First-Year Learning Communities: Life Sciences

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Paul Deacon, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Title: Student Services Advisor

About me: I hold a Bachelor of Education and Master of Education from U of T. I’ve worked in Athletics, at New College and now as a Student Services Advisor, helping students transition to university. I enjoy comedy, live music and golf!

Why FLCs? Starting university is a big transition — academically, socially and personally. It’s exciting but can be stressful. I'm happy to support students through their first year and help them feel confident and grounded in their new environment.

Top tip for incoming students: Build a schedule that includes everything — classes, deadlines, social events, personal time and more. Keeping it all in one place helps you stay balanced and on track.

Elleni Mandefro, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Neuroscience major, Physiology minor, Applied Data Science minor

Year: Four

College: St. Michael's College

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? First-Year Learning Communities Peer Mentor 2025-26, Arrive Ready Intern (Summer 2026), Stars for Scholarly Youth, University of Toronto Student Research Initiative

Why peer mentorship? I know how intimidating your first year of undergrad can be — especially at a school as large as U of T. It can be overwhelming to navigate the sheer amount of resources, U of T-specific terms (e.g., "POSt"), and everything else on top of academics, which is exactly why I joined FLC as an incoming first-year student. My FLC peer mentors did a phenomenal job of pointing me towards the correct resources, keeping it real and supporting me during probably one of the hardest transitions I've gone through in my academic journey. I'd love to give back to the community both this way and by sharing my unique experiences and tips.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I'm really looking forward to the upper-year human biology (HMB) courses — fingers crossed I get into them! Since this is one of the final years of my degree, I'm focused on trying anything that interests me to get a better sense of what I want to pursue in graduate school. More importantly, I'm super excited to build a relationship with each and everyone of you — FLC is such a rewarding program, and this might be our best year yet!

What advice would you give to first-year students? Embrace the discomfort of being in a new environment. You'll quickly realize that U of T is very different from high school, and although that can be nerve-racking, it can also be an amazing opportunity to discover new things about yourself. Join that club! Apply for that job! Basically, try anything you're curious about, even if you're nervous — with time for rest, of course.

Zoyeb Ehsan, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Program(s): Neuroscience major, Psychology minor, Slavic & East European Languages & Cultures minor (Russian Focus)

Year: Five

College: St. Michael's College

Hometown: Etobicoke, Ontario 

Why peer mentorship? My university journey has greatly benefited from mentorship, which has come from a variety of places, including FLC! I would love to play my part and mentor as many students as I can and support in any way possible. I have also worked with the FLC team for multiple years now and it has been such an enriching and fulfilling experience that I am eager to step into the role again and work with my fellow peer mentors to make the 2026-27 year special for the new set of FLCees.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I am looking forward to working with my fellow FLC peer mentors in making this year as collaborative and engaging as possible for all FLC groups. I am also looking forward to continuing my studies in neuroscience and Russian culture and langauge, with hopefully even a year-long research project in neuroscience. I am also looking forward to continuing my work with the U of T Muslim Students' Association and collaborating with the Multi-Faith Centre at U of T, as well as organizing more initiatives within the Department of Slavic & East European Languages & Cultures.

What advice would you give to first-year students? The one piece of advice I want to give is to be endlessly curious and open to possibilities. It is good to come into university with a certain plan, but be a bit flexible as well and really take advantage of the vast array of opportunities offered by U of T. This is with respect to courses, programs, clubs, jobs, etc. A huge and important decision you make as a first year student is what courses to take. Please really take some time to look at everything that is offered and choose courses that speak to you personally. Try to not just take courses solely because someone else said it'd be good to take, or because someone said it's a "bird course.” Follow your passion and make your degree truly your own!

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Andy Dicks, Faculty Advisor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Title: Professor, Teaching Stream & Chemistry Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies

About me: I moved to U of T in 1997 from the United Kingdom after earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in Chemistry. On arrival I quickly discovered that I loved teaching, and I currently oversee the successful delivery of over 50 undergraduate chemistry courses each year. I'm very interested in designing new laboratory experiments for students and measuring their pedagogical effectiveness, especially in the areas of green chemistry and sustainability. Outside the university, I'm a huge sports fan (mainly football - the English version - and cricket), and also a semi-serious runner. My latest race was the May 2023 Toronto Marathon — I'm still suffering from it now!

