Our Renison Student Experience & Housing team are dedicated in ensuring you have a vibrant student experience!
We are here to support you help you thrive during your studies and have access to the supports and resources available to ensure your personal, academic, and career success. One of the ways we do this is by offering one-on-one meet-ups with students.
These meetings are usually 30 minutes in length, but can be customized for a shorter or longer time if needed.
During a one-on-one meet-up, we can chat about anything related to your personal and academic success. Some of the most common subjects that students talk about during a meet-up include:
- Study strategies, including textbook skim/scanning, notes reviews, test taking tips and dealing with test anxiety
- Time management help and helping you organize all of your assignments, tests, study time—and find time to attend events also!
- Questions about life at Waterloo and being a successful student
- Support with adjusting to life in Canada and the city of Waterloo
- Thriving while living in a student residence, and tips for how to make the most of your residence experience
- Conversations about mental health wellness and how to build healthy strategies into your day-to-day schedule.
- English practice! Just meet with us and practice your conversational English. We can talk about anything you like!
Want to book a one-on-one meet-up?
To book a one-on-one meet-up, find the person on this page you would like to meet with. Click the "Register for a Meet-up" button under their name. This will take you to a website called Calendly where you can book a meeting time that works best for your schedule. A meeting reminder email will be sent to you that will confirm your meeting date, time, and location. If you booked a virtual meeting, the email will include a Zoom link.
Learning Skills Peer Leaders
The Learning Skills Peer Leader and Student Experience Peer Leader (Mature/Online Students) support students taking at least one course at Renison and/or living in our Renison Residence community! They are available to help students build effective learning strategies for university, to navigate the tutoring and learning support services at the University of Waterloo, and to facilitate opportunities to build your learning skills!
Learning Skills Peer Leaders
Meet with Diya Drabu
Sexuality, Relationships, and Family Studies, Arts
Diya (she/her) is our Student Experience Peer Leader for mature students and online learners! Studying in the Sexuality, Relationships, and Families (SRF) program. Diya's role is to help students navigate the systems, programs, and processes at the University of Waterloo that may be confusing as a mature student or online learner, and she is here to help build a welcoming community for mature students and online learners.
A common challenge for many new mature students and online learners is building effective learning skills and study strategies with an already very busy schedule. Plus, Diya absolutely loves learning about people's experiences, cultures, and stories! In her free time, she loves learning new languages, dance, calligraphy, and henna designs!
Meet with Diya about:
- How to navigate the University of Waterloo websites (Quest, Portal, LEARN, Email, etc.)
- Adjusting to life as a mature student or online student and building more effective time management strategies
- Accessing University of Waterloo support services and what's available for you
- Confronting imposter syndrome and finding ways to feel like you belong in your classes (because you do!)
Meet with Rubee Kung
Psychology, Arts
Rubee (she/her) is a Learning Skills Peer Leader who is here to support all students registered in at least one course at Renison and/or living in Renison Residence! As a Learning Skills Peer Leader, Rubee can help you adjust your study strategies from high school and refine them for the new study environment that is university. Rubee loves understanding how the brain works, and enjoys working with students in developing real-life learning strategies that can help you to stay organized with your tests and assignments, while balancing that with your well-being and maintaining positive mental health.
Meet with Rubee about:
- Strengthening your study strategies (time management, note-taking, textbook reading)
- How to access the many learning supports, tutorial centres, and supports at the University of Waterloo
- How to juggle your well-being while building effective skills for your classes
Renison Residence Dons
Renison Residence Dons
Meet with Alec Higgins
Honours Science Psychology student
Alec (they/them) describes themselves as an artist who loves all things creative and will totally nerd out about art if given the chance! They specialize in traditional drawing and painting, and you’ll almost always find them sketching late at night with a sketchbook in hand.
Meet with Alec about:
- Communication skills and leadership skill-building
- Mental health and well-being support
- Questions and curiosity in understanding the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and gender
- Volunteering and getting involved with UWaterloo
Meet with Alex Pietersma
Geography and Environmental Management, Environment
Alex (he/him) is a second-year student from Toronto with many varied talents and interests! Alex loves club volleyball, studio dancing, concert band, video games, and social games)! Alex is also a decently competitive person so is up for any new challenge that comes his way!
