International Students

Climate Change

Sustainability

U of T Mississauga

Subheadline

“What’s happening at UTM is truly inspiring, and it’s an honour to spread awareness about it in the global community”

When Vera Allue learned that she would represent the University of Toronto Mississauga at COP29 in Azerbaijan, it reaffirmed her belief that she made the right choice as an international student dedicated to climate action.

A first-year student from Spain, Allue says she didn’t realize the scale of U of T’s leadership in sustainability until she came to the university.

“I knew everything here was very modern, and I noticed all the small but important ways that the campus promotes sustainability in areas like waste management and food services – but I didn’t know about the systems and infrastructure behind it,” says Allue, who is pursuing a double major in economics and political science with a minor in environmental law and policy.

“Then I read UTM’s [Climate Positive Plan] to achieve carbon-neutrality by 2043.”

The plan, which includes a commitment – adopted by all three campuses – to become climate-positive by 2050, is one of several initiatives that Allue will spread the word about at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, beginning Nov. 11 and ending Nov. 22.

She’s also going to showcase U of T Mississauga’s local strategies to address climate change, in addition to its array of educational and research programs on environmental issues – efforts that have contributed to U of T being named the most sustainable university in the world in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.

“What’s happening at UTM is truly inspiring, and it’s an honour to spread awareness about it in the global community,” says Allue, who also looks forward to sharing her learnings from the conference with the U of T Mississauga community when she returns.

For Allue, attending the pre-eminent global gathering on climate change is a culmination of her efforts to engage with and raise awareness about climate issues.

When she was only 15 years old, she started a recycling and wastewater project in her hometown of Soria in northern Spain. “I wanted to educate my peers about what they could do, because climate action is often perceived as something that belongs to powerful stakeholders,” she says.

Allue has also been involved with several international organizations that encourage youth to participate in politics and civil society, with a strong focus on environmental issues: she’s currently a European Union (EU) Young European Ambassador and a member of the European Youth Energy Network, which she will also represent at COP29.

Vera Allue started a recycling and wastewater management project in her community when she was 15 (photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

During her short time at U of T, Allue has gotten involved in several sustainability initiatives, including the UTM Sustainability Ambassador program and the Student Association for Geography, Geomatics and the Environment (SAGE).

She says the support she has received from U of T Mississauga’s Sustainability Office in attending COP29 is proof of the university’s steadfast belief in students’ potential to effect change.

“What I'm really looking forward to is bringing to COP29 the sense of belonging and pride that I feel in UTM’s climate action,” says Allue.

“When I first started contributing to the environmental field, I felt like my voice was barely heard. Now I feel so much optimism because I’ve found spaces like UTM that actively encourage young people to speak up and participate.”

For this U of T grad from Sri Lanka, giving up was never an option

rahul.kalvapalle — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:08:09 +0000

For this U of T grad from Sri Lanka, giving up was never an option

rahul.kalvapalle Tue, 11/05/2024 - 11:08

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Rashmi de Silva Wijeyeratne graduated with an honours bachelor of science in psychology from U of T Scarborough after a tumultuous start to her post-secondary education (photo by Don Campbell)

Topic

U of T Scarborough

Subheadline

Rashmi de Silva Wijeyeratne spent three years pursuing an illegitimate degree in Sri Lanka, before starting over at U of T Scarborough

Rashmi de Silva Wijeyeratne was only two months away from completing an undergraduate program in Sri Lanka when she found out that the degree she’d spent years working towards wasn’t accredited.

Wijeyeratne had studied at an institution affiliated with a British university and was told that she would earn a degree from that university – but when she visited the U.K. and toured the campus, she found out that wasn’t the case.

A devastated Wijeyeratne dropped out of the program, but soon turned her energy towards starting over with her undergraduate studies, applying to the University of Toronto Scarborough’s Arts & Science Co-op program.

On Oct. 29, eight years after she first set out in pursuit of post-secondary education in Sri Lanka, Wijeyeratne crossed the stage at Convocation Hall, graduating with an honours bachelor of science in psychology.

“A lot of people ask me, ‘How did you restart?’ I think so many of us are capable of so much more in terms of resilience,” said Wijeyeratne, now 27. “When we are faced with a situation, you don't just give up, you want to fight, you want to try again.

“It was hard, but I didn't see giving up as an option.”

It’s an ethos that Wijeyeratne espoused throughout her time at U of T. Although the setback in Sri Lanka was behind here when she arrived in Canada, there were more challenges lying in wait.

Starting her U of T studies during the COVID-19 pandemic, Wijeyeratne had to do the first month of her studies remotely from Sri Lanka. When she finally got to Canada, she spent two weeks in quarantine in a Toronto hotel, and then, right when she was allowed to leave, her grandfather died.

Wijeyeratne had to miss the funeral, as there was no way for her to make it to Sri Lanka on time, and she would have had to quarantine again upon her return to Canada. She couldn’t see her family for two years due to ever-changing travel restrictions and the fear of being trapped outside of Canada.

Despite being alone in Canada, Wijeyeratne threw herself into academics as well as extra-curricular opportunities, albeit on her computer screen. Once vaccines became available and restrictions eased, she got to work reviving multiple campus groups, including as vice-president and, eventually, president of the UTSC Glee Club. She was also finally able to welcome her parents to Canada.

