Introducing: Paul Kaita

Meet Paul, a second-year Innis student and one of the ICSS Social Directors, and next year’s Vice President, External!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

Hello! My name is Paul and I am currently a second-year student pursuing an Architecture specialist, with a Math major and minor in Visual Studies. I am extremely proud to be involved with the Innis community and am thrilled to take part in all the amazing opportunities and activities over my time here. Fun fact about me: my middle name is a bubble tea flavour!

What positions do you hold at Innis?

I am currently in my final stretch as one of the ICSS Social Directors. Along with my co-director, Effie Liang, we coordinate a variety of events to build and positively shape the Innis Community. Over this past year, we have organized a Trip to Canada’s Wonderland, Democracy Nights, and most notably, Innis Formal! Stay tuned for our final event INNIS BANG on April 4th, celebrating the accomplishments over the school year! I also work at the Front Desk, where I may have greeted you at 2am giving you your Limited Use Key or seen giving Residence tours to prospective students!

What has been the most rewarding thing about being on the ICSS? The most challenging?

The most rewarding thing about being on the ICSS is seeing all the smiling and excited faces of Innis Students. Effie and I were privileged to be in a position that brings together huge portion of Innis just to have fun in the stress of U of T. Furthermore, seeing all the ideas on paper come to fruition amazes me. My goal as Social Director was to increase involvement within the Innis community and demonstrate its importance to the university experience. Through the events that we organized, I feel that we have accomplished this while being on the ICSS. We have been able to meet so many Innis Students and it has shown me the diversity here at Innis!

However, the most challenging part is accommodating for all students. Since Innis thrives on its diversity, there are so many factors that we must think about when planning events and coming up with new ideas. It is very difficult to create events that everyone will enjoy because everyone is different.

What are you excited about for next year?

Next year and over the summer, I will be planning Innis Orientation 2019 along with my co-coordinator, Michelle Zhang, and our Executive Team. I am excited to see all the eager incoming students ready to start their university life and plan a variety of events that they will enjoy. So, if you are interested in being on the Orientation Exec Team or as a leader, applications will be posted in April! Seeing these incoming students will bring me back to the good times and meeting all my awesome friends I have today! I am also excited to see how next year’s ICSS Council will implement their thoughts and ideas for the new school year. There are many possibilities towards this new group of students dedicated towards enhancing the university experience.

Any advice for first year Paul?

To first-year Paul, take life in the moment and make decisions that you want to pursue and not fear what will happen after. Although tomorrow is unknown, today is visible and must be lived to the fullest. Always live in the NOW and the future will align. Also, remember that there is a lot of support around you! Make use of this support, whether it be your friends or academic resources, and constantly grow from them. They are and always will be there for you!

Introducing: Emma Paulus

Meet Emma Paulus, a first-year Innis student and the First-Year Off-Campus Representative on the ICSS!

Tell us about yourself! What year are you and what are you studying?

Hi! My name is Emma Paulus and I am a first year student here at Innis. I am going to be majoring in religion, with a minor in Spanish and History.

What positions do you hold at Innis?

At Innis, I am currently the ICSS first year commuter rep. I also write for the college paper, The Innis Herald.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being on the ICSS? The most challenging?

The most rewarding thing about being on the ICSS is definitely getting to meet so many Innis students. Being a commuter, it can be difficult to meet new people, especially people from Innis. Being able to host events has given me the opportunity to meet so many people who I might not have been able to meet otherwise.

The most challenging part of being on the ICSS has probably been organizing our event at Ripley’s Aquarium. The event was the largest one that I and the other first year reps planned, and it took a lot of planning. The challenge was definitely worth it, though, because the event ended up going very well and we had a great turn out.

What were the difficulties running in an election? What were the best parts?

The most difficult part of running in an election for me was putting myself out there so that I could get to know people who would possibly vote for me.

Any upcoming events that you’re excited for?

Actually, the first year reps will be having our last event towards the end of the month. We are planning an event called Grind and Dine, which will have multiple components including a group study, food, and destress activities. The event will be posted on the ICSS Instagram and Facebook, so be sure to look out for it!

Introducing: Al-amin Ahamed

Meet Al-amin, a third-year Innis student and the Social Innovation Chair for the Office of Student Life!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

I am a third year student double majoring in Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences.