Meet with Alex about:
- Overcoming homesickness or culture shock
- Mental health wellness
- Building leadership and communication skills
Meet with Ireland Worrall
Planning, Environment
Ireland (she/her) is third-year Planning student at the University of Waterloo who has made many happy memories during her time at Renison. Ireland encourages all residents to get out of their rooms and "DO THINGS!" on campus. Ireland's advice is to be open to meeting new people and trying new things -- you never know what might happen. Ireland loves to travel! In fact, last Spring, she visited her country namesake, Ireland, with a youth travel group!
Meet with Ireland about:
- Tips for exploring Waterloo and Ontario
- How to get involved with fitness classes at Waterloo
- Adapting to Canadian culture
Meet with Jasmine Ayoub
Climate and Environmental Change (Co-op), Environment
Jasmine (she/her) is fourth-year student who is in her second year as a Don at Renison and has previously completed a co-op term at Renison also as a Programs Assistant! Jasmine is a die-hard Twilight fan and loves making friends with so many other Twilight lovers around campus; she even tries to rematch all the Twilight movies every term!
Meet with Jasmine about:
- Tips for finding co-op and navigating the co-op student experience
- Doing well with job interviews and dealing with anxiety
- Time management strategies in university (it's different than high school!)
Meet with Justice Potter
Social Development Studies, Arts
Justice (he/him) is returning this Fall for his second year as a Residence Don! Justice loves nature, camping, and hiking, and tries to rock climb at Grand River Rocks in Kitchener any chance he gets. Justice has been very engaged since coming to Waterloo, including helping last year to lead Renison's Queer and Cozy program for other 2SLGTBQIA+ students.
Meet with Justice about:
- Time management and ways to be organized to make your first year in university so much more manageable
- Mental health and well-being supports on campus
- 2SLGBTQIA+ peer support
Meet with Keira Salawu
Social Development Studies and Environment, Resources, and Sustainability, Arts
Keira (she/her)is a second-year student at Waterloo, and is living in Renison for her second year this year. Keira loves sailing, and she spends her summers working on tall ships! After her first year in university, Keira's advice to all students is not fall into the "I'll do it later" mindset. Instead, it's so important to find friends you can lock in with who can help keep you accountable to your studies.
Meet with Keira about:
- Overcoming homesickness and culture shock
- Life as a student athlete and being involved on campus
- Getting connected to main campus services, as well as various leadership opportunities
Meet with Phil Janev
Kinesiology, Health
Phil Janev (he/him) is from Ajax and will be in his third year at Waterloo this year. His claim to fame is being, like, super good at throwing frisbees. Try to challenge him and just see! Phil loves the outdoors and especially enjoys going for walks out in wild overgrown environments. Don't be afraid to reach out to Phil for good conversation anytime. He especially enjoys having one-on-one drawing sessions where we can chat about anything you like while we doodle!
Meet with Phil about:
- Mental health wellness and stress management
- Sharing your home cultures and chatting about other cultures
- Communication skills practice and building your leadership potential
Meet with Selena Zheng
Biomedical Science, Science
Selena (she/her) is in her fourth year at Waterloo and is very active as a Waterloo student, returning for her second year as a Don, and having also been a peer leader previously! Selena is very "tryophobic" -- meaning she has an aversion or fear to the sight of clusters of small holes or bumps, often causing disgust or discomfort. Looking at sponges and strawberries make her feel like ants are crawling on top of her head! Some of Selena's best memories at Waterloo are by saying "Sure, why not?" to fun adventures with friends or checking out a new event on campus.
Meet with Selena about:
- Support being a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) student
- Help with finding part-time jobs and polishing a resume for your first part-time job
- Practicing your English speaking skills and navigating culture shock
Meet with Simrit Bedi
Biology, Science
Simrit (she/her) loves being active outdoors, whether it's going swimming or playing Frisbee or connecting with animals! Simrit's big tip to students this year is to take care of yourself and don't hesitate to reach out when you need support. Finding a balance between studying and socializing is also very important, Take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s important to recognize when you’re feeling overwhelmed—remember to take breaks and find a balance between studying and socializing. In her free time, you can usually find Simrit hanging out in the Link Inclusion Lounge, so don't be afraid to say hi if you see her hanging out in there!