A self-described arts kid – she hails from a family of prominent performers in Sri Lanka’s musical theatre scene - Wijeyeratne nevertheless developed a love of biology, clinical medicine and health care at U of T.

An avid musician, Wijeyeratne hails from a family of musical theatre performers in Sri Lanka (supplied image)

She volunteered in several labs and completed a co-op placement at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in the lab of senior scientist Jeffrey Meyer, a professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s department of psychiatry. Her work led to her being listed as a co-author in the first study to find a natural supplement that reduces post-partum depression.

She also completed a work-study position as a research assistant in the TEMPO Lab, headed by Assistant Professor Laura Cirelli – who also supervised her undergraduate thesis – and went on to work as a lab coordinator there. The lab combines several of Wijeyeratne’s interests: it’s dedicated to investigating the psychological impact that music has on babies and children.

With Cirelli’s encouragement, Wijeyeratne presented her thesis – an investigation into how grandparents connect with their grandchildren over Zoom – at the Society for Music Perception and Cognition conference in Banff, Alta. in July.

“One of the most rewarding parts of being a professor at U of T Scarborough is working with and getting to know passionate students like Rashmi,” Cirelli says. “It was especially inspiring to see Rashmi shine at the conference this summer. She presented with clarity and pride.”

For her part, Wijeyeratne says being a member of the TEMPO Lab and getting mentored by Cirelli was “life-changing.”

Outside the research realm, Wijeyeratne also found time to pick up hands-on skills, working her way up U of T Scarborough’s Emergency Medical Response Group to become a trained emergency first responder.

She's now looking forward to her next chapter: working as a research analyst in CAMH’s emergency department starting in November.

“It's been such a non-traditional trajectory towards getting here,” Wijeyeratne says. “But my proudest achievement is being able to make my family proud. I’m so grateful for their love and support and I would not be where I am without them.”

'Hyperpolyglot' U of T grad speaks 11 languages… and counting

rahul.kalvapalle — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 13:26:26 +0000

'Hyperpolyglot' U of T grad speaks 11 languages… and counting

rahul.kalvapalle Tue, 07/30/2024 - 09:26

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Xin Yi Lim discovered her passion for Hispanic linguistics while completing her bachelor's degree at U of T (all photos supplied)

Cynthia Macdonald

Topic

Spanish & Portuguese

Linguistics

Varsity Blues

Subheadline

Xin Yi Lim, who will receive her master’s degree in Hispanic linguistics this fall, says “it’s like I have 11 channels in my brain.”

Born in Malaysia, Xin Yi Lim was raised in a family where English, Malay, Mandarin and Cantonese were all spoken regularly – but that was merely a jumping off point for her multilingual talents.

The University of Toronto student, who will officially graduate this fall, is conversationally proficient in 11 languages – five more than are required for a person to be described as a hyperpolyglot.

In addition to the five languages spoken by her family, Lim now also speaks Indonesian, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Turkish and Swahili.

@uoft Meet #UofTGrad24 Xin Yi Lim, who speaks 11 languages 🗣️ Lim is set to graduate this week with a master’s in Hispanic linguistics with a collaborative specialization in diaspora and transnational studies from the department of Spanish and Portuguese in the Faculty of Arts and Science. Originally from Malaysia, Lim says she fell in love with Toronto’s diverse community and hopes to continue living in the city. Following fall convocation, she hopes to pursue a career that combines her passions for graphic design and languages. Discover the full story via our link in bio or at uoft.me/b1j. #UofT #convocation #polyglot #hyperpolyglot ♬ original sound - University of Toronto

And the list continues to grow.

“Languages have opened doors to so many friendships and work opportunities for me,” Lim says. “Learning them is a genuine way of creating connection.”

As part of her master's degree in Hispanic linguistics with a collaborative specialization in diaspora and transnational studies from the department of Spanish and Portuguese in the Faculty of Arts & Science, Lim examined how Spanish evolves and changes for bilingual Colombians in Toronto.

Her linguistic journey began at the age of 12, when she began studying Spanish and joined a team that competed in language competitions.

In addition to language, Lim also competed in figure skating as a member of the Malaysian junior national team. In fact, it was her skating career that inspired her to learn Turkish – after encountering the Turkish national team, and their language, at a training camp in Switzerland.

Lim didn’t intend to focus on languages and linguistics when she arrived at U of T. She initially enrolled in life sciences with the intention of becoming a cardiac surgeon. But it wasn't long before she switched to a specialist program in Spanish.

A key turning point came when she took a course on linguistic varieties of Spanish taught by Professor Laura Colantoni. “She’s an amazing professor and her course was so intriguing, so I decided to pursue linguistics and took more courses with her,” says Lim, who earned an honours bachelor of arts in Spanish with a specialist in Hispanic linguistics and a minor in Latin American studies in 2023.

Along the way, she challenged herself by taking a new language course every year: French, Turkish, Portuguese, Italian and Swahili.

She didn’t need to take a course for Indonesian, though. “Because my dad worked in Indonesia for about 15 years, we picked that up too,” she says.

