Peer Academic Leaders in Science (PALS)

Program/Year: Biology, Year 4

Experiences: PALS Peer Mentor,  Hearts for Healing Co-VP Marketing, Biology Course Union Co-VP Communications, ArtSci Biology Director, Incoming Co-VP Professional Development Women in Science, Medicine4Youth TMU Co-President/Founder ('25-26), Medicine4Youth Summer Research Project (literature review),  Undergraduate Research Projects (Sabatinos Lab) in BLG481 and CHY307, Incoming BLG40A/B Thesis Student, Trillium Health Partners Paediatric Inpatient Volunteer, Science Rendezvous Volunteer (‘25 and ‘26)

Interests: In my free time, I love spending time with my family and my cats, rewatching comfort shows (usually Grey’s Anatomy, The Office, and Pretty Little Liars), or playing The Sims. I grew up as a dancer and hope to make time for it again this year. I also love camping, anything outdoorsy, and artists like Harry Styles, Lorde, and Noah Kahan.

Academically, some of my favourite courses so far have been BLG311, BLG307, and BLG888. I also have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the biochemistry series (BCH261/361/463) because they were really interesting but definitely challenging.

Passions: Through my time at university, I have developed a real passion for research. I love learning about the cellular processes that underlie life and am excited to continue developing my research skills through my undergraduate thesis in the Sabatinos Lab! I hope to continue building on this passion through graduate studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of biology. I am also passionate about science communication and making science accessible to others. Alongside this, I am pursuing a minor in psychology and am fascinated by how biology and psychology intersect, especially in neuroscience and behaviour.

Advice: My biggest piece of advice for first-year students is to step out of your comfort zone. Say yes to opportunities you normally might not, whether that means volunteering, joining clubs, going to events, or meeting new people. University is such an important time to try new things, learn about yourself, and discover what you enjoy.

Do not let the fear of failure hold you back. It is okay to make mistakes, and it is okay not to have everything figured out. Use the resources available to you, including your professors and TAs (and your PALS!), and do not be afraid to go to office hours. You do not need to have something perfect to say; just show up and be curious.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: PALS (2025 - Present)
Vice President, Pre-Veterinary Club (2025 - Present)
TNR, Action Volunteers for Animals (2025 - Present)
Model United Nations Delegate (2025 - Present)
Undergraduate Research Volunteer, Mattiazzi Lab (2026)
Accessibility Note-Taker, Habitat Learn (2025 - Present)
Compliance Analyst, G20 Research Group (2025)
Volunteer, Northpoint Veterinary Hospital (2024 - 2025)
Adoption Centre Staff, Action Volunteers for Animals (2024 - 2025)
Academic Year Volunteer, St. Michael’s Hospital (2023 - 2024)

Interests: Outside of school, I love spending time with my two cats at home, reading a good webtoon or novel, or learning new languages. Currently I’m trying to learn Russian, but I have many other languages on my list to tackle as well! I’m also really big into discovering new music genres, going to concerts, finding new cafes around the city, and playing random video games until I get bored of them. Right now I’m playing Baldur’s Gate 3, but my all-time-favourite game is definitely Hades.

Passions: I’m eager to take some of the more environment and animal-related courses, though they’re definitely few and far between. I’m planning to pursue a career in the veterinary and conservation field, so I would definitely say that I have a passion for all things related to animals and the environment. I plan to apply to OVC at Guelph after graduating, however, I may take a bit of time after graduation to gain further experience in vet clinics or conservation research opportunities!

Advice: Itransferred to TMU after doing 3 years of English & Professional Writing at York University, so I’ve had the experience of being a first year student twice now. After doing it a second time, I can confidently say that, as a first year, you should take the time to socialize with your fellow peers, since they’re all in the same boat as you! While your classes and grades will be important for any of your future pursuits, you should try to maintain a balance between your academics and social life in order to avoid getting overly burnt out and keep up your motivation for coming to classes, being on campus, and over all enjoying your university experience to the fullest.

Additional Languages: English, Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 4

Experiences: I enjoy extracurriculars that fit my personal narrative of self-actualization. I founded beautyTMU in W2024, have volunteered at my local hospital for 4 years, freelance tutoring for 5 years, peer-mentoring (university-wide and on social media) for 3 years, worked under AAS for 2 years, done some EDI work with women in STEM, worked with my city (Mississauga)'s forestry department, and much more. I am also an incoming BLG40A/B thesis student with the Keng-Lou lab, where I’ll be working with bees and ecological conservation measures. I have gained over 3,000 hours of community involvement that have taught me valuable skills and experiences, and I hope to continue to make a meaningful impact on my surrounding communities.