Why FLCs? I love meeting with and talking to students at all academic levels, and part of that is helping to facilitate smaller communities within our larger Arts & Science undergraduate community. I designed a Course Community for CHM 151Y back in 2006, and I am also the faculty advisor for our Chemistry Second-Year Learning Community. I have been a faculty advisor to the Innis College First-Year Learning Community for 18 years, and am very invested in helping students to enjoy their university experience and to be as successful as possible (in as many different ways as possible!).

Top tip for incoming students: Make the most of the enormous amount of support available to you that is embedded within and related to your first-year courses. These include student hours offered by professors, online course discussion boards, Recognized Study Groups (RSGs) and Victoria College Peer Tutoring. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength (not weakness!) and an important component towards ensuring your academic success.

Denise Gray, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Title: Associate Registrar, Recruitment & Transition

About me: I am an academic advisor who works primarily with first-year students from Innis College to support their academic transition from high school to university. This includes course enrolment, program planning, academic support, referrals to campus services and more! I have been working at U of T in this role since 2006 — clearly I enjoy it immensely! I hold a Bachelor of Arts from Rowan University with a teaching degree in special education from Rowan University in New Jersey, USA. I earned my Master's Degree in Higher Education Administration from Suffolk University in Boston, MA, USA. Away from the university, I love spending time with my family and friends, cooking, walking my dog and cheering for my favourite sports teams — mostly the Boston Red Sox.

Why FLCs? I enjoy working directly with first-year students. I appreciate the opportunity to get to know students away from the more serious academic advising role I typically inhabit. FLCs helps to expose students to the wealth of opportunities and resources available around the university and being a part of that learning is very gratifying!

Top tip for incoming students: My one piece of advice is to plan. Plan your day. Plan your schedule. Plan your activities. Plan your free time. If you become adept at making a schedule — and sticking to it  — you will find you have room in your day/week/month/years for a variety of meaningful activities and events. This helps to minimize stress, maximize mental health, contribute to your well-roundedness, academic capacity and social well-being. Learning to plan is a lifelong skill!

Keshvi Patel, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Life Sciences admission category (I hope to double major in Pharmacology and Psychology)

Year: Two

College: Innis College

Hometown: Whitby, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I was part of a FLC in my first year and my friends and I are starting a club called Hearts for Humanity for the upcoming school year. Our goal is to host events and raise money to give back to the community.

Why peer mentorship? I enjoyed my time in my FLC and it provided me with a group of people who I could easily and frequently interact with, thus it made making friends easier. Additionally, I learned a lot about U of T and it provided me with information on resources, making me feel less overwhelmed — the transition from high school to university felt less dramatic. I want to be able to help others the way my peer mentors guided me; I want to ease their worries to ensure they enjoy their first year to the fullest.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I am looking forward to meeting new people and being part of the peer mentorship community.

What advice would you give to first-year students? It is possible to enjoy first year and do well in your classes, you just have to find the perfect balance of school and fun that works for you.

Nabiha Ahmed, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, Immunology minor

Year: Four

College: Innis College

Hometown: Vancouver, British Columbia

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I have been a part of the Innis College Insider mentorship program for incoming first years since I was in second year, first as a mentor and then as a lead mentor. In my second and third years, I was a senior house representative on the Innis Residence Council. In my first year, I participated in Alternative Reading Week as a volunteer and in second year I returned as a project leader. Lastly, I regularly attend the U of T Knitting Club meetings to work on my knitting projects. 

Why peer mentorship? In my first year, upper-year students like my FLC peer mentors were very important in helping me adjust to university because they were always willing to give tips on how to study for a course, share campus resources or give course suggestions. I want to be a peer mentor because I want to share my experiences, like my upper-year mentors did for me, to make the transition to university even a little easier for first-year students.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I am looking forward to meeting my FLC students over the course of the academic year and supporting them as they navigate their first year. Every FLC group and each FLC student is very different every year, so I am looking forward to getting to know my FLC students and guiding each of them as they start their unique undergraduate journey.