What positions do you hold at Innis?

I currently work for the Office of Student Life as the Social Innovation Chair. I’m also a Student Ambassador for the Innis College New Build and have been the Food Executive for the 2018 Orientation.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being the Social Innovation Chair? The most challenging?

Being able to make a difference within the Innis College community by promoting renewable and sustainable practices has been quite satisfying. Helping students network and meet inspirational social entrepreneurs and innovators to then become inspired to pursue unconventional career paths is just the cherry on top. The most challenging thing has really just been spreading awareness. Not everyone is aware of social impact and it’s difficult to spark interest especially when no one has the time to hear what you have to say.

Are there any upcoming events that you’re excited for?

CAREERS WITH PURPOSE! I’ve been very active in the planning process and the recruiting of really interesting ‘living books’ for the living library event on March 13th. It’s definitely a very eye opening experience to be able to network with influential people in a variety of fields. It’s also super refreshing to learn about unconventional career paths that help the world for the better and possibly influence others to follow.

How can learning about social innovation benefit students?

It helps educate students on sustainable and renewable practices that will benefit all people and the globe in the long run. Taking the time to learn about other very important roles that help keep the world running may just allow you to find new interests and passions and possibly discover and future career path. Social innovation allows you to grow and access real social issues and its super rewarding to be able to tackle them.

Any advice for first-year Al?

GET INVOLVED! School is definitely important but taking the time to get involved in a variety of clubs and activities is essential in making the most out of your university experience. It gives you a reason to come to school and builds new interests and networks that can benefit you in the long run. I know it’s intimidating but maybe start with clubs and activities you have a passion for and then build your networks to try new experiences and build new skill sets.

Introducing: Ishan Sharma

Meet Ishan, a second-year Innis student and the Skills Team Lead for the OSL!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

I’m a second year international student in the Computer Science Specialist Program.

What positions do you hold at Innis?

I work at the Office of Student Life, as a Team Lead for Community Development through the Skills portfolio. We provide services through programming to encourage learning outside the classroom! Apart from that, I am one of the ambassadors for the new build at Innis and like to be involved here and there 🙂

What has been the most rewarding thing about being a Community Development Team Lead? The most challenging?

Being the Team Lead means that often you have to coordinate a lot of things at once to make into one final program/event. This rewards you with a lot of leadership and management skills. Apart from that, the appreciation you get from others and reflection on how the event went out is also something to look forward to. The challenging part is that for any successful programming there’s a lot of parameters that need to be checked and often they need to be done at very random times. This is hard to manage with school and unprecedented events like the snowstorm.

Are there any upcoming events that you’re excited for?

Yes! There’s a Humanities and Social Sciences event coming up on Feb 26 for students in those areas who want to interact with upper year mentors for any question they have. We, in partnership with the ICSS, are also organizing a trip to the Ripley’s Aquarium on Feb 26 as well. Lastly, I hope to end the semester with a nice stress-buster movie night.

Have any study tips for midterms?

Have faith in yourself and don’t overwork yourself. Health comes first.

Any advice for first-year Ishan?

Don’t be stressed about doing everything at once and then hope to succeed equally in all of them. The brain is a muscle not a computer! Workout more 😀

Introducting: Effie Liang

Meet Effie Liang, a second-year Innis student and one of the Social Directors for the ICSS!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

Hey Innis! My name is Effie Liang. I was born and raised in Scarborough, so Toronto has been home for me for a long time. I am currently in my second year of undergraduate studies, double majoring in Sociology and Equity Studies. One thing I am interested in studying in Sociology is the qualitative methods we use to observe social issues. In Equity Studies, we discuss many things about social justice and the ways in which intersectional concepts affect Canada as a neo-liberal state power or institution. Besides academics, I have been a part of the Innis College Choir, which have been like my family since first year. If I’m not involved in music, I love trying out new food places and getting to know people at Innis events!

What positions do you hold at Innis?

Currently, I hold one of the two Social Director positions for the Innis College Student Society (ICSS). Paul Kaita, the other Social Director, is my partner in crime. I am also a mentor for InSIGHT, which is Innis College’s mentorship program.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being a Social Director? The most challenging?