Interests: I like to describe myself as an intensely passionate person with many interests! However, self-care and personal growth are my top priorities. I also enjoy working in nature, cooking complex dishes, learning new languages and cultures, and working out. Some of my favourite courses include medical microbiology (BMS451), ecology (BLG567), bioethics (PHL509), and some other molecular biology courses.

Passions: I was initially interested in emergency medicine when I joined university, but I have also developed a passion for conservation ecology and environmental sciences. The juxtaposition of these 2 very different disciplines has led me to want to pursue a doctorate-level education in the future and combine both fields. I’m very eager to learn more about both fields as our STEM research progresses so rapidly!

Advice: Put yourself first and always get comfortable with your presence alone. University teaches you so many valuable lessons and skills that no other setting could, and this experience will be memorable forever; you might as well make the best of it! Build a circle of healthy relationships with professors, great friends (and role models), advisors, and family. Take advantage of TMU's many free services for students; there's a resource for every problem. Balance your life with all of your other commitments, and remember that with all hardships comes ease. Please feel free to contact me for any advice or guidance; PALs is a fantastic resource, and our mentors really want to help you!

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

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 2

Experiences: PALS Peer Mentor (2026), Let's Talk Science Outreach Volunteer (2025-present), Retirement Home Concierge (2025-present), Marketing Coordinator (Metropolitan Engineering Competition), Research Student (Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation)

Interests: My interests include playing soccer and basketball, going for runs, photography, and weightlifting at the gym. I also enjoy watching shows and movies, reading, journaling, and exploring different cafes, as well as finding ways to be more productive.

Some of my favourite courses so far have been CHY113 and PCS130, mainly because of the fun, hands-on lab experiments that allow us to apply concepts learned in class

Passions: I am passionate about learning more about the human mind through psychiatry, particularly how people think, behave, and experience mental health disorders. I am interested in advancing research in this field because it often lacks funding.

I am also fascinated by cardiac perfusion and how bypass machines can temporarily allow safe control of the function of the heart and lungs during surgery.

Advice: My biggest piece of advice is to prioritize becoming the best version of yourself, while also maintaining a healthy balance. University is important, but it is only one part of your life. Failing a course or changing your major is not the end of the world. Consistency and discipline will take you further than motivation alone.

Everyone is adjusting in first year, so don’t be afraid to ask others for help, attend office hours, or socialize with classmates. Building these relationships and making use of available resources can help make the transition much easier.

Additional Languages: Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 5

Experiences: PALS volunteer (2023-present). PALs engagement lead (2026)Leacross foundation alumni, Undergraduate research volunteer (Antonescu lab), Indicium competition Research assistant with STEM Fellowship, TMU STEM Fellowship event director, Association of Undergraduate Women in Science Co-VP of advocacy, 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. Lately, I’ve been especially interested in Muay Thai and weight training.

A few of my favorite courses so far have been BLG311, SOC608, and BLG307

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 global health and inequality, women’s health and pregnancy-related studies.

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. 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, ASL

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

Experiences: TMU PALS program (2026)
Toronto Fort York Food Bank (2023-2026)
Covenant House (2024-2025)
Midnight Runners Running Club (2023-2025)

Interests: I love to exercise! Weightlifting, running, and yoga. I also love to play games, cook, do karaoke and hang out in cafes drinking coffee and studying.

Passions: I hope to pursue a medical education in the near future, but ultimately something that focuses on health and wellbeing!

Advice: Being smart pales in comparison to working hard. 

Use Anki!

Strike while the iron is hot! Do the early work when it is easier to succeed…it’s better to go into the final needing a B to get an A, than to need an A to get a B.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 5

Experiences: PALS Volunteer, Volunteer at Baycrest Hospital (supporting patient care and assisting with daily activities), Undergraduate research volunteer (Mattiazzi Lab), Research volunteer at Baycrest (specialising in alzheimer's and dementia research), 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 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 human 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 on 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. 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: PALS volunteer, TMU Stem Cell Club 2nd year director, Distress Centres of Greater Toronto call-line volunteer, WLU Campus first responder, Previous degrees in business and computer science (double degree program), Ophthalmology office technician, Previous work experience in various investment finance companies (CIGAM, Peloton Capital Management, Boosted.ai), CSIA certified ski instructor, Pharmacy assistant

Interests: I spend most of my free time watching TV and seeing new movies in theatres. I love going to the cinema and always try to catch as many films at TIFF as possible. When I’m not watching something, I enjoy weight training, going for runs, spending time in nature, and playing video games with friends.