Meet with Simrit about:
- Getting involved with events on/off campus, specifically with clubs, intramurals, or recreation (SLC/PAC)
- Getting help finding hobbies during your downtime (or when you need a break)
- Study skill strategies and maintaining the workload
English Language Institute (ELI) Peer Leaders
Our English Language Institute (ELI) Peer Leaders provide specific support for English language learners studying in our Renison English Language Institute and Renison International Programs. The Peer Leaders provide one-on-one support and conversation practice for students, host educational workshops and fun social events, as well as facilitating bus trips to destinations across southwestern Ontario.
English Language Institute (ELI) Peer Leaders
Meet with Charles Zhang
Public Health, Health
Charles (he/him) is a Public Health student from China. Charles loves "TV therapy": he once binge-watched Modern Family and Emily in Paris back-to-back during midterms while still acing his exams (impressive!). Charles' first year tip is to not be afraid to ask for help (even if it feels awkward!). Charles' favourite memory at Renison is making his first real university friends, and sharing laughs, tears, and feeling like he truly belonged.
Met with Charles about:
- Practising your communication skills
- Building your study skills
- Adapting to Canadian culture and exploring Waterloo and Ontario
Meet with Cloe Huang
Pscyhology & Environmental Science, Science
Cloe (she/her) is in her fourth-year of Science & Environmental Science at the University of Waterloo. Cloe is from Sichuan, China, and she has many pets: five cats, four parrots and a dog back home in China, and a hamster here in Canada! Cloe's first-year tip is to remember that people at the University of Waterloo are very friendly and supportive, so don't be shy about asking questions! Cloe's favourite Renison memories involve all of the opportunities for cultural exchange and meeting new friends.
Meet with Cloe about:
- Practising your communication skills
- Building your study skills
- Volunteering on-campus and getting involved
Meet with Helen Nguyen
Civil Engineering, Engineering
Helen (she/her) is an international student from Vietnam and is a graduate of Renison's iBASE language program! Helen loves learning about new cultures, trying different foods, and discovering what makes each place she travels to unique. As a student studying in a co-op program, Helen has had experience working in Canada, and adjusting to classroom culture, workplace culture, and just Canadian culture itself!
Meet with Helen about:
- Adapting to Canadian culture and getting connected within the campus community
- Sharing your home culture and learning about other cultures
- Practicing your conversational English and communication skills
- Building co-op and leadership experience in Canada
Meet with Zainab Awaz Ali
Honours Arts and Business, Arts
Zainab (she/her) is an Arts and Business student at the University of Waterloo. Zainab is always eager to talk to new people and get involved on campus. As the first girl in her family to study abroad, she is very familiar with the challenges that come with being an international student. Since completing the EFAS and iBASE programs at Renison, Zainab has loved volunteering on-campus, and finding ways to support new students!
Meet with Zainab about:
- Developing communication and time management skills
- Finding helpful resources on campus
- Overcoming homesickness and culture shock
Meet with Zayyan Ali
Social Development Studies, Arts
Zayyan (he/him) is a third-year Social Development Studies (co-op) student from Scarborough, Ontario, and has lived in Renison during his studies at Waterloo! Zayyan is a big gamer and plays a wide variety of video games such as role-playing games (RPGs) and co-op person-vs.-person games such as Overwatch. Zayyan's best advice for having a great time in Canada is to ensure you visit all of the events and activities available, especially the bus trip. He said the trips really helped him thrive in his first year of university rather than just survive!
Meet with Zayyan about:
- Practicing your conversational English
- Learn about fun things to do in Waterloo in your spare time
- Finding resources on campus
- Building your communication and leadership skills
Student Experience Peer Leaders
Student Experience Peer Leaders
Meet with Brielle Farrow
Student Experience Peer Leader for Daytime Degree students
Social Development Studies, Arts
Brielle (she/her) is a third-year SDS student at Renison who is a big Disney fan (currently, she's watching all the Disney movies in the order they were released!). Brielle helps to run the Renison Academic Student Committee (RASC) and is here to ensure any student who is taking a Renison degree course feels supported and a part of our community. In her free time, Brielle enjoys getting involved with the Christian ministries on campus.