What advice would you give to first-year students? I would say to have a really open mind and explore as much as you can all thoughout undergrad because there is so much that this university has to offer in terms of courses, extracurricular activities, research positions and unique learning opportunities. Once I started to explore more, I was able to find new things I was passionate about, make friends who I never would have met just through my classes and learn about really cool opportunities in research.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Stefania Mavromatis, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Title: Academic Advisor

About me: I was also an A&S student and graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Arts (English Specialist) and a Master's in Education. I always wanted to teach in some capacity and use many of those skills in my everyday practice as an Academic Advisor. I have been an Academic Advisor at New College since 2020 and my portfolio centres around the first-year experience. Although I advise students in all four years of study across many programs of study, my advising experience is tailored towards helping first-year students navigate their academic experience.  I have met many students along the way, and enjoy learning from their experiences and helping them reach their goals. Each year and each cohort of students brings new and exciting opportunities to learn, grow and challenge myself to find better ways to connect with our first-year students!

Why FLCs? FLCs are an incredible way for students with similar admission streams, programs or years of study to connect, build friendships and learn from each other in a small class environment. Being part of the FLC community as a Staff Advisor gives me the opportunity to further engage with our first-year community and be part of the network of success for our students! As a FLC Staff Advisor, I hope to help first-year students feel less alone, ease their transition to university and show them that community can be found all over campus.

Top tip for incoming students: Don’t forget to look up! It was something a friend reminded me of while waiting to go into our first exam. When you are in your first year, even the smallest setbacks, like a bad grade on a test, not doing well on a term paper or missing a multiple choice question, can feel big.  When we focus negatively on the things that we feel we are “not good at” or “failed at,” we miss the chance for greater learning opportunities. “Looking up” reminds us to stay grounded in the present and that we are exactly where we need to be right now!

Danielle Williams, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Pharmacology & Biomedical Toxicology specialist

Year: Four

College: New College

Hometown: Nassau, Bahamas

Why peer mentorship? Mentorship has played a huge role in my success at U of T, ranging from learning communities to one-on-one guidance. There is something to learn on either side of the relationship, and I'm so excited for the opportunity to share my experiences as an upper-year student and connect with others!

What are you looking forward to this academic year? Spending more time with friends and starting on my thesis for PCL472. I'm also looking forward to returning to FLC.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Grades matter, but they're not everything. It's important to take things slow, rest and keep in touch with your hobbies to prevent burnout.

Simran Taluja, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Chemistry and Global Health

Year: Three

College: New College

Hometown: India

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I have been involved a lot on campus, especially in my college. In my second year, I was a SPROUT mentor, an orientation leader and First-year Learning Community mentor for New College. I was also involved with the Human Biology Students’ Union Mentorship Program. Additionally, I was an assitant at the D.G. Ivey Library for the exam periods. I participated in some extra events including Alternate Reading Week volunteer activities and Job Shadowing Program, which gave me new experiences.

Why peer mentorship? I want to support incoming students in their transition to university and help them feel more confident and less overwhelmed. In my first year, I remember how easy it was to feel lost, and I wanted to be someone who could make that experience smoother for others. I also value the opportunity to continue developing my skills in mentorship, communication and community building while making a meaningful impact.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I’m looking forward to meeting new people and building meaningful connections within the university community. I’m also excited to continue growing academically while making the most of my overall university experience. I’m especially looking forward to new opportunities that may come up throughout the year and being able to learn, grow and challenge myself in different ways.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Take things one step at a time and give yourself the space to adjust, it all works out eventually. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, and try to make the most of your university experience by exploring opportunities putting yourself out there.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Therese Perucho, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Title: Student Life Coordinator, Orientation and Transition

About me: At New College, I work primarily with first-year undergraduate students to help them better integrate and build community at the university. Aside from my work at U of T, I teach piano and English on the side. Some of my hobbies include reading, doing Pilates and learning new languages. I also love discovering new cafés and spending time with my two cats.

Why FLCs? I’m very passionate about my work, especially about working with FLCs, since I also completed my undergrad at U of T and had a rough time in my first year. I want to be a friendly face and a supportive figure for students who may be struggling, feeling out of place, or just in need of someone who understands what they are going through.