Passions: I enjoy patient interactions, thinking quickly, and solving problems in situations where I can make a meaningful difference. I particularly enjoy working in a hands-on, physical environment where I can combine technical skills with interpersonal communication, which is why I plan to pursue a career in dentistry. I am also eager to learn more about biochemistry and pharmacology, particularly how these fields are applied in healthcare settings to improve patient outcomes.

Advice: Be open to meeting as many different people as possible. While it is important to build strong, lasting friendships, university is also a unique opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds, interests, and programs. These experiences can help you discover new opportunities, challenge your perspectives, and learn more about yourself.

Some of the most valuable parts of university happen outside the classroom. Joining clubs, attending events, and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to experiences and interests you may never have discovered otherwise. If I could do my first year again, I would make a greater effort to get involved in more activities and connect with people outside of my degree. Learning from a wider range of perspectives would have helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

Experiences: 

-PALS (2025-Present)
-Toronto Western Hospital volunteer (2025-present)
-Undergraduate research volunteer (Botelho Lab)—2026
-Tutor (Tutors of St. Clair 2025-present)
-Program assistant (CARY Toronto) An East African NGO helping newcomers in Canada
- PSW (late 2023-2024)

Interests: In my free time, I like to watch TV shows. I’m a big homebody. I also enjoy knitting and making some DIY things, cooking, as well as reading romance books. My favourite courses are Microbiology I, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, and Organic Chemistry.

Passions: I’m passionate about pursuing a career as a physician-scientist. Initially, my goal was to serve my community as a physician by providing compassionate, patient-centered care. However, as I became more involved in research, I realized that I also want to contribute to advancing medical knowledge and developing better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. I’m especially excited about the opportunity to bridge research and clinical practice, using laboratory discoveries to improve patient outcomes while allowing patient experiences to inspire new research questions. This combination of scientific discovery and direct patient care is what motivates me most, and I’m eager to continue learning through research, mentorship, and clinical experiences.

Advice: One piece of advice I would give to first-year students is to take it one step at a time. You're not falling behind, and your worth is not defined by your grades. Focus on building genuine friendships with people who encourage you, share your ambitions, and hold you accountable. Get involved in clubs and take advantage of the opportunities your university offers. Don't be afraid to talk to your professors and seek guidance when you need it. Most importantly, find joy in what you do. When you're passionate about your work, the challenges become much easier to navigate.

Additional Languages: Kinyarwanda

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

Experiences: Human Resource Manager for Flowpoint Interactive. (2021-present), Crisis Director for METMUN (2025-2026), Associates Degree in Biotechnology from UOP (2022-2024), AKWOS UOP Representative (2023-2024) Student Government Supervisor in High School (2018-2020)

Interests: I really like cooking and have recently been trying to bake as well! I also enjoy collecting cute stationery, robot models, and I like playing video games in my free time.

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 at 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, Year 2

Experiences: PALS Peer Mentor (2026–Present), Markham Stouffville Hospital – MRI Volunteer (2025–Present), Certified Lip Tattoo Artist (2024–Present), Food Basics – Front-End Supervisor (2022–2025), McDonald’s – Crew Trainer (2020–2022), Parent/Teacher Meeting Volunteer (2019)

Interests: I enjoy spending my free time doing my makeup and nails while watching Netflix series, especially mystery/crime TV shows. I love cooking and learning about ways to make healthier but still delicious food. I also enjoy callisthenics and bodyweight training to release stress. I also love learning about different fragrances and trying not to spend all my money on them. 

Academically, some of my favourite courses have been CHY103, CHY113, and BLG144, with CHY113 standing out in particular because of its engaging lab component, which helped connect what we learned in class to real-life applications.

Passions: I’m strongly interested in dentistry because it connects science, healthcare, and aesthetics in a way that feels very aligned with who I am and want to be. I’ve always been drawn to detailed, hands-on work, starting with things like nail art, makeup, and eventually lip tattooing. Over time, I became more interested in how that same precision can be used in a clinical setting to improve both health and confidence.