The most rewarding thing about being a Social Director is seeing the ideas we come up with become a reality. It’s fascinating to see the process of working with other people to organize the event, and then seeing people actually come to the event! Our vision for this year is to fully embrace Innis College, no matter how small others say it is, and build a closer community. We want to be inclusive to all Innis Students; welcoming them into our spaces, as everyone isn’t necessarily comfortable reaching out to students they don’t know. We want to be respectful of that as much as possible and strive to do our best to provide positive, social places for Innis students to interact with one another at UofT.

The most challenging thing is the collaboration between Social Directors as well as accommodating for all types of students at Innis. Many event venues we look for in the GTA are not accessible for many people with exceptionalities. It can be difficult to find a venue that will suit your vision, so you almost always have to compromise something.

Are there any upcoming events that you’re particularly excited for?

Innis Formal is a huge event for Social Directors and I am excited to see it all come together. It’s on Mar 1, so mark your calendars! The ICSS has many ongoing events, especially Equity and Outreach working on the Benefit Concert on Feb 9, which raises awareness of mental health. It’s important for us as Social Directors to promote not only our events but also other portfolios who work just as hard to organize events for the Innis community!

Any advice for first-year Effie?

The important piece of advice is that you should only do things you want to do and have the time for. There’s always an expectation that comes with being involved in the university life, whether it be academics or social life. Taking the time to do things I have to do and not trying so hard to attend every event would have made my first year a bit less hectic. Learn how to effectively read, using the writing resources and actually getting to know the professors would have been a benefit for me as well.

Introducing: Michelle Zhang

Meet Michelle Zhang, a second-year Innis student and the ICSS Equity & Outreach Director!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

Hey! My name is Michelle and I’m a second year double majoring in Peace, Conflict, and Justice Studies and Urban Studies, with a minor in Political Science. I love connecting with the people around me, and honestly the people at Innis can’t be beat. I’m lucky to have called Innis home as a first year, and to still be constantly surrounded by engaged and interesting individuals in this small but tight knit – dare I say – family.

What positions do you hold at Innis?

Along with my partner Megan Pham-Quan, I direct the ICSS Equity and Outreach Portfolio. Together, we work to make Innis a safe and inclusive space for all students, as well as start conversations about some of the most pertinent issues our student communities face on a day to day basis. I might have also greeted you with a “good morning” at 1pm when I work at the Innis Residence Front Desk, or you might have spotted my name under “Managing Editor” on the Innis Herald Masthead.

What has been the most rewarding thing about being an Equity & Outreach Director? The most challenging?

There is certainly a lot of responsibility that comes with work around equity issues, as the positions we take can interact with peoples’ lives in very tangible and far reaching ways. Megan and I often act in an advisory capacity both within and outside of council, and that often means constantly thinking through all the toughest issues at UofT. Additionally, our outreach duties require that we constantly be engaging and connecting with students and other campus groups during and between our events. Being conscious of that round-the-clock responsibility can be mentally exhausting sometimes. That being said, when I see people come out to learn and enjoy themselves at an event we organize, every early morning meeting, every late night spent with emails, every last-minute dash to Metro, becomes totally worth it. After all, building a sense of inclusion and community is a big part of what we do, and being able to see the results of our efforts in the smiles of Innisians is always thrilling.

Are there any causes that are particularly important to you?

I’ve lived in Toronto for almost my entire life. However, I look around me and see things like the breakneck speed of recent neighbourhood gentrification, intensifying income inequality, the wavering state of our public transit expansion plans, and I am struck by how quickly my city is changing around me. I am especially concerned that my city is becoming one where the right to exist and occupy space is reserved for an increasingly exclusive few. Without going into too many specifics, I have actively written and voiced my support for policies and initiatives that I believe will move us toward an equitable and diverse Toronto that is capable of protecting its own integrity.

Any advice for first-year Michelle?

Be spontaneous and live in the moment, and don’t take things too seriously! All sorts of people and stories and opportunities will come your way. Even if you don’t recognize what’s knocking at your door, make sure you invite it in for a coffee and a chat before passing judgement on it. No matter what, though, listen to your gut. You already know deep down who you are and where you stand. Breathe, listen, trust, and stand up for yourself. And if you’re still stuck, know that there is a huge support network at Innis that is there to help you.