Lim has competed in and taught figure skating in both Malaysia and Canada

While she added to her list of languages, Lim also advanced her prowess in skating as a member of the Varsity Blues figure skating team in 2020 and 2021. She also holds a 1st Kyu in Kyokushin karate and is a bartender, mixologist and graphic designer.

Going forward, Lim hopes to continue skating professionally, including by performing internationally as a skater with Disney on Ice.

And, no surprise, she also plans to continue expanding her range of languages.

“When you learn another language, you’re really expanding your cognitive load — and that in turn helps you learn your next language,” says Lim, who describes being able to converse in 11 languages as feeling “like I have 11 channels in my brain.”

She adds that the biggest benefit has been her ability to connect with more people and cultures. “Nelson Mandela said, ‘If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart,’” she says.

“After I learned that saying, I never saw languages in the same light. I realized that even if I could only say a couple of words in somebody else’s language, it would let them know how much time, compassion and effort I have for understanding other cultures.”

Next on her list? Arabic. “I’m so interested to learn it. It’s one of the most diverse and popular languages in Toronto, but the script is really challenging,” Lim says.

“That one requires time.”

16-year-old physics grad completes ‘incredible journey’ at U of T

Christopher.Sorensen — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 15:33:09 +0000

16-year-old physics grad completes ‘incredible journey’ at U of T

Christopher.Sorensen Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:33

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Daniel Honciuc Menendez, 16, is the youngest to graduate from the Faculty of Arts & Science, U of T Scarborough or U of Mississauga since at least 1979 (photo by Diana Tyszko)

Chris Sasaki

Topic

Convocation 2024

Physics

University College

Subheadline

Daniel Honciuc Menendez carried out research on dark matter detection and theoretical quantum optics

Daniel Honciuc Menendez was 11 years old when he took part in a summer program in theoretical physics at the Perimeter Institute in Waterloo, Ont., in 2019.

“I’d known for a long time that I wanted a career in physics. But it was in this program that I learned for sure that this was what I wanted to do with my life,” says Honciuc Menendez, who is Ecuadorean and was living in the country's capital Quito at the time.

The trip was his first visit to Canada – and made a big impression. “I liked the openness of the people and the diversity. So I decided that when I applied to universities, I would make sure to apply to universities in Canada.”

After completing high school at age 12, Honciuc Menendez received offers of admission from 12 post-secondary institutions in Canada, the U.S. and Ecuador. He chose the University of Toronto, where he received an International Scholars Award, and began his undergraduate studies as a member of University College.

Honciuc Menendez at 11 years old at the launch of one of his experiments on a rocket with the NASA Cubes in Space program at the Wallops Flight Facility (photo courtesy Daniel Honciuc Menendez)

Now 16 years old, Honciuc Menendez is graduating with a specialist in physics and a major in mathematics with high distinction. He’s the youngest to graduate from the Faculty of Arts & Science, U of T Scarborough or U of T Mississauga since at least 1979, the year the university began tracking such data.

“I’m proud and excited to be graduating,” he says. “It’s the culmination of four years of hard work, research and volunteer experiences. I’m really looking forward to convocation.”

Faculty of Arts & Science writer Chris Sasaki spoke to Honciuc Menendez before his convocation.

When did your interest in science begin?

I started reading at an early age. When I was very young, my mother and I moved often to different countries because of her career. During this time, I was surrounded by a variety of books, including math books, puzzle books, encyclopedias and atlases. They became my early companions and mentors. Also, even before starting school, I was captivated by educational videos, websites and apps about math, physics, chemistry and other subjects. Then, at 4 years old, while living in the U.K., I gained early entrance into grade school and became interested in programming and robotics. I attended every science festival I could. It became clear to me that I wanted to pursue a life in the sciences.

What was your early education like?

Early entrance into grade school in the U.K. was my first ‘grade-skip.’ When I was six years old, we moved back to Ecuador and I wanted to learn more challenging material during my classes. After meetings with my new school, I was encouraged to apply to the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Centre for Talented Youth. Upon passing the entrance tests, I was admitted into the program, which allowed me to take advanced courses.

At nine years old, I skipped another grade and started auditing International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma classes in physics and music. Then, when I was 10 years old, I also took the SAT and with its results, I was allowed to skip four more grades to 11th grade and was also able to join other programs like JHU’s Study of Exceptional Talent. From there, I took a full IB diploma program and graduated from high school at 12 years old.

What research projects were you able to take part in at U of T?

The first was with Professor Miriam Diamond in dark matter detection with the Super Cryogenic Dark Matter Search experiment at SNOLAB, an underground research facility near Sudbury for neutrino and dark matter studies. I developed and tested dark matter detector simulations and conducted data analysis on remote servers.

The second was in theoretical quantum optics with Professor John Sipe at the Centre for Quantum Information & Quantum Control, in which I investigated the theoretical optical response for waveguide-quantum dot systems that could be used as the basis for optical quantum computers.

Throughout both experiences, the collaborative and inclusive spirit of the physics community really inspired me. The professors and researchers provided invaluable mentorship to me and have significantly shaped my decision to pursue a physics research career involving high-energy physics and quantum information.