What stands out to me about dentistry is how it brings together beauty and health rather than separating them. I like that it allows me to make a real difference in someone’s life, not only physically through oral health and function, but also emotionally by improving confidence and how they feel about themselves. I like the idea of working in a field where I can use both my eye for detail and my interest in science in a practical and meaningful way.

Advice: Go into first year with an open mind and a willingness to try new things, without limiting yourself because you think, “It’s not who I am.” Some of the most meaningful growth comes from experiences you never expected to enjoy or succeed in, so it’s important not to rule things out too quickly. Even if something doesn’t seem like a natural fit at first, giving it a chance can help you discover strengths, interests, and opportunities you might not have found otherwise.

At the same time, stay grounded and take time to reflect on your experiences so you can learn from them and continue to grow. University is as much about discovering who you are as it is about academics, and that growth comes from being open to new challenges while adapting based on what you learn about yourself along the way.

Additional Languages: Persian

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 2

Experiences: Fast Food Crewmember (2025),
High School Library Technician & Assistant (2024-2025),
High School Chaplaincy Team Leader (2023-2025),
Credit Valley Conservation Volunteer (2024),
High School’s South East Asian Student Alliance Executive (2024-2025)

Interests: My go-to hobbies are baking and cooking. They are outlets that give me creative liberty to create something from nothing. It’s possible to make so many complex dishes using simple ingredients and different cooking techniques that manipulate the textures, tastes, and the chemical structures of these base components. I further appreciate that it provides a sense of achievement and nearly instant gratification (from eating it). 

I also enjoy playing video games (BG3,CK3,FO4,KCD2,P4G,Stardew), and this summer I’m learning(attempting) how to play the keyboard alongside music theory. My favourite course has been CHY113.

Passions: I am passionate about the creative process that is seen in art. Creativity is the most important quality a person can have, yet it is often neglected. 

For the upcoming second year, I am excited to be delving deeper into the different chemistry focuses, especially organic chemistry. Though I’ve heard about the struggles associated with it, I’m ready for the challenge (I think). I believe by the end of second year, I will have a better understanding of what I want to do regarding research and my life after I graduate.

Advice: If I could redo the first semester, I would try to spend more time on campus. I would recommend exploiting the TMU facilities, such as using the SLC/library for studying instead of your home. In the former, you usually find people who actually do work and can provide inspiration.

Being on campus also provides a university essential: socialization. I know firsthand that being alone on campus is hard, and the transition to university is difficult enough on its own. Easing this burden is supplemented by having people you can joke with, sit with, and discuss course content with, so they can keep your social needs satisfied, while you’re simultaneously engaged with the course.

For me, talking to people in labs was the easiest way to get to know someone since you’re already in close proximity with a common interest (the course). Plus, the lab (depending on the course) puts you in a situation where you need to work together in order to do well. Signing up for social events posted on TMU-associated Instagram accounts or the Faculty of Science course shell also provides an outlet for socialization.

Additional Languages: Low-intermediate french (A2)

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 3

Interests: I like to sleep

Passions: PhD chemistry or MASc nuclear engineering

Advice: The worst thing I’ve done in university is shut everyone and everything out. I would tell my past self to get out of this hollow hole. It is the worst thing anyone can do as a freshman.

Additional Languages: Cantonese

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 2

Experiences: 1st and 2nd year Rep of the Chemistry Course Union (2025-present)
Swim Instructor and Lifeguard (2023- Present)

Interests:  Some hobbies I have are playing video games and working out. I currently play Rainbow Six Siege because it keeps making me mad, but I can’t stop playing. I also played rugby for four years, and it is the sport I enjoy the most. I also played curling for 2 years, but I happen to be terrible at the sport. 

My favourite course was CHY113 because I was finally able to do chemistry labs, which I love.

Passions: I am really passionate about chemistry; it is my major for a reason. It is such a vast and interesting topic that I could never stop learning. In the future, I wish to have a career after my bachelor's degree. If not, I will pursue something in research

Advice: The best advice for any first-year student is to take breaks. University is tough for many people, and the mental and physical strain can easily catch up to you when overwhelmed with 5-6 courses in your first semester. Taking breaks allows you to do your assignments and study at 100%, which is way better than doing anything when you feel terrible. When I was in my first year, I was just working non-stop and got burnt out right around midterms and did terrible on some of them, all because I didn’t give my mind and body the proper time to relax. 