Top tip for incoming students: Try to find your community at U of T! While focusing on academics in university is essential, it’s just as important to meet new people, make friends and discover the world around you. You can do this by joining clubs on campus, attending student events or chatting with other students in your program.

Keren Idel, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Chemistry and Neuroscience

Year: Three

College: New College

Hometown: Vaughan, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I’ve been involved in a mix of research, campus jobs and student leadership roles. I was just working on wet lab research in a molecular genetics lab, where I’ve developed skills in lab techniques, data analysis and presenting scientific findings. I’ve also held campus roles focused on student engagement and event coordination, which I’ve really enjoyed because they allow me to connect with students and help create a welcoming environment. Alongside this, I’ve been active in clubs and academic support initiatives, including leading study groups and mentoring peers.

Why peer mentorship? I chose peer mentorship because I know how impactful it is to have someone who’s been in your shoes. I want to make that transition easier and create a space where students feel supported, connected and confident navigating university.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I’m most excited to connect with my FLCees, get to know their goals and support them as they find their place at U of T.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Give yourself time to adjust. You don’t need to have everything figured out right away. Focus on learning, exploring and finding what works for you.

Lilianna Xing, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and Peace, Conflict & Justice

Year: Three

College: New College

Hometown: Calgary, Alberta

What activities have you been involved in on campus? Collective Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), Hart House Social Justice (HHSJ) Committee, North American Model United Nations (NAMUN) copy editor, Sustainability Ambassadors volunteer, U of T Trash Team volunteer, work study with Dalla Lana EDI Outreach

Why peer mentorship? I love being part of the wonderful New College and general student communities at U of T, and I hope that incoming first years get a chance to feel the same way!

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I'm really looking forward to taking more specialized courses in my interests!

What advice would you give to first-year students? Your university experience is going to be yours, not anyone else's, so try to focus on what you need or want out of it, not what others are doing. Their experiences are opportunities for learning, not a standard to be widely applied!

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Riddi Saini, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers 

Program(s): Double major in Neuroscience and Immunology

Year: Four

College: St. Michael's College 

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario 

Why peer mentorship? As a first-generation student, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to navigate university and all the challenges that come with it. I love being able to provide guidance and support so that students can learn about the “hidden curriculum” — the unspoken knowledge that many students already arrive with. Beyond that, I genuinely love helping to build a sense of community. As a commuter and former FLCee, I know just how impactful FLC can be in helping you establish friendly, familiar faces at a school that can otherwise feel overwhelming. Being that person for someone else is something that I find truly meaningful; those connections don't just last the semester. I still run into students from my own FLC around campus, and it's always such fun to stop, say hi and catch up!

What are you looking forward to this academic year? Going into my third year as an FLC peer mentor, I am so excited to once again meet new faces, build our FLC community and make some great memories together! Every year brings a completely new dynamic, and I love that no two cohorts are ever the same. On a personal note, going into my fourth year at U of T, I'm also really looking forward to finally diving into smaller, topic-specific classes. It's going to be a fun and fulfilling year of learning, and I can't wait to share that energy with all of you!

What advice would you give to first-year students? Try everything. Seriously! This university has so much to offer — you just have to go find it! Whether it's sports, clubs, volunteer programs or random events you stumble across on a poster, there is genuinely something for everyone here. I truly hope you step out of your comfort zone and venture out to discover things that fascinate you and the people who will become your community. It'll feel scary at first, but you will never regret having done it. Most of all, enjoy your first year! It's going to have its tricky moments, but the campus is beautiful, September weather is unbeatable, and this chapter of your life is one you'll look back on with so much fondness. We're rooting for you!

Danielle Cuccurullo, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Human Biology major, Health & Disease minor (planning to change to a major or specialist in Neuroscience)

Year: Two

College: St. Michael's College

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I am really passionate about music; not only do I play both the violin and piano, but I also teach others how to play.

Why peer mentorship? I'm interested in peer mentorship because I was pretty shy coming into university, and I know how hard it can be to put yourself out there in a new environment. Having support from someone who understands that can make a big difference, so I want to be that person for others. I'd like to help students feel more comfortable, build confidence and know they don't have to navigate everything on their own.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I'm looking forward to building on what I learned in first year and becoming more confident in my courses. I'm also excited to get more involved in the U of T community, especially through peer mentorship, and to connect with other students while continuing to grow both academically and personally.