Honciuc Menendez pursued his interest in music with the Hart House Chamber Strings ensemble (photo courtesy Daniel Honciuc Menendez)

What field are you most interested in now?

I’m interested in quantum information and high-energy physics. Quantum information is a unique field that has applications to various disciplines, since quantum computers can solve various problems that classical computers cannot. I want to specialize in quantum algorithms since they’re essential to realizing the potential of quantum information in its applications, including in my other field of interest, high-energy physics. The more I learn about quantum information's capabilities and its synergy with high-energy physics, the more I realize the significant impact these technologies could have on our understanding of the universe and on advancing computational sciences.

What are your plans after graduation?

I was honored to receive a full scholarship from the European Union to pursue a master's of science in physics with a concentration in quantum science and technology. The program will take place over two years at the Sapienza University of Rome in Italy, then at Université Paris-Saclay in France, and lastly at U of T. I’ll be taking courses and developing my career in quantum technology in academia and industry, and exploring the interdisciplinary possibilities of the quantum science landscape, including in high-energy physics, medicine, cybersecurity and finance. Later, I want to pursue a PhD in physics where I can go deeper into the intersection between quantum information and high-energy physics.

What are your thoughts as you look back at the past four years?

Throughout these years, the support from my friends, professors and mentors at U of T, and the resources provided by University College and U of T’s Accessibility Services have been invaluable and have helped me navigate the complexities of academic life and the personal challenges of being a young student. Plus, all of this would not have been possible without the unconditional support from my mother, a single mom who has been my constant source of strength and inspiration, and who accompanied me as I pursued my studies in Canada.

These past four years have been transformative for me — not just academically but also personally — and were filled with challenges, achievements and growth. It’s been an incredible journey, and I step forward with a heart full of gratitude for the U of T community, ready for the next chapter of my life.

Now U of T grads, three Mastercard Foundation Scholars keen to give back to their communities

geoff.vendeville — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 16:12:25 +0000

Now U of T grads, three Mastercard Foundation Scholars keen to give back to their communities

geoff.vendeville Fri, 06/24/2022 - 12:12

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From left to right: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Gladys Opeoluwa Olubowale, Providence Tatenda Mapingire and Modestus Nzubechi Amaechi.

Topic

Mastercard Scholars

The final cohort of Mastercard Foundation Scholars are graduating from the University of Toronto this spring – the culmination of their journey from Sub-Saharan Africa to Canada.

Nearly a decade ago, U of T was among the first Canadian universities to partner with the Mastercard Foundation to offer talented students from the region an opportunity to study in Canada on a scholarship covering their tuition, travel, housing and other expenses.

Over the years, U of T has welcomed dozens of bright young students through the current iteration of the program – many of whom were eager to help their communities both locally and back home. Michael Samakayi, a Deaf student from Zambia, helped launch an American Sign Language Club on campus and successfully advocated for an undergraduate linguistics course in the Faculty of Arts & Science that focuses on ASL and Deaf culture. Emmanuela Alimlim, the first from her village in Kenya to study abroad, founded an initiative to support and encourage students in Kenya who are seeking to access higher education.

“We are confident that the impact of this inspiring Mastercard scholars’ gift will continue to be felt both here in Canada and in Africa for many years to come,” said David Palmer, vice-president, advancement. “Bolstered by the education and real-world experiences they received through this visionary program, these talented young students are already making a difference in their communities.”

Below, three members of the final, 12-member cohort U of T Mastercard Foundation Scholars – Gladys Opeoluwa Olubowale, Providence Tatenda Mapingire and Modestus Nzubechi Amaechi – reflect on their paths to graduation, from their first impressions of Canadian winters to their post-convocation plans.

Gladys Opeoluwa Olubowale

Home country: Nigeria

Studying: Chemical engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

When I first joined U of T in 2017, I already knew I wanted to pursue research, which is one of the reasons I decided to join the chemical engineering program.

I quickly got involved in research by becoming an undergraduate research assistant in food engineering in my second year. I found many aspects of research work very engaging and rewarding – from working in the lab to working on a research poster.

All this culminated in presenting my research work at Undergraduate Engineering Research Day here at U of T. I found my research work so fulfilling that I decided to work on an independent thesis project. Through this, I went through the process of conducting my research independently in the lab, leading a literature review and presenting to a panel of professors.

All the opportunities I was given to explore my research interests further opened my eyes to the inadequate access to STEM education for so many children in my home country of Nigeria. This led me to develop a project to improve STEM education for elementary and secondary school-aged students in Nigeria. I was able to remotely assemble a team in Nigeria and raise funds to teach coding and buy robotics kits for students. Initially, this was meant to be a one-year project, but it went so successfully that my team and I are currently in the process of registering it as an NGO.

My U of T experience has allowed me to bridge my interest in STEM with my desire to give back – and I’m most grateful for that.

Modestus Nzubechi Amaechi

Home country: Nigeria

Studying: Chemical engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

My U of T journey has been filled with lots of learning experiences. When I came to U of T in my first year, it was quite hard for me to really understand people because it seemed that they spoke too fast and my classes were hard to find. The winter season was very difficult for me, and it was hard to navigate my way to class during the winter semester, but with help of the MCF office and the engineering faculty I was able to get through my first winter semester.