Meet with Brielle about:
- Volunteering and getting involved in your campus community (joining RASC can be a great start - everyone is welcome!)
- Juggling multiple responsibilities and maintaining good time management habits
- Overcoming homesickness and culture shock
Meet with Diya Drabu
Student Experience Peer Leader for Mature and Online Learners
Sexuality, Relationships, and Family Studies, Arts
Diya (she/her) is a third-year Sexuality, Relationships, and Family (SRF) Studies student. Diya is from Delhi, India, and she enjoys learning about other people's experiences, cultures, and stories. She loves learning new languages, dance, calligraphy, and henna designs! Diya enjoys attending the cultural events at Renison because she gets a chance to learn new things about other traditions, foods, or languages, and, of course, meeting kind and welcoming people!
Meet with Diya about:
- Using University of Waterloo systems like Quest, LEARN, and Portal.
- Adjusting to university life as a mature or online student
- Connecting with student support services
Residence Experience Peer Leaders
Residence Experience Peer Leaders
Abby Roman
Social Development Studies, Arts
Abby (she/her) is a third-year SDS student and has been very active in our Renison community during her studies. When she's not found hanging out in the Link Inclusion Lounge or Appleyard Lounge, Abby loves going to concerts -- she has been to almost 20 concerts in the last three years! Abby loves meeting new people and isn't afraid to just knock on someone's door in residence just to introduce herself (she recommends you try it, too!).
Meet with Abby about:
- Getting others connected to both the Renison and wider University of Waterloo community -- ask her about Renisix!
- Accessing 2SLGBTQIA+ support, resources, and the community on campus
- Exploring Waterloo and Ontario, and learning about cool places (or concerts!) to check out
Megan Halmai
Social Development Studies, Arts
Megan (she/her) is from just down the road in Campbellville, Ontario, and is a fourth-year SDS student. Megan is convinced that one of the best ways to build friendships is by not being scared to going to the Renison events alone because you'll meet so many incredible people. Megan's role supports all residence students, but she especially supports SDS students living in our Living-Learning Community at Renison. Don't be afraid to reach out if you're needing tips or advice with navigating your SDS courses - or especially when it comes to picking future courses, too!
Meet with Megan about:
- Building effective study skills for the SDS courses at Renison
- Overcoming homesickness and culture shock in our campus community
- Mental health wellness and finding a healthy school/social life balance
Social Development Studies (SDS) Peer Leaders
Social Development Studies is a degree program offered by Renison University College. The SDS Peer Leaders help to support students in their adjustment to university life by hosting a variety of educational workshops, study sessions, social sessions, networking events with Faculty, as well as one-on-one peer support.
Social Development Studies (SDS) Peer Leaders
Megan Halmai
Social Development Studies, Arts
Megan (she/her) is from just down the road in Campbellville, Ontario, and is a fourth-year SDS student. Megan is convinced that one of the best ways to build friendships is by not being scared to going to the Renison events alone because you'll meet so many incredible people. Megan's role supports all residence students, but she especially supports SDS students living in our Living-Learning Community at Renison. Don't be afraid to reach out if you're needing tips or advice with navigating your SDS courses - or especially when it comes to picking future courses, too!
Meet with Megan about:
- Building effective study skills for the SDS courses at Renison
- Overcoming homesickness and culture shock in our campus community
- Mental health wellness and finding a healthy school/social life balance
Milo Penney
Social Development Studies, Arts
Milo (they/them) is a third-year SDS student who enjoys connecting with others one on one! As an introvert, Milo still enjoys going to events to make new friends and recommends it as an important way to feel more comfortable with your study life at Waterloo. When Milo isn't found in the Link Inclusion Lounge watching movies, they are enjoy going thrifting and collecting trinkets.
Meet with Milo about:
- Navigating study life as an SDS student and thriving in your courses
- 2SLGBTQIA+ support, especially for queer and trans students who may wish to connect about transition and queer experience help and resources
- Building effective time management and study skills
- Enhancing your communication and leadership skills - even when you're an introvert!
Inclusion Coordinator (BSW)
The Inclusion Coordinator is a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) practicum student who facilitates well-being and belonging events in our Link Inclusion Lounge, and coordinates opportunities to reinforce a welcoming and inclusive community for all students at Renison, including equity-deserving students.