Introducing: Nancy Zhao

Meet Nancy Zhao, a second-year Innis student, the ICSS Vice-President Internal and InSIGHT Co-Head!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

Hello! My name is Nancy and I am a second year student specializing in Computer Science and minoring in Linguistics. I love getting involved around the community – especially at Innis College, where the welcoming spirit, commitment to a great university experience, and emphasis on student engagement all make me proud to be a part of Innis.

What positions do you hold at Innis?

At Innis, I am Vice-President Internal of the Innis College Student Society, I co-chair and mentor as part of the InSIGHT Mentorship Program, and I work for the Innis Communications Team as Digital Media Assistant. You might also see my photography in the Innis Herald and on the Innis Inspirations Facebook page!

What has been the most rewarding thing about being the InSIGHT Co-Chair? The most challenging?

As InSIGHT Co-Chair, I’m very grateful to be able to give back to the community that has provided me with so much support in my first year. The program aims to foster meaningful connections between first year mentees and upper year mentors in similar programs of study, which has been rewarding to coordinate and see – especially as the transition into university can be an intimidating and turbulent time, and so receiving guidance from someone who has been through similar experiences is very helpful. A challenge that Lucy (Mentorship Team Lead), Dasha (my fellow InSIGHT Co-Chair), and I face is building a culture of mentorship, where the value of mentorship as a mutually beneficial relationship is prominent. There is the misconception that mentorship is always a one-way street; however, mentors can take away just as much learning and growth from the experience as mentees do.

Do you have a mentor?

I’m lucky to have had many mentors – from teachers, to upper year students, to professionals in the industry that I’m interested in – who have provided invaluable guidance throughout the years. This year, I’m participating in the Innis Alumni Mentorship Program, where students are matched with alumni of similar field of study or work. Shout out to my mentor who shares very insightful discussion on academic, co-curricular, and career life!

Any advice on studying and de-stressing for exams?

In these busy times, with final assignments to complete and exams to study for, it’s so important to remember to set aside time for yourself. Spend some time with valued people, on hobbies, on resting, anything that can take your mind off the exam period stress. It’s difficult to perform at your best when studying 24/7, so be sure to take breaks! You got this!

Any advice for first-year Nancy?

Be present in the moment. Don’t be afraid to explore new things and meet new people, you’ll learn so much from each one and create amazing memories along the way. Make the most out of the myriad of opportunities out there, but also remember that balance is key. Study smart and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Take care of yourself and believe in yourself, it’ll all work out in the end.

Introducing: Jess Stewart-Lee

Meet Jess Stewart-Lee, a fourth-year Innis student, and President of the Cinema Studies Student Union!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

I’m in my 4th year studying Cinema Studies and Diaspora and Transnational studies! I’m currently a work-study student doing the graphic design of the Innis OSL, the Video Editor for The Varsity, and the president of CINSSU (the Cinema Studies Student Union)

What is your position on the Cinema Studies Student Union?

I’m the president! In past years I have been print promoter, special events co-ordinator, and vice-president.

What upcoming events do you have planned?

We’re looking ahead to the start of our Spectacle Film Series, which is in collaboration with CSI and is a series of 4 films which are meant to be seen on the big screen. We’re starting Nov 29 in Innis Town Hall with The Sound of Music! We also have a Cinema Studies student social on Nov 30 at Snakes & Lattes!

What has been the most difficult part of your new position? The most rewarding?

It’s been hard adjusting to being the one in charge, especially as part of a student union and knowing that I am leading a group which represents so many students, many of whom are my peers. I love the opportunity to work with younger students, though, and to actually use and pass on all the knowledge that I’ve accumulated in my years in the program.

Any advice for first-year Jess?

University isn’t scary! You’ll meet so many incredible people and learn so much, and even though moving across the country seems like a big step, it’s the best decision you’ll ever make.

Introducing: Megan Pham-Quan

Meet Megan Pham-Quan, a second-year Innis student and one of the Equity and Outreach Directors on the ICSS.

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

My name is Megan and I am a second-year Women and Gender Studies Major with a Philosophy and French Studies Minor. A year and a few months have passed by incredibly quickly and over the course of my time as an Innis student, I have met some remarkable people and found a home within the Innis community. I love everything about Innis: its active student engagement, its meme bracket victory, and its approachable student government to name a few.

What is your position on the Innis College Student Society?