Another good learning experience for me was running for wellness director of the ChemClub in my second year. I was always reserved in my first year and I didn't engage in any activities as I was getting used to many things, but this role opened me up to many opportunities and connections with people in the chemical engineering department.

Providence Tatenda Mapingire

Home country: Zimbabwe

Studying: Finance and economics in the Faculty of Arts & Science

Over the course of my time at U of T as a student at Rotman, I’ve had many opportunities to learn about the world of economics and finance outside of the classroom. Firstly, I secured a position as a part-time junior analyst at FirePower Capital, a Toronto-based investment firm. I learned a great deal from the investment team, many of whom have been working in the finance sector for many years.

I was able to parlay that experience into an internship at Credit Suisse in New York on the global market team. Not only did this allow me to further my knowledge of finance and global market trends, but I also got to experience a different culture in New York. As someone who didn’t have much experience outside of my home country of Zimbabwe until I joined U of T in 2018, getting to live and work in New York opened my eyes to the different work cultures and social mores. I saw how these customs and behaviours overlapped or differed from my own. In addition, I’ve learned how to better understand and relate to people of different cultural backgrounds.

I’ve also had the opportunity to take all that I’ve learned as a student and employee and use it to provide more junior Rotman scholars with advice and mentorship as a career peer at the Rotman Commerce Program. This has shown me the importance of sharing the knowledge one gains with others to help them in their career and in life.

The world comes to U of T: Meet this year’s Pearson Scholars

perry.king — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 13:49:36 +0000

The world comes to U of T: Meet this year’s Pearson Scholars

perry.king Thu, 09/19/2019 - 09:49

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U of T President Meric Gertler (centre), flanked by U of T's Joseph Wong and Sandy Welsh, vice-provost, students, pose with this year's cohort of Pearson Scholars (photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

Perry King

Topic

John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

New College

U of T Mississauga

U of T Scarborough

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

They are 36 future leaders, newly arrived international students who represent 27 countries from around the world. And on Tuesday at Hart House, the latest cohort of Pearson Scholars was officially welcomed to the University of Toronto by President Meric Gertler.

“On behalf of the entire academic community, welcome to the University of Toronto, welcome to the Toronto region, and – because most of you are new to Canada – welcome to Canada,” President Gertler told the students.

He urged the Pearson Scholars to embrace all that U of T has to offer, but also to explore the city-region widely. “I encourage you to immerse yourself in this very special environment in which you find yourselves and make the most of these opportunities – in the classroom, on our campuses, but also in the communities around us,” he said.

The gathering marked the third year of the Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship program, named after Lester B. Pearson, a U of T alumnus, former prime minister and Nobel laureate. The program recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, creativity and leadership – and a commitment to making an impact in their communities.

The scholarship covers four years of study at U of T, including tuition, books, incidental fees and residence support. This year’s students were selected from over 1,200 nominations submitted by high schools worldwide.

Joseph Wong, vice-provost and associate vice-president, international student experience, acknowledged the expectations that Pearson Scholars face. “You will have an impact, go on to do great things, to be great people, but you also can’t do it alone,” he said.

“You’re going have to rely on your friends, family, classmates, the Pearson community, and indeed the community that is the rest of the university.”

At the gathering, U of T News spoke to four of the Pearson Scholars about their lives and their expectations going forward:

Vidur Narayan Channa

(photo by Perry King)

Pathways World School in India
Faculty of Arts & Science, New College
Social sciences student

Vidur Narayan Channa moved around a lot as a child, living in India, Indonesia and Malaysia, and often came face-to-face with poverty and slums.

Joining U of T, he said, will give him the opportunity to look at ways to make a difference in those slums.

“Being exposed to all these different multicultural environments has shown me the ability of economics, of different fields, to make a change,” said Channa, who plans to major in economics and perhaps public policy, computer science or philosophy.

Making a difference is something he takes seriously. “We should recognize every day that you’re in a position of privilege and you have to do something to make people’s lives better,” he said. “That’s what drives me.”

Channa said the Pearson scholarship is allowing him to live and study in a city he has admired from afar.

So far, it has been going well and he has met a lot of people. “Collaborating with them, working together, all the different clubs and activities available here at U of T – I found that it would be a great environment for me to really build a base for myself in the professional world.”

Ecem Sungur

(photo by Perry King)

The Koç School in Turkey
John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
Architectural studies student

Ecem Sungur grew up in Istanbul, a bustling city that features a variety of architectural styles in its buildings. It was there that she developed a passion for architecture, writing a guide to design while in high school.

Sungur arrives at U of T intent on taking that passion further. She will be taking a deeper look into the history of architecture and design, and materials, in order to address questions of sustainability.

“We are currently living in a world full of pollution and, even though we are trying to be sustainable, how is it going to be in the future?” she asked.

So far, Sungur is immersed in architecture – in the classroom, but also in club activities on campus. But she has also become close with her Pearson colleagues, who she describes as “engaging and inclusive.”

