Peer Academic Leaders in Science (PALS)

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: 2024-2025 PALS Lead, Volunteering at Hospitals in the GTA & High-School, Researching within Science.

Interests: I love to crochet, cross stitch, play ball hockey and football, Microbiology & Calculus.

Passions: I would love to continue my path in Medicine, as well as pursuing research in microbiology & cancer cells.

Advice: First year is not easy for many people and that is normal! My number one recommendation is to always meet your needs in terms of how many courses to take. Lots of people struggle with grades as it is hard to maintain a full course load. Moreover, make really good friends as they help you in school and outside of TMU. And lastly, it is going to be okay! Once you're done with first semester you get the hang of it :)

Additional Languages: Pashto, Québécois French, Urdu, Turkish, Conversational Arabic

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: USSTM Secretary 2024/2025, RRE Research Trainee, Mammal Nursery Intern at the Toronto Wildlife Centre, volunteer at Sherbourne Animal Hospital, peer tutor/notetaker

Interests: Watching animes/k-dramas, listening to music/podcasts, reading, cooking, biking

Passions: I’d like to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and will be applying to vet school very soon! I also have an interest in research, environmental/humanitarian activism and history!

Advice: Make use of the wealth of resources offered! If you're struggling in classes, attend SLGs, get a peer-tutor, sign up for a peer-notetaker or utilize one of the many accommodation services. If you have time between classes, sign up for one of the various free sessions offered at the RAC or grab some free stuff/food at one of the events being held by clubs and student leadership groups! There's always stuff to do on campus and it's a great way to meet people and make friends.

Additional Languages: Telugu, Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: PALS leader, Undergraduate Recruitment Ambassador, founder of a non-profit, research student for faculty of science, Hemoglobal executive VP, Biology course union

Interests: Work as a Recruitment ambassador for TMU, love fashion, art, fitness, traveling and watching Netflix. My favorite classes are cell biology and biochemistry

Passions: cancer biology and health research

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: English, Urdu, conversational Canadian french

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

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 first and 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: Chemistry, Year 2

Experiences: Volunteer Experience: Calgary Zoo camp volunteer, Serving food for my high school for all 3 years

Work Experience: cook at Joey’s and a small restaurant back in Calgary called Holy Cow, HR Intern for Avis.

Interests: I’m the type to stay indoors reading a good book, playing games on my computer, or drawing. I recently started watching F1 and have been a bit obsessed.

Passions: I’d like to go into the pharmaceutical area to help create potential cures for the future. After the pandemic, my goal was to support research and find ways to help the world overcome any medical issues yet to come.

Advice: It is okay to fail. Your worth isn’t determined by a grade or by a comment someone made. First year is all about making mistakes and learning from them. Do not stress over every little detail that occurs.
University is a learning experience, so don’t expect to be perfect.

Additional Languages: Portuguese, Spanish

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Mathematics and its Applications, Year 4

Experiences: PALS leader, Part of SDZ Momentum Program, Mobile solution Specialist at Best Buy, Back office Intern at SBI Canada, Math Tutor at Best Brains, Centre Manager at Adore India

Interests: Reading books, Learning languages, Dancing, drawing sketches, PILATES, Mathematics, Computer Science and Literature

Passions: I have always been ardent about Mathematics. I wanna pursue actuarial sciences going forward and take upon leadership's role and keep growing in the industry as much as possible.

Advice: For first-year science students, my advice would be:

1. **Stay Curious and Engaged:** Science is all about curiosity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out new information, and explore topics that interest you deeply.

2. **Time Management:** Balance is key. Create a schedule that allows you to stay on top of your studies, but also make time for relaxation and social activities to avoid burnout.

3. **Build a Strong Foundation:** Focus on understanding core concepts in your courses, as these will be crucial for more advanced topics later on. Don’t just memorize facts—aim to understand the underlying principles.

4. **Use Resources:** Take advantage of all the resources available to you, such as professors’ office hours, study groups, tutoring centers, and online materials.

5. **Network:** Form study groups and connect with peers and professors. Building a support network can provide academic help and create lasting friendships and professional connections.

6. **Stay Organized:** Keep track of assignments, exams, and deadlines. Use planners, apps, or calendars to help manage your time and responsibilities effectively.

7. **Take Care of Yourself:** Prioritize your mental and physical health. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

If I could change something about my first year, I would:

**Get Involved Earlier:** I was initially hesitant to join clubs or participate in extracurricular activities, thinking they would detract from my study time. However, getting involved in student organizations, research opportunities, or science clubs can provide practical experience, enhance your resume, and offer a more enriching university experience. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded individuals and discover new interests and passions.

Additional Languages: English, Hindi, French

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 3

Experiences: PALS leader, member of convocation student staff summer 2024, volunteer experience at Good Shepherd, event coordinator.

Interests: Writing and reading poetry, movies, cooking, sports

Passions: Computers, tech and poetry intrigue me.