They can also provide peer support for students. Find the Inclusion Cooridnator in their office in the Link Inclusion Lounge (REN 1401) on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, or sign up for a one-on-one meet-up with them!
Inclusion Coordinator
Bachelor of Social Work, Arts
Claire has been part of the Renison community for the past year, and is now studying in our Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program and completing her practicum as Renison's Inclusion Coordinator. Claire loves languages, and can speak English, Russian, and French. When she's not hanging out with her best pal, Frankie (her adorable cat), she is also a big history geek who loves talking about anything related to the Roman Empire, the Romanov family, World War II, but especially dark history.
Meet with Claire about:
- Finding ways to connect in your Renison community and to learn about the events happening in our Link Inclusion Lounge
- How to build your communication skills, time management skills, and leadership skills
- Strategies to strengthen mental health wellness and support with advocating for your own needs
Wellness Peer Leader
Our Wellness Peer Leader is here to help you stay well during your studies! The Wellness Peer Leader leads events and activities that can help you build your mental and physical wellness, as well as connect you with wellness programming and services at Renison and the University of Waterloo.
Wellness Peer Leaders
Meet with Kayla Isley
Social Development Studies
Kayla (she/her) is Renison's Wellness Peer Leader! Kayla is here to support all students registered in at least one course at Renison and/or living in Renison Residence! As a Wellness Peer Leader, Kayla can help you develop strategies and learn about resources that support your mental and physical well-being. Kayla also leads events and activities that are designed to promote wellness and connect students with wellness-related resources and services on campus.
Meet with Kayla about:
- Strategies for staying well while studying at university
- Overcoming homesickness or culture shock
- Mental health and finding resources on campus
Student Experience and Housing (SEAH) Staff
The Student Experience and Housing (SEAH) team is here to support all Renison students through housing, activities, academic support, English language support, and more. You can meet with a member of the SEAH team to ask any questions, get referrals to main-campus supports, or just chat about life in university. The team is always here to connect with you.
Student Experience and Housing Staff
Meet with Andrew Dixon
Learning Skills Advisor
Office: Lusi Wong Library
Andrew completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Victoria with bachelor's degrees in Education and Arts. As a Learning Skills Advisor, Andrew is here to support all students during their academic journey. Andrew can help you with:
- Building effective learning strategies and study habits
- Time management strategies so you can keep track of tests, assignments, and appointments
- Effective note-taking skills and getting the most out of your courses
- Preparing for tests and quizzes and reducing test anxiety
- Navigating the University of Waterloo campus services, including tutoring and learning support resources
Meet with Ryan Connell
Assistant Director, Student Experience & Housing
Office: REN 1108 (Renison Ministry Centre)
Ryan is a proud graduate from the Social Development Studies program at the University of Waterloo. As your Assistant Director, Student Experience & Housing, Ryan is very knowledgeable about all of the campus services and resources available to University of Waterloo students. Ryan grew up in a small town called Thunder Bay in Northern Ontario, and he is addicted to iced cappuccinos from Tim Horton's. Some of Ryan's most popular things to talk about include:
- All of the campus services available to you as a Waterloo student and what you are able to access to support your academic and personal success
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student
- Advice for studying in an online environment. Fun fact: Ryan completed his UWaterloo degree, two college certificates, and a Masters degree completely online
- Tips for adjusting to Canadian culture and building your language skills outside of the classroom
Meet with Laura Mutton
Administrative Assistant
Office: REN 0208 (Student Experience & Housing Hallway)
Laura is a graduate of the Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies program at the University of Waterloo and St. Jerome’s University. Following the completion of her undergraduate degree, Laura completed her Master of Education in Social Justice Education at OISE at the University of Toronto. Laura can assist you with questions related to Renison residence, as well as Student Experience events and activities. Some things you can discuss with Laura include:
- Questions related to living in Renison Residence, as well as off-campus in our local community, including Homestay
- Support with living on your own for your first time and how to navigate the transition
- Suggestions for effectively living with a roommate and having a fun experience in Residence
- How to get involved in your Renison community
Meet with Thalia Criollo Guerrero
Student Experience Coordinator
Office: REN 0209 (Student Experience & Housing Hallway)
Thalia Criollo Guerrero (she/her) is a proud graduate of the Honours Music program at UWaterloo with a minor in Digital Communication. Thalia began her journey at Waterloo by studying in Renison’s Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE) program. During her undergraduate degree, Thalia worked as an active member in the Renison community through the ELI Student Leadership Team, working as an ELI Peer Leader, and as a Renison Residence don! Thalia’s role at Renison is to support all students, with a special focus on students studying in our English Language Institute (ELI) programs and overseeing Renison’s Conversation Partner Program.