In collaboration with Michelle Zhang, I am in charge of the Equity and Outreach portfolio of the Innis College Student Society. As Equity and Outreach Directors, our job is to ensure that Innis is welcoming and inclusive to all students. We will also be organizing equity-themed events to raise awareness about the issues that impact us all.

Are there any charitable causes that are important to you?

Frontier College, founded in 1899, is a national literacy organization that works to address social barriers such as poverty, poor health, and high unemployment by ensuring that everyone has equal access to educational opportunities. We work with volunteers and community partners to identify populations in Toronto that are vulnerable to low literacy rates and organize targeted programs to give people the skills and confidence that they need to reach their potential and contribute to society.

I first got involved with Frontier College in first year as a volunteer tutor. It is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community. If you are interested in volunteering as a tutor, please reach out to utoronto@frontiercollege.ca.

What future events or fundraisers do you have planned?

At the end of Nov, we will be running the annual ICSS Movember Shave-Off. Throughout the month of Nov, we will be raising money for the Movember Foundation which works to raise funds and awareness for men’s health. On Nov 28 from 7-10PM, come out to the Innis Cafe to see your Innis friends complete the most wacky of hair challenges. If you want to see your very own IRC President, Daniel Li, go bald, come through with your donations! For more information, check out the Facebook event.

Throughout the year, Jeruby Retnakanthan will be working with the Equity and Outreach portfolios to develop INtersections, a periodical column exploring equity-related issues through interviews with Innis students. Keep an eye out in The Innis Herald and Innis Inspirations.

Any advice for first-year Megan?

Transitioning into university life is difficult. Move at your own pace and remember to reach out to the support networks in place at Innis (your dons, the Registrar, other upper year leaders) if you need help.

Introducing: James Chapman

Meet James Chapman, a fourth-year Innis student, and the editor-in-chief of The Innis Herald!

Tell us a bit about yourself! What year are you in and what are you studying?

My name is James Chapman and I am a fourth-year student at Innis College studying political science and urban studies. As a former Residence Don, ICSS Director, and IRC Representative, I love everything about Innis College from its quirky history, to its bizarre architecture style, to its active student body.

What is your position on the Innis Herald?

This year I am the Editor-in-Chief of the Innis Herald. This means that I am in charge of overseeing the production of the paper, from the creation of content to publication. I run our executive meetings and support our team to make sure we produce the highest quality paper as possible. It’s our team who really makes it happen, however. From gathering and creating content, to editing and layout, to posting online, and to keeping our bank account in check, our executive team and group of writers, illustrators, and photographers ensure we produce each edition.

What are you most proud of in the most recent issue of the Herald?

I am really proud of the most recent edition of The Herald as a whole. The casual writing style of many of our pieces reflects the paper’s history as a fun read for members of the College. This issue’s two short story pieces and advice columns particularly highlight this. We also have more coverage of Innis-specific issues with our college’s scorebox and pieces about students’ political adventures. Coverage of the College’s colourful history also expanded as we retold the stories of the alumnus Bob Bossin’s college anthem and Innisfree Farm. The cover photo of the paper is also an allusion to a past edition in which another case of urban upheaval saw a beaver was placed on the cover, gnawing at the city’s most iconic landmark.

What are your goals for the Herald this year? What kind of stories would you like to cover?

We want to continue to make The Herald relevant to the college community. While our limited number of editions makes it difficult for us to publish breaking news on campus, the way The Varsity might, The Herald is meant to tell the story of Innis students. We are looking to focus on our college’s in-house programs, issues within the College’s vast student life, and students’ opinions on the outside world. We are also looking to retrace The Herald’s less serious past with more quirky content, you can’t find anywhere else.

How can students become involved with student newspapers?

We are constantly looking for new writers, illustrators, and photographers. For students, the paper can be a great way to get your work published and consumed by a wider audience including guests of the College, administrators, and students from across campus. All students need to do to sign-up is email Louisa at creative.herald@gmail.com with your area of interest and she’ll add you to our mailing list.

Any advice for first-year James?

My advice for first year students is to find something you love doing on campus and spend time doing it. University is a unique time to participate in activities you might not get to do in the future.

I don’t think I will be the editor of a community newspaper like The Herald in the future, but I love finding cool content to add to it and helping to tell Innis’s story. It’s what I most enjoy doing with my time on campus and it’s made my four years at Innis really enjoyable!