend all kinds of events and try living on campus for the first sem, trust me you get access to a lot more events. Go around TMU buildings. There are many places to just gather around and socialize, you get to meet all kinds of different people. Lastly, just take it easy, it will all work out.

Additional Languages: Urdu

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 4

Experiences: PALS Volunteer, Administrator, Convocation Event Staff, Counsellor, Event Coordinator, Customer Service Coordinator at Multiple Non-Profit Organizations, Academic Mentor and Tutor

Interests: Traveling, exploring diverse cultures and cuisines, delving into the rich history of monarchies, and maintaining a strong enthusiasm for continuous learning and literature.

My favorite courses so far are CPS 310 and CPS 510.

Passions: Tech, Leadership, Philanthropy and Public Speaking

Advice: Science thrives on curiosity. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, explore new topics, and dive deep into what fascinates you. Find a schedule that allows you to succeed academically while also making time for relaxation and social activities, as balance is key to avoiding burnout. Take advantage of professors’ office hours, TAs, and online resources to make the most of your learning experience. Form study groups, connect with peers, and network with professors. A strong support network can provide academic assistance and foster both lasting friendships and professional growth.

Additional Languages: Urdu, Hindi and Arabic

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 4

Experiences: Director of Social Media at (TMSAA) 2022-23, Science Rendezvous volunteering (2023), 3x Hackathon winner (2023), Participant at Sprout (2023), PALS volunteer (2023 - present)

Interests: Outside school, I have various hobbies like singing, playing guitar, dancing, watching k-dramas, drawing, playing badminton, cooking, writing, and watching youtube if I’m too lazy to do any of the above haha!

Passions: Honestly, I’m still figuring out my passion. Currently, I’m enjoying the money that I get from my work. So right now, money is my passion but I’m in search of something not materialistic. Something that I’m excited to do everyday. I love travelling, meeting new people, working with technology and much more. I’m looking for a blend of something that I love. 

Advice: Love yourself. It’s always you vs. you. I compared myself a lot with my classmates, and it turned out I was always the one who got hurt in the end. Later, I realized it was never about the others. It’s your life. If you do better than you did yesterday, you’re doing great! Also, try to explore as much as you can. You are never going to be this young again. So say “yes” to every new opportunity that comes across. 

Additional Languages: Gujarati, Hindi, learning Korean and French

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 2

Experiences: PALS Volunteer, Sales Associate, Skechers(Sept 2024- Present)

Interests: My favourite hobby is playing video games, especially Rocket league. I’m also a big soccer fan and love playing badminton. I enjoy watching anime, reading books and sketching from time to time. Lately, I’ve been very interested in getting better at chess.

Passions: I’m passionate about learning. That is one of the reasons why I chose computer science because I feel it is always changing and you need to keep learning along the way to keep up. I do wanna spend a good time in the industry trying to learn but ultimately I think I’m planning on leaning into teaching because I’m very passionate about educating and helping others. 

Advice: My advice to first years would be “don’t forget to explore”. University is a big step in your career, not only because of the degree, but also because of the time that you get to explore what you are passionate about. Of course, if you have already discovered your passion it helps you put in the work to pursue that but for those who are still wondering, it is a very good opportunity to explore and learn about yourself which ultimately goes a long way.

When I’m talking about exploring, I’m also talking about making new friends, joining clubs, going to different events on and off campus. Additionally, take full advantage of the various resources that TMU provides.

Additional Languages: Punjabi and Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 2

Experiences: I’ve held roles such as Student Council President and Press Team Executive, where I organized events, managed teams, handled communications, and co-led School-wide cybersecurity campaigns. I’ve also volunteered at community events, worked with LIV Golf, and a non-profit helping kids with intellectual disabilities. I took part in my community's Aesthetic Revamp Project (murals, bench painting, repainting). In high school, I was involved in MUN, Robotics Club, Debate Club, inter-regional Badminton, Art Competitions, and tutoring.

Interests: I enjoy graphic design, photography, baking, cooking, movies, and badminton. However, I especially love exploring all forms of art, including painting, sketching, sculpting, and crocheting (still exploring more). I’ve always been drawn to community projects such as mural painting, kids’ face painting, and beach cleanups. I also love exploring new places and learning about the world (especially through cuisine). My favorite courses so far have been MTH 110, MTH 108, CPS 310, and FRE 101.

Passions: I’d say I’m genuinely passionate about what I’m studying. Tech is something I find really fascinating. I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to pursue in the future, because there are so many possibilities. In addition to computer science, I’m also interested in exploring graphic design and marketing. I’m eager to learn more about the world, especially through travel, and I enjoy discovering new things, even if it’s a little fact. I also hope to do more volunteer work. One of my long-term goals is to possibly start a nonprofit organization with a friend.