Popular things to meet with Thalia about are:
- Navigating culture shock and adjusting to new environments, including homesickness.
- How to thrive as a university student by learning about the student services and resources available to you.
- Getting involved as a student leader and making the most of your student experience at Renison.
- Conversation practice in both English and Spanish!
Meet with Jen Burton
Housing Manager
Office: REN 0207 (Student Experience & Housing Hallway)
Jen is an alumna from Brock University in St. Catharine's where she studied Business Communications. As a proud Blue Jays fan, Jen is here to talk about all things baseball. You may also meet our honourary Reni-friends around Renison - Jen's children, Bryce and Hailey. As our Housing Manager, Jen is here to support students in having a meaningful residence experience. Jen can help you with:
- Questions related to living in Renison Residence, as well as off-campus in our local community
- Support with living on your own for your first time and how to navigate the transition
- Suggestions for effectively living with a roommate and having a fun experience in Residence
- How to get involved in your Renison community
Meet with Rev. Scott McLeod
Chaplain
Office: REN 1108 (Renison Ministry Centre)
Rev. Scott McLeod is the Chaplain at Renison University College. Scott is a friendly face and a safe space to talk about anything and everything. Scott enjoys talking about spiritual questions, but you don’t have to talk about religion unless you want to. Some of the most popular things Scott likes to help with include:
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student, including managing stress.
- Guidance to student services at the University of Waterloo as well as referrals to professional medical and health services in the local community.
- Spiritual care including acting as a spiritual director, helping students with faith questions, and valuing our spiritual lives.
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Pastoral care including being a listening ear, a safe person to talk to, and supporting people as they live through life's struggles.
Meet with Stefany Kraft
Student Experience Coordinator
Office: REN 0206 (Student Experience & Housing Hallway)
Stefany Kraft is the queen of all things Renison! Stefany is a proud graduate from UWaterloo, where she double majored in Peace and Conflict Studies and Renison's Social Development Studies program. Stefany also completed her Bachelor of Social Work at Renison, where she completed her practicum in our Student Experience & Housing department as a Wellness Coordinator. During her undergraduate degree, Stefany worked as an English Language Institute Peer Leader, and volunteered extensively, including with Renison Academic Student Council (RASC) and as the student representative for Renison's Board of Governors. Stefany is here to help students have a phenomenal Renison experience. You can connect with Stefany to talk about:
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student, including managing stress
- Guidance to student services at the University of Waterloo and what resources are available as a Waterloo student
- How to get involved and make the most of your student experience at Renison
- Conversation practice and learning more about life in Canada
Meet with Tim Farley
Manager, Food Services and Special Projects
Office: Renison Cafeteria
Tim Farley is our Head Chef at Renison but his portfolio of responsibilities includes being our Manager, Food Services and Special Projects, including support with our Facilities team. Tim loves to talk about food and is here to support you with anything to ensure you have a nutritious and delicious experience while at Renison!
You can meet with Tim to chat about:
- Any dietary requirements or restrictions needed to enjoy your regular meals in the Cafeteria
- Tips for how to navigate the meal options in the Cafeteria each day, and how to find what you need to have a great meal
- How to access your meals when you have classes, work, or other life responsibilities during the regular meal times when the Cafeteria are open.
Moose Tracks Connection Desk Assistants
Our Moose Tracks Connection Desk is a "students helping students" front desk at the college that provides support for students. Moose Tracks provides wayfinding and directions around the college, sells snacks and drinks, distributes packages for students in residence, and helps students with questions about life at the University of Waterloo and Renison.
Meet your Connection Desk Assistant team!
While you can't sign up for a meet-up with the Moose Tracks Connection Desk staff, you can just drop by the desk to visit them instead to ask questions or chat!