What advice would you give to first-year students? One piece of advice I would give to first-year students is to not feel like you have to figure everything out right away. It's okay to take time to adjust, try new things and learn as you go. Everyone else is doing the same, even if it does not seem like it.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Kylie Luska, Faculty Advisor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Title: Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream

About me: I joined the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto in January 2024 as an Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream and have been teaching introductory (CHM136H) and advanced (CHM343H, CHM441H) organic chemistry courses. Before this appointment, I was an instructional assistant and sessional lecturer at McMaster University. I hold degrees from the University of Guelph (BSc and MSc) and McGill University (PhD). I was also a postdoctoral fellow and sub-group leader at RWTH Aachen University in Germany. In my teaching, I focus on improving the problem-solving and critical thinking skills of my students through more student-centred activities for both the organic chemistry classroom and laboratory. I am also interested in incorporating the practices of green and sustainable chemistry into the undergraduate chemistry curriculum.

Why FLCs? I think that FLCs provide students with an opportunity to learn essential information about their university community at an early stage in their education. This is something that usually happens organically (pun intended) throughout a student’s undergraduate degree, but FLCs allow students to gain this knowledge early on and thus maximize their experience on campus. I appreciate the chance to help students along their educational journey on all aspects within their university lives.

Top tip for incoming students: Be sure to use the resources provided by the university, your college, your department (after first-year) and your courses throughout your undergraduate degree! In particular, the instructional teams of your first-year courses are here to support your transition from high school to university and help you grow as a student. Attend your lectures and tutorials. Join student hour sessions to have your questions answered by instructors. Post and answer questions on discussion boards. Use homework resources provided within your courses. Remember that knowledge takes time to synthesize (another intended pun) so be sure to work consistently throughout the term.

Carrie Ji, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Pharmacology & Biomedical Toxicology, Health & Disease

Year: Three

College: St. Michael's College

Hometown: North York, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? St. Michael’s College Student Union (SMCSU), SMC Crafters, SMC Orientation, Troubadours

Why peer mentorship? Throughout my time at university, I’ve noticed that some of the most helpful guidance doesn’t come from formal discussions, but from conversations with peers who have recently been in the same position. That relatability makes it easier to ask honest questions and get practical, experienced advice. I’m drawn to peer mentorship because a strong support system can make or break a student's academic year, and I’d like to be someone who can help others navigate challenges more confidently and is able to encourage them from the sidelines.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I'm looking forward to exploring what U of T has to offer in terms of its courses, research opportunities and social gatherings. I hope to make the most out of my second half of my university experience and I can't wait to meet everyone on this journey.

What advice would you give to first-year students? My advice for first-year students is that it is completely normal to go into university not having a strong sense of self. Be aware that these next few years are meant to challenge and help you realize who you are as an individual. I advise you to welcome new experiences and chase the things that scare you in pursuit of discovering your potential. This will include a lot of hardships and obstacles, but they will prepare you for your aspirations and goals, even if you aren't sure how yet.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Cherryl-Lyn Holder-Olamuyiwa, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Title: Academic Advisor, Career Exploration & Education

About me: I have been at Trinity College for three years. I provide academic and career advising as well as run Trinity's Alumni Career Mentorship Program.

Why FLCs? I love being able to be a guide for peer mentors in their role. I have been very lucky to have amazing students that work in the program.

Top tip for incoming students: Don't worry if you haven’t decided on your program in your first year. Just take the time to enjoy trying different courses and talk to an Academic Advisor if you feel overwhelmed with the decision.

Jayden Tang, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Program(s): Double major in Health & Disease and Environment & Health

Year: Three

College: Trinity College

Hometown: Scarsdale, New York

What activities have you been involved in on campus? Clubs: University of Toronto Students' Union (First-Year Council), The Seahorse Program, SMILE, Collective Undergraduate Research Club Experience (CURE), Youreka Undergraduate Research Lead

Research: Motivation and Social Cognition Plaks Lab, Neurodegenerative Disorders Mah Lab, Behavioral Neuroscience Corbit Lab, Pain Neuroscience Moayedi Lab, Rehabilitation Technology Women's College Hospital, Geriatric Emergency Medicine Lee Lab, Laidlaw Scholar

Jobs: Temerty Faculty of Medicine (Veterinary Technologist), Trinity College (Tour Guide), FLC Peer Mentor

Why peer mentorship? U of T is a massive school, and while that means a great deal of opportunities, it can also be overwhelming. Peer mentorship was an extremely important aspect of my first year, guiding me through things like research opportunities, study hacks and adjusting to U of T. As a FLC Peer Mentor, I hope to help first-year students through an exciting time in their lives!