Another piece of advice is to explore the many events that TMU hosts; it is an amazing way to take your mind off of studying, and it is one of the best ways to make friends, even as an introvert (speaking from experience). Also, they have some amazing food for free, which I would personally never turn down

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 3

Experiences: As a tutor, I’ve had the opportunity to guide a lot of post-secondary students academically and help them with library resources specifically for STEM-related courses. I’ve also been part of organizing events, hosting new fun programs both academic and social, and a bit of administration as well.
Additionally, I’ve been the troop leader of my scouting group, for which I was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate, and I volunteered as an IT support for the IEEE 5G Summit.

Interests: Playing games and active sports is my go-to for passing time, but Go Karting will always be my favorite thing to do. Also, drawing + painting is really fun, but it requires a lot of time, so only once in a blue moon. And anything that I haven’t already done, a new camping spot? Skiing? Boating? Sure! Playing video games was a part of this, but I am tired of waiting for GTA 6 now.

Passions: I’ve been deeply interested in AI for the last 2 years with a specific focus on Edge AI and deploying systems on resource-constrained devices rather than relying on cloud infrastructure for latency-sensitive applications. I am eager to go further into agentic AI and intelligent automation, both technically and as a business application and am currently building side projects in this space and collaborating with a group of friends on an early-stage (hopefully) venture.

Advice: To all first-year students, I’d like to pass along a piece of advice that was given to me when I was in their shoes. University is going to be a rollercoaster ride with plenty of highs and lows. Now, how much you enjoy the experience is ultimately up to you and your perspective.

Also, I’d say first year is an experiment, so go out and try as many things as possible, whether it is approaching a professor for an RA position, exploring the campus, feeding the squirrels near Kerr Hall or playing arcades in RCC. Find out what you enjoy and build on it in the upcoming years. And yeah, play hard, study hard.

Additional Languages: English, French, Hindi, Gujarati

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 4

Experiences: IT System & Programmer Co-op - Public & Business Services & Procurement (MPBSDP) 2026-Present
Data Science Director - Metropolitan Data Science Association (MDSA) - 2026-Present
Peer Academic Leader in Science(PALS) - 2026-Present
President - Toronto Met Sindhi Association - 2025-Present
Convocation Ceremony Operations - TMU (2025)
Quality Assurance Intern - Unity Health Toronto (2024-2025)
Fos - Board of Directors - TMSU (2024)
Director of Events - Corporate Social Responsibility Society (2024-2025)
General associate - Global Management Students’ Association (2024)

Passions: My goal is to establish myself in AI, particularly as an AI engineer, and eventually use that experience to build something of my own in that space.

Advice: The best thing I did in university was to say yes to opportunities I felt unqualified for. The second best was failing at some of it and surviving anyway, so my advice is to stop waiting to feel ready. You won't. Join the club, email the prof, raise your hand in a 100-person lecture. And when something goes wrong, give yourself some grace - first year is supposed to be messy. The people who get the most out of science aren't the ones who knew everything coming in, they're the ones who weren't afraid to look a little clueless while figuring it out.

If I could redo my first year, I would start sooner, stress less, and stay curious because a degree opens the door, but curiosity gets you everywhere a degree can't :)

Additional Languages: Urdu, Sindhi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 2

Experiences: Peer Academic Leader in Science(PALS) - 2026-Present

During high school, I volunteered as a STEM Teaching Assistant at Oakridge Junior Public School, where I supported students with classroom activities, answered questions, and encouraged their interest in science and technology. This experience strengthened my communication, patience, and mentorship skills. I was also involved in my school's Business Club, where I developed my teamwork and problem-solving skills through business-related competitions and activities. One of my proudest achievements was winning 1st Place in JA Central Ontario's Investment Strategies Program (Sponsored by Questrade) in the Fall 2022 season. In this program, I participated in an investment simulation where I managed a portfolio and ultimately finished with the highest value among participants across the country. This experience taught me the importance of strategic thinking, decision-making, and adapting in a competitive environment.

Interests: Outside of school, I enjoy hobbies that let me be creative and relax. I love doing my own nails because it is a form of self-care that allows me to express my creativity and attention to detail. Also, I enjoy embroidery, collecting cute trinkets, and watching K-dramas in my free time.