Fifer Liu
Hometown: China
Program: Honours Science with a Minor in Biophysics
Fun fact: I once learned to play a song on four different instruments , just so I could say I was a one-person band. Still working on my drumming skills though.....
First-year tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whether it’s about coursework, campus resources, or how to do laundry without turning everything pink , asking early saves you way more stress later.
Favourite memory: One time, right after class, I accidentally fell asleep on one of the sofas at Renison, right in front of an event poster. Someone took a photo for the poster, and later it ended up on Renison’s Instagram account..... You can see me in the corner of the photo, looking like I was having the comfiest nap ever. It still makes me laugh every time I think about it.
Ikran Abullahi Mohamed
Hometown: Kitchener, Ontario
Program: Public Health
Fun fact: I have a passion for cooking and baking and enjoy trying new dishes from different cultures, especially desserts. I am also an avid reader and always eager to receive book recommendations. If you have any favourites, please feel free to share them with me.
First-year tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether it is with academic matters, adjusting to a new environment, or simply figuring things out. There are many friendly people and helpful resources available to support you. Also, be sure to say yes to events whenever you can. Even if you only attend briefly, you might make some wonderful new friends.
Favourite memory: One of my favourite memories was attending a Girls Movie Night with some close friends. I brought along some homemade baked goods, and we spent the evening laughing, watching our favourite throwback films, and chatting about everything from books to our future dreams. It reminded me how comforting it is to be surrounded by people who make you feel like yourself.
Johanna Ayuste
Hometown: Kitchener, Ontario
Program: Biology
Fun fact: I have a pet bunny named Ube (pronounced Oo-bay) and recently went on exchange to South Korea in Pohang.
First-year tip: Go to class and don't forget to take notes! But also don't forget to take breaks to not get burnt out from your studies!
Favourite memory: Making friends with my fellow Moose Tracks team and with Jasmine the don when we were both doing our co-ops at Renison! ☺️
Lijie (Emily) Chu
Hometown: Qingdao, China
Program: Economics Masters
Fun fact: I’m from a coastal city, but I’m not a big fan of seafood.
First-year tip: Stay optimistic and hug the chaos! First year is about exploring—say 'yes' to unexpected opportunities, especially the ones that thrill you.
Favourite memory: One of my favorite memories was participating in Renison's Open House Day! Meeting so many new friends while welcoming potential students brought back the excitement of my own first day at Renison - it felt like reliving that wonderful experience all over again!
Ray Wang
Hometown: China
Program: Honours Physics
Fun fact: I am a student come from china, 2+2 program, majoy in physics. I am interested in learning new language and enjoying the culture diversity. I can speak mandarin, english. I used to learn a little bit of Janpanese. I traveled to Brazil before. I like playing soccer, hiking, camping.
First-year tip: Make more friends, enjoying the beauty of nature, develop some hobbies, take some times on studying and gym.
Favourite memory: The teacher in Renison who teaches me English are so nice! We play games, talking about life in Canada, sharing our stories. Besides, I also have so much fun on bonfire night.
Victoria Noel
Hometown: Calgary, Alberta
Program: Arts and Business
Fun fact: I love music, reading and travelling. I enjoy exploring places and different genres of music and books.
First-year tip: If you need help or clarity on a topic ask for help and try to get to know someone in your program.
Favourite memory: Spending time with friend at events or by watching movies together.
Student Experience Program Assistant (co-op)
Our Student Experience Program Assistant is a co-op position that supports behind-the-scenes in the success of many Renison events, as well as assisting with many administrative projects such as supporting in data management, updating our events webpage, and helping with various special projects.
You can find the Student Experience Program Assistant in REN 0209. They are a great resource for connecting with other members of the SEAH team, event information, and sharing their own experiences in co-op and UWaterloo.
Meet your Student Experience Program Assistants
Parm Chahal
Hometown: Brampton, Ontario
Program: Honours Arts and Business, Arts
Fun Fact: I enjoy bike riding and anything outdoors-related.
First-year tip: Be open to new experiences and don't be shy. Put yourself out there!
Favourite Renison Memory: Learning Korean in my Korea101 Class! I learned how to read, write and identify numbers.