What are you looking forward to this academic year? In my third year, I'm hoping to explore my chosen majors and interests to a greater degree. I believe first and second year are all about finding your bearings and getting your feet wet with a variety of experiences, and now that I'll be entering my third year, I hope to explore the nuances of my chosen fields. Of course, I'm also excited to be returning as a FLC peer mentor.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Amidst all the academics and classes, try not forget that university is more than studying every second of every day. It's easy to get wrapped up in assignments and grades, especially in life sciences; however, making new friends, joining clubs and exploring the city beyond campus is equally important. First year is a time of change, emotion and excitement, so be sure to remember that you are a human first and a student second.

Anurag Pareek, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: he/him/his

Program(s): Health & Disease specialist, Immunology major and Applied Data Science minor

Year: Three

College: Trinity College

Hometown: Jaipur, India

Why peer mentorship? Peer mentorship matters to me because I know how overwhelming first year can feel. Having someone who has recently gone through that experience can make a huge difference. 

I’m interested in peer mentorship because it allows me to support students in a way that is both practical and personal. It’s not just about giving advice, but about helping someone feel understood, heard and more confident in navigating their own path. I value the idea of being a consistent point of support that students can approach without hesitation, whether it’s for academic strategies or just reassurance.

At the same time, mentorship is also a two-way process. I see it as an opportunity to grow by learning from others’ perspectives, improving how I communicate and becoming more thoughtful in how I guide people.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? This academic year, I’m really looking forward to becoming more intentional with how I balance my academics, extracurriculars and personal growth. As I move further into my program, I want to engage more deeply with my coursework and explore areas that genuinely interest me, especially in health and the life sciences.

I’m also excited about being part of the FLC community. I’m looking forward to meeting new students, building connections and creating an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Being able to contribute to someone’s transition into university, even in small ways, is very meaningful to me.

Beyond that, I want to push myself out of my comfort zone more, whether that’s through taking on new opportunities, improving my communication skills or being more proactive in reaching out to people. Overall, I’m hoping this year helps me grow both academically and personally.

What advice would you give to first-year students? One piece of advice I would give to first-year students is to give yourself time. It’s easy to come into university feeling like you need to have everything figured out immediately — academics, friendships, career goals — but that’s not realistic. First year is as much about understanding how the university works and where you fit into it as it is about doing well academically.

Focus on exploring: get to know the community, try new things, meet people and build meaningful connections with your peers and upper-year students who can guide you. Use the resources available to you, but don’t pressure yourself to “optimize” everything right away.

One important shift from high school is that decisions are no longer about choosing between right and wrong; they’re often about choosing between multiple good options. Learning how to prioritize what matters to you takes time, and that’s okay. Things will fall into place, but only if you give yourself the space to grow into them.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Tala Al Khiyami, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Physiology and Immunology

Year: Three

College: University College

Hometown: Damascus, Syria

What activities have you been involved in on campus? I am currently a research assistant at the BOLD Lab, contributing to research on language and brain development in refugee and newcomer children. I am also the founder of Project Hope, a student-led club focused on mental health advocacy and substance use awareness among university students. As events director for Chapters for Change, I organize and lead outreach initiatives for the distribution of educational booklets explaining medical topics to students through youth centres, schools and libraries across Toronto. Additionally, I was a FLC peer mentor for the 2025-26 academic year, supporting first-year students in their transition to university.