Advice: My advice to the newcomers is that it is okay to not excel in semester Never compare with someone else’s progress rather focus on your own thing and set your particular target. Remember to give peace to your mind. And try covering up your assignments or study portions from time to time to not fall behind.

Additional Languages: Punjabi and Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Medical Physics, Year 4

Experiences: Private tutor, TMU AKCSE committee, CKC 2022 conference volunteer, supermarket worker

Interests: Soccer, video games, and walking while listening to audiobooks/classical music.

Passions: I’d like to explore and continue studying medical physics through the graduate program.

Advice: Engaging with the upper years and the professor! Learning about your program/courses gives you a sense of direction and a boost of academic interest.

Additional Languages: Korean

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: Volunteer at Lakeridge Health, Part-time Employee at a Grocery Store, Social Media Manager for the MSA Club in High School, & Volunteer at a local Mosque

Interests: I'm passionate about a few things like diving into books, expressing myself through painting & baking, and keeping up with the latest in fashion.

Passions: I am currently pursuing a degree in Biology with a minor in Human Resources. As a result, I’m passionate about integrating my knowledge in biology with practical medical applications to improve patient care. Additionally, I am eager to explore how advancements in technology can enhance these medical fields and contribute to better health outcomes.

Advice: To first-year science students, I would advise taking advantage of online course options, like those offered through the Chang School, to manage your course load more effectively. Moreover, prioritize your mental health and well-being by balancing your academic responsibilities with self-care and relaxation. Additionally, building a strong support community of friends, mentors, and advisors can provide invaluable guidance and encouragement. Remember, a well-rounded approach is key to long-term success and happiness in your studies.

Additional Languages: Urdu, and Conversational French

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 3

Experiences: PALS Leader, Volunteer at non-profit organizations, Event Coordinator, Counsellor, Academic Mentor and Tutor

Interests: Traveling, learning new languages and reading books. My favorite course is Computer Organization.

Passions: Tech, Leadership, Philanthropy

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 excel academically while also making time for relaxation and social activities to avoid burnout.
Take advantage of professors' office hours, TAs' and online resources to enhance your learning experience.

Form study groups, connect with peers, and network with professors. A strong support network can provide academic assistance and foster lasting friendships and professional relationships.Additional Languages: English, Urdu, Hindi, Arabic and Telugu

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 2

Experiences: Secretary at WUSC TMU, PALS Leader, Head Faculty at MS immigration service centre, Front Desk Agent at New York News

Interests: Acting, Stage performances, hands on experiences, research oriented, Public Speaker, Academic Advising, Writer

Passions: I am here to fulfill my dream of medicine. Currently pursuing my pre-med at TMU in Biomedical Science I am so excited to get into research programs in Fall Semester. I am more into Gynecology and love reading anything and everything about women’s reproductive health. i have always been a bit more sensitive than others regarding women’s health and have dream to bring outstanding research outcomes to help solve every minor and ignored issue with women’s health.

Advice: Its always exciting to start the wonderful new journey with people from different cultures. Meeting new friedns and making beautiful memories of bachelors life. This all things may sound good but is sometimes just a hypothetical scenario for students who are not able to mingle with new people. For those students just try to communicate with people and try setting a good balance with people around you to make good friends who can be a great asset to you in later parts of your TMU journey. If you feel nervous and uncomfortable I am there to help you out and meet and connect with new people out there at TMU. Of Course academic excellence is must throughout the jounnry to open up new opportunities in later parts but its not all. Things dont end up there, proactiveness in sports, cultural richness, volunteering, class activities… everything matters. So try to bring the beat out of you to make it the most memorable experience. Also Tmu provides assistance with everything its just freshers need to be well versed with all the facilities so that they can grab the maximum out of it. I can try to be the best resource for you

Additional Languages: Gujarati, Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 2

Experiences: Member of TMU’s MGA, Social Media Coordinator for STEM Club in High School, Volunteered at Non-Profit Organizations, Worked in Youth in Policing DRPS

Interests: Swimming, Baking, Reading, Biking, Watching TV

Passions: Passionate about pursuing career in the healthcare industry

Advice: Understand that it is a completely new experience for most. Do not get too overwhelmed, it is important to have fun. That being said, do take school seriously, use the first year to learn what works for you, whether it be using the learning supports offered in TMU, going to office hours or learning by yourself.

Additional Languages: Gujarati, Hindi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Year 3

Experiences: Ultimate Frisbee Coaching; SciXchange Summer Outreach Lead and Volunteer

Interests: Competitive Ultimate Frisbee, Biking around Toronto, Making/ Drinking Matcha Lattes, Watching Movies Fav course: BLG411

Passions: At the moment, I am interested in pursuing research, specifically cell signaling in diabetes

Advice: Exploring new studying methods! Your high school studying habits might not work in University with the tight time crunch of lab reports and exams. The key to thriving academically is to find the study method that works for you, which could look different in every course. Make sure to develop a realistic studying schedule, like knowing which part of the day you are most productive, with study breaks and stick to it!