“We became like an actual family, and we know so much about each other,” said Sungur. “It’s been nice knowing that coming to a new place like Toronto – I’ve never been to Canada before – you have people you know that you can [rely on].”

Fondzenyuy TonyLouis Verberi

(photo by Perry King)

St. Augustine’s College, Nso, in Cameroon
U of T Scarborough
Physical and environmental sciences student

This is Fondzenyuy TonyLouis Verberi's first time in Canada. The 16-year-old from Cameroon comes to U of T Scarborough looking to deepen his love for astrophysics and astronomy, his intended area of study.

Verberi wants to use his Pearson Scholar experience at U of T to become a leader in astrophysics in his home country.

“It’s a golden opportunity,” said Verberi, who also participated in the STEM Aerospace challenge organized by the New York Academy of Sciences In September 2018.

“Back in Africa, especially in Cameroon, astrophysics is a field which has not been developed in the educational system,” added Verberi, who said he wants to pass on what he learns about satellite development, for example, to the next generation.

“I have to be the first one who sets the target for this to be possible in my country. It is an opportunity for me [and] my dreams of adding astrophysics and aerospace engineering into the educational curricula in my country.”

In the meantime, Verberi's having an easy transition to Canada and U of T. “It’s new and challenging, the educational setup is different from what we have in Cameroon – the digital nature of the assignments and lectures – but I’m picking it up.”

Nikiela Baptiste

(photo by Perry King)

Shiva Boys’ Hindu College,Trinidad and Tobago
U of T Mississauga
Forensic science student

Nikiela Baptiste, who hails from Trinidad and Tobago, has been adjusting to the U of T Mississauga campus, a place she says is peaceful and conducive for studying.

“I’m still in the ‘can’t-believe-it’s-true’ phase, but I’m enjoying my time,” she said.

“I love UTM,” she added. “It’s so cozy and nature-y. I love the fact that it has so many animals like deer – we don’t have deer in Trinidad.”

Baptiste has an interest in human anatomy – how the body works and the effects of chemicals on the body – and is planning on studying forensic science.

“My main expectation is to maintain a good academic standing and continue to be a part of the community as I participate in extracurriculars,” said Baptiste, who will look at joining U of T Mississauga’s research opportunity program in second year.

“My main goal is to get a closer relationship with the professors and understand their research – and how I can be of value.”

Meet four international students in the incoming U of T Engineering class

noreen.rasbach — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 18:42:40 +0000

Meet four international students in the incoming U of T Engineering class

noreen.rasbach Thu, 08/29/2019 - 14:42

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Urvi Verkhedkar, from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, will study chemical engineering at U of T this fall

Liz Do

Topic

Global Lens

Back To School 2019

Global

Residence move-ins, Frosh Week and the first plenary lecture from Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering Dean Christopher Yip: A long list of activities await more than 1,200 U of T Engineering students.

For many, that list also includes exploring Toronto for the very first time – about one in four come from outside of Canada.

Meet four international students from different parts of the world entering their first year at U of T Engineering.

Urvi Verkhedkar (pictured above)

Urvi Verkhedkar, a Pearson Scholar, is in chemical engineering.
Her hometown is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Why U of T Engineering? I have a huge interest in sustainability, and U of T Engineering has so many cool courses and minors related to this area, as well as amazing research – quantum-dot solar cells, studies in urban environments – and extracurriculars: Blue Sky Solar Racing and Engineers Without Borders, to name a few. I feel that I’ll get incredible opportunities to explore my interests in sustainability here.

First-year plans: I’m excited to be studying chemical engineering at U of T, and I’m hoping to pursue a minor in environmental engineering. During my first year, I’m hoping to join some engineering-related design teams to get some hands-on experience, though I’m not sure which. I'm definitely looking forward to trying clubs that get me outdoors, such as mountain biking or the Iron Dragons.

Future goals: After I graduate, I’d like to be involved in a sustainable technology startup, possibly in recycling or eco-friendly manufacturing.

Santiago Gomez Montenegro

Santiago Gomez Montenegro, a Pearson Scholar, is in materials science and engineering.
His hometown is Panama City, Panama.

Why U of T Engineering? I am ecstatic about starting school here because in addition to countless prospects for professional and academic development, the university is at the heart of the city, with great sporting facilities, and an environment that fosters diversity and community-building.

First-year plans: During my first year, I plan to get involved in engineering student clubs, and to search for work and research opportunities. I’m also looking forward to making friends and playing soccer.

Future goals: After I graduate, I would love to be at the forefront of technological innovations in materials design. I aspire to take developments in the field beyond a laboratory and into a business setting where they can be converted into beneficial products.

Sofia Karter Lopez

Sofia Karter Lopez is in engineering science.
Her hometown is Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Why U of T Engineering? Engineering at U of T is among the best in the world and the unique engineering science program really drew me in, as I’ll get to learn about all the engineering disciplines and then choose which one I want to specialize in.

The PEY Co-op program was also important to me as it will make it easier for me to start working once I graduate. And of course, being in such a diverse and vibrant city like Toronto is a big plus.

First-year plans: The first thing I plan to do is start auditioning for musicals! I want to see if I can join any dance classes or clubs and maybe something related to photography, as that’s something I’ve been doing for several years now.