Advice: Don’t hesitate to ask questions early and seek help, no matter how intimidating it might feel. It’s always better to clarify things sooner rather than putting them off. Talk to your program advisor and choose a course load that you can realistically manage. It’s a big shift from high school to university, so make use of campus resources and academic support tools before you start to feel overwhelmed. Also, take advantage of the campus location. Use your free time to explore the area, go for walks, and take time out for yourself. The city has so much to offer. If I could go back, I would definitely attend office hours and reach out to TAs instead of letting my questions pile up. I’d also get more involved by attending events, joining clubs, and making use of study spaces around campus. In your first year, remember you’re not the only one looking to make friends. Everyone else is, too. So don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, talk to classmates, and show up to events that interest you.

Additional Languages: Urdu, Sindhi, and conversational Hindi, French and Arabic

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Financial Mathematics (Co-op), Year 3

Experiences: Junior Accounting Staff at NRK Accounting (2025), Member of the TMU Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club, Operations Specialist at Unique Refillers & Hassaner Traders (2022–2023), Male President, Aga Khan Mzizima Secondary School (2021–2022)

Interests: Training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, Watching MMA, Listening to music (favourite artists: Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, Burna Boy), Trying food from around the world, Favourite course so far: CMTH 501

Passions: I really want to make the most of every opportunity, especially through co-op, to discover what feels right for me and where I thrive. I have a strong passion for mathematical research and analysis, and I love the challenge of breaking down complex ideas to find patterns and solutions. More than anything, I want to keep learning and pushing myself forward, whether that means picking up new programming languages, exploring different industries, or collaborating with people from all walks of life. I believe it’s important never to stay still. I want to keep elevating myself, broadening my perspective, and growing into someone who can use math and critical thinking to make an impact wherever I go.

Advice: Honestly, enjoy every second of your first year as it’s your chance to set yourself up for the rest of your time here. Try things you’ve never done before! Go step into a gym even if you’ve never been, join that club that catches your interest, make new friends, and say yes to things that push you out of your comfort zone. Do stuff that scares you a bit, but makes you feel alive, as that’s how you figure out what you like and who you are.

Try your best not to procrastinate too much. Trust me, good time management will save you so much stress. Get in the habit of making lists for everything, such as your assignments, personal stuff, even little expenses or finance, and sort them out by what needs to get done first. It’s a simple thing, but it makes a huge difference.

Try everything, stay organised, and just enjoy the ride! This year is all about discovering yourself, make the most of it.

Additional Languages: Swahili, French, Portuguese, Hindi, Gujarati, Kutchi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Medical Physics, Year 2

Experiences: Candidate for the Algerian National Math Olympiad (2021,2022,2023), Completed one year of medical studies in Algeria before continuing my education in Canada, Member of ANTEC (Association Nationale de Tourisme et Échange Culturel) (2019-2023), participated in the STEM Programming for Girls program with the US Embassy in Algeria (April–May 2021), French tutor at GEMS Metropole School in Dubai for Grade 4 and 5 students (September 2018-April 2019), President of the Aerospace Club in high school (2023), Volunteered at Mustapha Pacha University Hospital from 2022 to 2023, Volunteered at Toronto General Hospital (2025), 30hr of surgery shadowing Mustapha Pacha University Hospital (2024), Led youth activities and mentored junior members within the association, Won multiple first place awards in math and physics debate competitions between 2021 and 2023, Organized multiple school events and managed over 150 students, Notes Taker for Calculus II (MTH 231), and Chemistry II (CHY 113), Incoming PCS 120/PCS 130 SLG tutor at TMU

Interests: I enjoy collecting posters and albums, painting, baking, working out as well as sketching. I’m into fast cars, barbie movies, fashion, makeup, Legos. 

Favorite Courses (so far): MTH 108, PCS 181, PCS 120.

Passions: I just love learning about everything, which is why I’m pursuing minors in Biology, Math, and French. In the future, I hope to pursue graduate studies in aerospace engineering and nuclear physics, either in Switzerland or the United States. My ultimate goal has always been to become an astronaut.

Advice: Go to office hours! Professors and TAs are there to help, and attend SLGs. Reading your slides and notes won’t get you far if you don’t practice. Do as many practice questions as you possibly can. Don’t just memorize; try to understand what you’re studying. Find a study method that works for you, just because someone studies a certain way doesn't mean you should blindly copy them. Just because something works for someone doesn't mean it works for everyone.

Never compare yourself to others. Everyone grows at their own pace. Just because you failed once doesn't mean it's the end of the world, it just means you're doing something wrong and you need to figure out what it is.

Use a planner to keep track of deadlines, exams, and assignments. It’s easier to stay ahead than to catch up.Stay organized, that way you can have a social life and do well academically. 

Don’t forget to take breaks, eat well, and sleep enough. Your body can't function properly if you don't take care of it. Go out, join clubs, and go on walks, so you can avoid burnout. 

Additional Languages: Arabic, French

Get in Touch: Email