Join clubs, sports teams or other extracurriculars! Among many other things, sports is one of the reasons why I can get by each semester. While it is more difficult to handle the student-athlete life, it is a great outlet or break from studying and vice versa. Not only will you be learning new skills, you’ll also be meeting wonderful people of the same passion and making lifelong friendships or connections.

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 3

Experiences: Director of Social Media at (TMSAA) 2022-23, Volunteer at Science Rendezvous 2023, Won 1st place at sustainability track at MetHacks 2023, Participant at Sprout 2023

Interests: Music, cooking, sports

Passions: Coding, Computers, Tech

Advice: First year can be overwhelming, but keep calm and explore different things as much as possible. Things like having your own time at the harbourfront to applying to jobs on/off campus, even if your resume is blank. Trying things once is better than not trying at all. Be confident, and make sure to take care and love yourself.

Additional Languages: Hindi and Gujarati

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Computer Science, Year 2

Experiences: Part of TMU’s MGA, Photographer / content creator for BAPS UAE & Toronto, Volunteer for the Embassy of India Abu Dhabi, UAE

Interests: Photography, films, almost anything spontaneous, F1

Passions: Almost anything creative interests me, so something that blends my love for computers and art.

Program/Year: Biomedical Sciences, Co-op, Year 3

Experiences: Returning PALS Leader, Quality Lab Analyst, Crash Course Coordinator for USSTM, VP Operations for AUWS (Association of Undergraduate Women in Science), Muslim Circle of Canada (MCC) Member & Leader, SciXchange Social Media Volunteer, previously a Survey caller for COVID-19

Interests: Painting enough to cover all my bedroom walls, watching K-dramas, exploring new cuisines/cultures, ultimate frisbee and soccer (although I only like watching it), favourite courses so far: psychology and cell biology

Passions: Traveling, 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: Biology, Year 2

Experiences: beautyTMU Founder, Pre-Med Society VP of Events, hospital administration & emergency department volunteering, fundraising with the Canadian Cancer Society, high school tutoring/mentoring/women’s empowerment/STEM clubs/mental health research & writing/library leading, retail part-time, over 700 volunteer hours in ECs

Interests: Self-care, personal growth & development, going to the gym, taking walks/biking alone, reading, cooking, researching anatomy/medical topics

Passions: Aside from the various biological topics like microbiology and genetics, I’m really passionate about everything anatomy! I enjoy researching how hospitals can integrate engineering expertise with AI into hospitals for effective treatment methods. I would love to pursue a career in the business field among this topic alongside a career in emergency medicine in the near future.

Advice: Take care of yourself and always put yourself first. University gets lonely, and everyone has their priorities, including you. Take advantage of all the resources around you, and build a strong yet small circle of healthy relationships with friends, professors, and advisors. Most importantly, remember it’s not the end of the world when you fail an exam (or a class), lose friends, don’t know your career path, or when things don’t go as planned- everything always works out in the end. Believe in yourself always because not everyone will, and trust the process. :-)

Additional Languages: Urdu, Hindi, French, Spanish, conversational Punjabi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: VP of Operations in the TMU Mental Health Science Association, Student Council President and Peer Mentor in high school

Interests: Some of my interests include fashion, music, and reading. In the summer, I enjoy going on walks to explore the city and find new places!

Advice: Join a club! Even though it may seem intimidating, there are many clubs on campus catering to all types of interests. Joining such groups can help connect with people who also share similar passions to create lasting memories and friendships.

Additional Languages: Farsi

Get in Touch: Email

Program/Year: Chemistry, Year 2

Experiences: PALS leader, private math tutor, treasurer for my high school Inter-House, part-time employee in the food and beverage industry, SciXchange event logistics volunteer

Interests: Video games, K-pop, watching anime and K-dramas, crocheting, swimming, tennis

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: Biology, Year 3

Experiences: Volunteer at William Osler Health & Women’s empowerment club founder in High School

Interests: I enjoy reading books, taking walks, and exploring new places

Passions: I am currently pursuing a degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. ​​My passion for bioinformatics arises from a deep fascination with both biology and technology. The idea of using computational tools to unravel the complexities of biological systems excites me, as it combines my love for data analysis with the mysteries of life sciences.

Advice: Build a Strong Foundation: Focus on understanding the basics in your courses, as they are the building blocks for more advanced topics. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek help if you're struggling with a concept.

Manage Your Time Wisely: Science courses often have demanding schedules with labs, lectures, and assignments. Create a study schedule, prioritize your tasks, and avoid procrastination.

Get Involved: Join science clubs, research groups, or student organizations related to your interests. This can help you meet like-minded peers, network with professors, and gain practical experience.

Additional Languages: Arabic and Assyrian

Get in Touch: Email