Future goals: I hope to have a career in the engineering field but for now, I’m excited to live in a new place, meet new people, learn new perspectives and discover new ways of seeing things. For the first time I will be studying and learning about exactly the things that I've always really cared about.

Joel Biju Thomas

Joel Biju Thomas is in engineering science.
His hometowns are Kerala, India and Kampala, Uganda.

Why U of T Engineering? I chose U of T Engineering for the new machine intelligence major in engineering science.

First-year plans: I want to learn more about programming. Also, I plan to explore and participate in different clubs – maybe photography and different athletic clubs. I’m looking forward to Frosh Week, meeting new friends and moving into residence.

Future goals: I want to pursue graduate studies in machine learning.

#UofTBackToSchool: 12 things every new student should know

noreen.rasbach — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

#UofTBackToSchool: 12 things every new student should know

noreen.rasbach Fri, 08/23/2019 - 00:00

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(photo by Caz Zyvatkauskas)

Isabel Armiento

Topic

Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office

Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre

Health & Wellness Centre

Accessibility

Centre for International Experience

Health & Wellness Centre (St. George campus)

It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life at the University of Toronto, especially as a new student. Be sure to brush up on these 12 essential campus supports and services ranging from health care to gender diversity before beginning the school year.

Safety

U of T provides many safety resources, including instructions to register for U of T’s 24-hour emergency alert system. U of T also provides emergency housing services, as well as student food banks on the St. George campus in downtown Toronto, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough.

You can also visit the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre for information, resources and workshops. If you are a victim of sexual violence or assault, you are encouraged to contact or visit the centre.

Health and wellness

It’s critical to practise self-care throughout the school year. There are numerous on-campus options for health care. Check out the university’s health and wellness centres for prescriptions, medical care and check-ups.

Health & Counselling Centre (U of T Mississauga)

Health & Wellness Centre (U of T Scarborough)

These centres are also excellent resources for mental health support. All three campuses offer services, including individual psychotherapy, group therapy and same-day counselling. If you need immediate help, you can call the Good 2 Talk Student Helpline, the Gerstein Centre Crisis Line or one of many suicide prevention helplines, chats and texting support services.

Other mental health resources include a walk-in mental health clinic that offers drop-in counselling to students and is located only a 10-minute walk from the St. George campus.

Accessibility

U of T is proud to provide a host of student accessibility services in and out of the classroom. Learn more about the diverse array of accessibility services offered by U of T.

Accessibility Services (St. George campus)

Accessibility Services (U of T Mississauga)

AccessAbility Services (U of T Scarborough)

Gender and sexual diversity

For LGBTQ resources, workshops and events, visit the tri-campus Sexual & Gender Diversity Office’s website. To get involved in the community, check out U of T initiatives such as Positive Space and OUT@UTM or explore more specialized programming such as Que(e)rying Religion.

The Centre for Women and Trans People is an excellent resource for intersectional feminist programming, as well as for providing a safe and harassment-free space for women and trans individuals. Trans students can find essential resources and information, such as how to change your name on official U of T documentation or the locations of all-gender washrooms on campus, here.

Indigenous students

Students hoping to explore and connect with their Indigenous identity can visit First Nations House and the new Indigenous U of T website for supports, events and resources. All members of the U of T community are welcome.

Check out the U of T Mississauga Indigenous Centre or the U of T Scarborough Indigenous Outreach Program for unique programming such as weekly smudge ceremonies, Indigenous film nights and moderated nature walks.

All three campuses offer Indigenous learning opportunities and celebrations accompanied by the knowledge and support of an on-campus Indigenous Elder-in-Residence.

Equity services

As the largest university in the world’s most multicultural city, U of T has taken many strides toward maintaining a diverse, equitable and representative campus, such as its initiative to increase equity and diversity in research and innovation. For more information about supports and resources, visit U of T’s Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office or one of its tri-campus Equity Offices.

Multi-faith services

The university offers several on-campus multi-faith locations, as well as on-campus chaplains and resources for religious accommodations.

For multi-faith prayer and meditation space, faith-based counselling, research opportunities, information on religious retreats and more, visit one of the tri-campus Multi-Faith Centres.

Multi-Faith Centre (St. George campus)

Multi-Faith Spaces (U of T Mississauga)

Multi-Faith Engagement (U of T Scarborough)

International students

Whether you came from abroad to study at U of T or are a domestic student hoping for an international study opportunity, supports and services regarding your international experience are readily available at all three campuses.

Centre for International Experience (St. George campus)

International Education Centre (U of T Mississauga)

International Student Centre (U of T Scarborough)

Financial services

Between scholarships, bursaries and grants, U of T offers a wide range of financial services and supports to students. Learn more about getting financial aid or securing a scholarship, many of which are offered through your college or faculty.

Academic success

Slogging through piles of readings or writing a 3,000-word paper may seem like lonely work, but you don’t have to do it alone. Head over to the Sid Smith Commons to join a Recognized Study Group at the St. George campus or a Facilitated Study Group at U of T Mississauga or Scarborough and ace your next test with the help of your peers.

