Meet Sarah Chocano, a second-year Innis student, an ICSS Equity and Outreach Director,  an InSIGHT Mentor, and an IRC Senior House Rep.

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

I am a second-year international student from Peru doing an Anthropology specialist and a Latin American Studies minor. I am obsessed with dogs, I cry when I see them. Another interesting fact about me is that I am vegan and I love vegan food. Also, The Office and Game of Thrones are favourite shows.

What’s your favourite thing about Innis?

My favourite thing about Innis is that it is a close-knit community, which has allowed me to meet wonderful people and make amazing friends. I come from a small town and I feel that Innis allowed me to successfully transition into Toronto.

Favourite course you’ve taken so far?

My favourite course so far in ANT343: Anthropology of Gender. I love this course so much because it has taught me interesting theories on the society we live in and has encouraged me to be more aware of how I preform my gender on a daily basis.

What are you involved in outside of the classroom?

Outside the classroom I try to be involved as much as I possibly can. Within the college, I am one of the Equity and Outreach Directors in the ICSS and an InSIGHT Mentor. I am involved in residence as a senior house representative in IRC. I am also one of the Instagram managers for the UofT VegClub.

What is your role with InSIGHT? What has the experience been like?

My role in with InSIGHT is providing mentorship. Right now, I mentor two awesome first year students. This experience has been amazing because it has allowed help me to help first years to have a better transition into university.

How do you think mentors also benefit from mentorship programs?

I think that mentors benefit from the mentorship program because we learn from our mentees. Being a mentor forces you to reflect on your own experiences integrating into the UofT community, as well as becoming more aware of the resources the university has to offer.

How do you think first-year international students benefit from InSIGHT or similar mentorship programs?

I think that international students can benefit from InSIGHT or similar mentorship programs because having a mentor will allow them to have a better transition into university and Canada. Classes can seem intimidating, especially when you are in a new country.

What does mentorship mean to you?

I love the InSIGHT Mentorship program because it is a great way to help others transition into university and allows you to reflect on things that have been working for you, academically and mentally. I started this program in my first year as a mentee and learned a lot from my mentor. Now that I am a mentor I have learned a lot from my mentees.

Any advice for first-year Sarah?

I would advise first-year Sarah to not be afraid to get involved and to believe in herself a little bit more. Also, that putting effort on the things you love will get you places.