Arts & Science alum Francesca Cadhit loves to see U of T students discover new career possibilities they never knew existed.
“It's a privilege to give back,” says Cadhit, who earned her honours bachelor of science degree as a member of Trinity College, majoring in life sciences and human biology. “I want to keep having a positive impact on the next generation of students, connect with other alumni and further contribute to our school community.”
At a recent Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) speed mentorship reception on St. George campus, she witnessed “light bulb moments” many times as she guided students through intimate roundtable discussions.
“Science opens up so many different pathways beyond the traditional goals of becoming a doctor, pharmacist or nurse,” says Cadhit.
“People aren’t always aware other pathways exist. Being able to discuss those different options and watching them have that realization is what makes mentoring so rewarding.”
These moments are more than professionally fulfilling for Cadhit; they’re personally meaningful too. She recalls benefiting from shadowing opportunities during her undergraduate degree. Created by Professor William Ju, the opportunities paired students with industry experts outside the classroom.
“He cared so much, and to this day, he continues to care about his students a great deal,” says Cadhit.
That mentorship experience proved transformative, shaping Cadhit's career path and her desire to pay it forward.
“What struck me the most was how many of these students were open to new ideas of what their careers can be,” says Cadhit of recently mentoring students from the Department of Cell & Systems Biology and the Human Biology Program. “They really sought our feedback and insights.”
U of T is academically rigorous and competitive. It presented me with so many opportunities to develop my resilience and grit, which really set me up for success in my most challenging moments as a founder. Thanks to U of T, I’ve made important business connections and lifelong friendships.
Cadhit has built a career around opening doors for others. She’s a bestselling author, educator and speaker who founded the academic coaching service Top Class Edge Learning and hosts the Smart Growth Rocket podcast. She delivers inspiring talks at high schools across the Greater Toronto Area, helping students develop the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.
When Cadhit shares her story during mentoring sessions, she offers examples of how a life sciences background can lead to a career in education and entrepreneurship, how research skills transfer to curriculum and learning resource creation, and how understanding human biology heightens her ability to coach others.
“U of T is academically rigorous and competitive,” says Cadhit. “It presented me with so many opportunities to develop my resilience and grit, which really set me up for success in my most challenging moments as a founder. Thanks to U of T, I’ve made important business connections and lifelong friendships.”
As alumni like Cadhit step forward to mentor, they create a network of support that helps A&S students realize their full potential, whether they’re transitioning into university life or preparing for fulfilling post-university careers.
The benefits of getting involved as alumni are profound. Find a range of opportunities to support current A&S students and recent graduates.