Passions: I'm passionate about computer science because it's a field that's constantly evolving. Every year, there are new technologies, ideas, and innovations to learn. Today’s world is all about using technology to solve real-world problems, improve people's lives, and work alongside rapidly growing fields like artificial intelligence. I'm excited to continue developing my technical skills while also learning how to collaborate with others, communicate ideas effectively, and build projects that make a meaningful impact. Through university, I hope to explore different areas of computer science, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to projects that combine creativity, innovation, and technology.

Advice: One piece of advice is that although grades matter, it can feel draining if academics become your entire university experience. You should make time to build a community by talking to classmates, joining clubs, attending campus events, and asking for help when you needed. During my first year, I focused heavily on my coursework and later realized that I missed some great opportunities to connect with people. Looking back, I learned that having a supportive community boosts your confidence, makes university more enjoyable, and can help you succeed academically. The people you meet can become your study buddies, support system, and friends who make university feel a lot less overwhelming. Lastly, don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Almost everyone is looking to make friends. Sometimes all it takes is introducing yourself or starting a conversation to build a lasting connection.

Additional Languages: Bengali

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 3

Experiences: I’ve held leadership roles such as Student Council President, Press Team Executive, and Vice President of Events for TMU student groups. Through these positions, I’ve managed teams, coordinated communications, and helped plan and host large-scale technology events for students, professionals, and community partners.

I’m also involved with external organizations that create more space for Muslim women in technology and marketing. This has allowed me to explore community building, outreach, branding, and storytelling.

Outside school, I’ve volunteered at community events, supported a nonprofit serving children with intellectual disabilities, worked with LIV Golf, and participated in a community Aesthetic Revamp Project involving murals and public-space restoration. In high school, I was involved in MUN, robotics, debate, badminton, art competitions, tutoring, and cybersecurity campaigns.

Interests: My interests sit somewhere between technology, creativity, and curiosity. I enjoy graphic design, photography, spray/painting, sketching, crocheting, baking, cooking, movies, and badminton.

I’m especially drawn to art and photography because they encourage me to notice details and perspectives that are easy to miss. I also enjoy community projects, exploring new places, learning about different cultures through food, and collecting random facts that may or may not ever become useful.

Passions: I’m passionate about technology, but also about how it connects with design, communication, and people. Computer science lets me build ideas, while marketing and graphic design help me understand how those ideas can be shared meaningfully.

Photography and art are equally important to me. I love exploring how the same subject can look completely different depending on the person, angle, medium, or context. That curiosity shapes how I approach technology, culture, leadership, and everyday life.

I hope to keep travelling, learning, volunteering, and creating opportunities for people who may not always feel represented. One of my long-term goals is to start a nonprofit organization with a friend.

Advice: Ask questions early. A short conversation with a professor, TA, advisor, or classmate can save you from spending a week quietly confused.

Choose a realistic course load, use campus resources, attend office hours, and get involved in activities that genuinely interest you. Also, explore Toronto and make time for yourself outside school.

Most importantly, remember that nearly everyone is trying to make friends. Introduce yourself, attend events, and accept a little awkwardness. A lot can begin with one conversation.

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

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Mathematics, Year 2

Experiences: PALS Peer Mentor (2026–2027), Pharmacy Assistant (Volunteer), Assistant Project Coordinator (Co-op), Assistant Coach with Jays Care Foundation, Library Ambassador (Volunteer). Experience supporting students, youth programs, customer service, and administrative tasks.

Interests: I enjoy creating Notion templates, exploring new cafés, reading, spending time with friends, and learning about technology and productivity tools. Some of my favourite subjects are mathematics, biology, and chemistry. I also enjoy staying active and exploring different career paths in healthcare.

Passions: I am interested in healthcare and hope to pursue a career in dentistry in the future. I am eager to learn more about patient care, healthcare environments, leadership, and ways to support students throughout their university experience. I also enjoy learning about personal development, productivity, and new technologies.

Advice: My biggest piece of advice is not to compare yourself to others. Everyone moves through university at a different pace, and it's okay if things don't go exactly as planned. Get involved early, ask for help when you need it, and don't be afraid to talk to professors, TAs, and other students. If I could do first year again, I would spend less time stressing about having everything figured out and more time building connections and trying new opportunities.

Additional Languages: Dari

Get in Touch: Email