Why peer mentorship? My experience in FLC during my first year of university showed me how much of a difference mentorship can make. Additionally, so much of my own growth has come from people who took the time to guide me, and giving that back to others is something I truly value.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I’m looking forward to building meaningful connections with my mentees and being a source of support as they navigate their first year. I’m especially excited to help them find opportunities, get involved on campus and feel more confident in a new environment.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone! University is a time of growth, and a lot of that growth comes from trying new things. While that can feel intimidating at first, it’s often where the most meaningful experiences come from. There are so many opportunities at U of T, and putting yourself out there can open many unexpected doors.

Mansi Bhatia, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Health & Disease and Physiology

Year: Four

College: University College

Hometown: Etobicoke, Ontario

What activities have you been involved in on campus? Teddy Bear Clinic (founder), the Miracle Foundation (founder), the Saturday Program (co-director), TEDxUofT (public relations co-director), Junoon (performer), the DATE Lab (researcher)

Why peer mentorship? Because sometimes the most meaningful guidance comes from someone who was just in your shoes. Peer mentorship feels real — it’s honest, relatable and rooted in shared experiences. To me, it’s about creating a space where questions feel safe, growth feels possible and no one feels like they’re figuring things out alone. I’ve seen how much a small conversation or bit of reassurance can change someone’s confidence, and I want to be part of that for others. It’s not just about guiding, it’s about growing together.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I’m looking forward to stepping into this year with more intention, being more present in both my academics and the communities I’m part of. I’m excited to keep growing, take on new challenges and push myself outside my comfort zone. More than anything, I’m looking forward to the people building meaningful connections, learning from others and creating moments that make the year feel memorable beyond just classes.

What advice would you give to first-year students? You really don’t have to have it all figured out — no one does, even if it looks like they do. First year is for exploring, making mistakes and slowly finding your rhythm. Be kind to yourself, try things that scare you a little and trust that everything will fall into place in its own time.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your Winter Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Paul Kaita, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: he/him

Title: Academic Advisor, Recruitment & Transition In

About me: I provide academic advising for our first-year student community to transition into life at Vic and lead our recruitment initiatives at Victoria College. I meet with students one-on-one to help navigate through university life that works towards their student success. I am a double U of T graduate, completing my HBA in architectural and visual studies and Master of Education. Outside of my work, I love to explore cafes around the city, watercolour paint and graphic design!

Why FLCs? What I love about FLCs is that it can create a close-knit environment where students can connect with peers, mentors, staff and faculty. I'm excited to be part of these meaningful moments of connection and conversation, helping students build new relationships and feel at home. My goal is to create a welcoming space where students feel safe to be their authentic selves as they explore who they are and begin this exciting new chapter of their university journey.

Top tip for incoming students: My advice to students is simple: don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are so many great resources available. It all starts with reaching out. Whether it’s your Registrar’s Office, a professor or a learning strategist. That one conversation can open new paths you may not even realize!

Malak Rizk, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Biochemistry and Health & Disease

Year: Three

College: Victoria College

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

Why peer mentorship? Throughout my life, and especially when I started university, the support of my peer mentors made a huge difference. When I felt confused or unsure, I knew I had people I could turn to for guidance. Working as a peer mentor last year, I had the privilege of being able to offer that same support to incoming first-year students, which was so meaningful. This year, I hope to continue doing the same!

What are you looking forward to this academic year? In third year, I’m really looking forward to diving deeper into my majors. I got to take so many fascinating courses in second year, and I’m excited to build on that and explore these topics further. I’m also excited to strengthen the friendships I’ve made this year and connect with even more people!

What advice would you give to first-year students? It may be something you’ve heard many times before, but believe in yourself. When you approach things with good intentions and put in your best effort, you’re capable of more than you think. University is a big transition, and it’s normal to have moments of doubt. When that happens, reach out to people who care about you and remind yourself that you are capable.

Hailey Shi, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Pathobiology specialist

Year: Three

College: Victoria College

Hometown: Calgary, Alberta

What activities have you been involved in on campus? Women's Health Collective, Caffiends, LMPSU, HMB265 peer tutor, drop-in and intramural volleyball

Why peer mentorship? I am excited to grow into my role as a peer mentor because when I was in first year, I really appreciated all of the wisdom and life experiences that the upper years bestowed upon me. It was very valuable to be able to hear from someone who was very recently just in my shoes, and I hope to be able to now continue the student life cycle as an upper-year student with experience that may be helpful for students in other years who may still be adjusting to university life.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I'm looking forward to continuing to grow as a person, both academically and personally. Academics wise, there are a number of upper-year courses that I am excited to finally be able to take. Socially, I am excited to meet new, interesting people, to deepen my existing friendships and obviously learn from all of the students in the peer mentorship program, be it other mentors or of course the "FLCees"!

What advice would you give to first-year students? One of the biggest pieces of advice I would give to first-year students is to try to be as present as possible in all of your experiences. As cliché as it may sound, this is a time of our lives that we will never get back and an opportunity for growth and meeting other passionate people that is like no other. Whether it's doing your best to physically be in class, attending lectures, or even it being as simple as trying to be present for social events with your friends or with clubs, I think that the most valuable experience that university will teach you (beyond academics) is an ability to connect with other people. Just trying to be present (and yourself!) in all of these moments will, in my opinion, be a very key step in achieving success here.

Your Fall Courses

*Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule. 

Your Winter Courses

 *Your BIO and CHM labs occur on alternating weeks. This will not be a conflict in your schedule.

Your FLC Team

Meredith Koehler, Staff Advisor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Title: Academic Advisor

About me: My role is to support students with formulating academic goals, selecting courses and understanding degree requirements. I also help students navigate their options when challenges arise that may impact a student’s academic performance. I did my undergrad in Psychology and Theatre, have my teaching degree and recently finished my Master's in Education. I'm passionate about helping student navigate the university, so that they have the resources and support to succeed!

Why FLCs? I think FLCs are an amazing way to form community at U of T. It's a great space to meet people and learn from each other. The peer mentors are excellent resources of knowledge!

Top tip for incoming students: Give yourself time to transition. Go easy on yourself as you learn the ways you like to learn. Also, never hesitate to reach out to your instructors, peer mentors or academic advisors if there is something you need. We love to help!

Tioluwatise Osunsanya, Peer Mentor

Preferred Name: Tise

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Human Biology major, Immunology and Physiology minors

Year: Three

College: Woodsworth College

Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria

What activities have you been involved in on campus? Outreach coordinator for the Black Doctors of Tomorrow (BDOT); FLC peer mentor for Woodsworth

Why peer mentorship? My first-year experience went so well because I had peer mentors who supported me every step of the way. Being able to now step into that role for an incoming student feels really meaningful. It’s an opportunity for me to continue developing my leadership, communication and problem-solving skills, while also helping others grow into more confident and resilient learners.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? This academic year, I’m looking forward to diving deeper into specialized courses aligned with my goals in healthcare and dentistry, while continuing to grow through hands-on experiences such as research and mentorship. I’m especially excited to support first-year students as they navigate their transition into university. I know there will be both challenges and rewarding moments, and I’m ready to embrace all of it, especially the growth that comes with it.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Don’t be afraid to ask for help and put yourself out there early. Whether it’s going to office hours, joining clubs or reaching out to peers, those small steps make a huge difference. University is a big transition, and it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Erica Akene, Peer Mentor

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Program(s): Double major in Neuroscience and Physiology 

Year: Four 

College: Woodsworth College

Hometown: Vancouver, British Columbia 

What activities have you been involved in on campus? As Co-President of the University of Toronto Women’s Student Association (UTWSA), I’ve had the chance to help create opportunities for women to build skills and community at U of T. I’m also involved in my neuroscience program’s student association (NAUS), where I was a third-year rep last year and now serve as VP Academics. Outside of that, I’m a peer mentor for the Woodsworth First-Year Mentorship Program and work as an intramural volleyball referee.

Why peer mentorship? I love helping others succeed in their personal and academic journeys, whether that's being a listening ear, giving advice or just being a friend. Coming into U of T, I did not have mentors to look to and I had to figure out a lot of things by trial and error, so I want to share what I've learned with others to help them along as well.

What are you looking forward to this academic year? I am very excited to begin my research project in neuroscience in the fall and get to contribute to the scientific community. Additionally, this year brings more opportunities to build community at U of T and spend time with my friends before we graduate.

What advice would you give to first-year students? Do not base your worth in your academic success. You are so much more than the grade you got in that one class. University is a lot more fun when you find things to do and be outside of just being a student.