Alternatively, tackle that seemingly impossible paper at one of U of T’s 14 writing centres located across all three campuses. For more resources and tools for refining your study skills, improving time management and more, visit one of the tri-campus centres for academic support.

Academic Success Centre (St. George campus)

Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (U of T Mississauga)

Academic Advising & Career Centre (U of T Scarborough)

Family services

U of T is devoted to meeting the needs of its diverse network of students and families through its Family Care Office, which offers resources such as family care counselling and suggests child care options near campus. U of T provides further on-campus resources for students with children, such as Robarts Library’s family study space. Resources are also available for LGBTQ parents.

Stay in the know

The easiest way to stay connected with U of T news, events and up-to-date information is by following U of T on social media.

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (Tri-campus)

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (U of T Mississauga)

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (U of T Scarborough)

If social media’s not your thing, find one of the many ASKme booths around campus or consult anyone wearing an orange “ASKme” shirt. If you want a question answered without leaving the house, ask any U of T-related question online or explore other resources such as the U of T Student Life Offices, U of T Mississauga’s Centre for Student Engagement or U of T Scarborough’s Department of Student Life.

You can also stay in the know by picking up a copy of a campus newspaper such as The Varsity, The Medium or your college or faculty’s newspaper.

Also, be sure to check out U of T News for the latest news about the university.

U of T alumna, influencer is creator of Chinese website that looks at having fun in Toronto and beyond

noreen.rasbach — Fri, 10 May 2019 16:39:23 +0000

U of T alumna, influencer is creator of Chinese website that looks at having fun in Toronto and beyond

noreen.rasbach Fri, 05/10/2019 - 12:39

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“People tell me how lucky I am that my hobby is also my job,” says Joanna Luo, the creator of Toronto Diary

Topic

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

U of T Mississauga

University students know that if they want to taste the best barbecued pork buns in the Greater Toronto Area, Joanna Luo’s WeChat blog and Instagram page are the places to turn for advice – if you can read Mandarin.

Luo, 29, a University of Toronto Mississauga alumna, is the creator of Toronto Diary on WeChat, a lifestyle blog that has a related Instagram page and Twitter feed, all targeted toward international students from China and Chinese-Canadians between the ages of 15 and 24. In total, the sites have more than 500,000 followers and keeping them current has become Luo’s full-time job.

“I really love it,” says Luo. “I love food and I love new things.”

Luo first started the blog on WeChat, a Chinese website similar to Facebook, just for fun.

“I came to Canada from China for Grade 12 to improve my English before attending university,” Luo says. “The first year, I found it a bit boring, so I started to tour Toronto and find places to eat and set up a blog to tell my friends where they could go to eat and play.”

Soon, her following extended far beyond her friends, and two years ago, she and two partners turned the enterprise into a business, Toronto Chihewanle Ltd. While the others are silent partners, Luo is the editor-in-chief for the sites, overseeing a part-time staff of 12 freelancers who help her meet the ongoing need for relevant, interesting content.

Read about Luo in the Toronto Star

The WeChat blog offers readers six or seven new stories each Monday, Wednesday and Friday, complete with photos. The Friday edition of the blog always suggests an idea for a weekend activity, such as visiting the cherry blossoms in High Park, along with new foods and restaurants to try. Sometimes, there is a walking tour of restaurants in a specific area, complete with a map, or there may be results from a team taste-testing session for potato chip brands or ice cream. Asian restaurants or dishes are often a focal point, but Toronto Diary encourages its readership to branch out and try other treats that Toronto has to offer.

“At first, I just recorded what I liked,” Luo says. “I didn’t think about becoming a food blogger for a living.”

These days, however, she has so much on her plate, literally and figuratively, that she might visit two or three restaurants in one evening and taste only a few bites of each dish she orders.

“There are a lot of take-out bags with leftovers,” she says with a smile. Not a bad outcome, since Luo doesn’t have much time to cook.

Lifestyle blogging is a far cry from the history and economics she studied at U of T Mississauga, but Luo carries some of their lessons with her as she works.

“I learned about the economy and the need to analyze data, which I use in determining why a certain post works and another doesn’t,” she says. “I also learned how to manage my time during university.”

Luo says she sees the blog as a way to create a bridge between cultures, and she has begun encouraging her readers to explore the joys of places outside Canada, too. During the past year, she has travelled to New York City for Fashion Week, to Las Vegas to interview chefs and to Venice for its well-regarded film festival, sharing her food and fun finds with Toronto Diary followers. Soon, she’ll be winging her way to South Korea for a visit sponsored by Korean Tourism.

“People tell me how lucky I am that my hobby is also my job,” Luo says.

'I wanted to be a part of the mosaic of diversity': Students from Mexico on why they chose U of T

Christopher.Sorensen — Wed, 10 Apr 2019 14:41:08 +0000

'I wanted to be a part of the mosaic of diversity': Students from Mexico on why they chose U of T

Christopher.Sorensen Wed, 04/10/2019 - 10:41

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Eri Kimura, from Mexico City, says studying at U of T changed the way she thinks about history, society and other topics, while the university's diverse campus gave her new insights on tolerance (all photos by Nick Iwanyshyn)

Cansu Aydemir

Topic

Global Lens

Anthropology

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship