Program: 3rd year Faculty of Health, B.Sc., Spec. Hons. Global Health (Health Promotion and Disease Prevention) 

Background: Problem solver, guide, empower and compassionate listener. I am deeply passionate about giving back to the community through volunteer work, promoting inclusivity and ensuring that every individual’s voice is heard and their concerns are addressed. Navigating university as a mature student can be challenging, but remember, you are not alone. As a peer mentor, I am dedicated to providing you with the resources, tools and support you need to navigate your academic journey. 

Advice: Take full advantage of the resources available at York and don't hesitate to pursue your passions. You’ve got this! 

Hobbies/Interests: I have so many interests, however, I love creating food recipes, playing volleyball and sometimes I knight too.

Program: 4th year, B.A., Hons. Psychology. 

Background: With nearly 20 years in the film and television industry, I specialized in managing initiatives and negotiating contracts across production, distribution, labor and policy. I've contributed to impactful industry initiatives, creating new avenues for growth and nurturing environments. Seeking a more direct impact on people's lives, I pivoted to my passion for mental health, wellness, and community support, prompting my return to university during the pandemic. 

Advice: Embrace every experience as an opportunity for curiosity. It's never too late to go back to school and start anew; age is just a number. 

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy running, crafting, travel and art & photography. Actively involved in LGBTQSI+ communities, I'm currently learning French.

Program: Faculty of Health, Honours BA in Psychology 

Background: I am passionate about helping others navigate their academic and personal journeys. As a student returning to university after several years in the workforce, I bring a unique perspective to mentoring. My journey back to academia has deepened my understanding of the challenges mature students may face, such as balancing studies with work and family responsibilities, and adapting to new learning technologies. Having experienced these transitions firsthand, I am eager to support others in finding their own paths to success, offering guidance and encouragement as they pursue their educational and personal goals. 

Advice: While you are on this unique and personal journey, remember to work hard, stay persistent, and that it's also okay to ask for help during those moments when you feel defeated. 

Hobbies/Interests: I have a keen interest in mental health and physical wellness, and I'm passionate about exploring ways to incorporate self-care into everyday life, such as through reading, cooking or outdoor activities.

Program: Law and Society Honours, 4th Year. 

Background: Returning to university after a significant hiatus has been a rewarding journey. As a mature student, I've received an academic scholarship, awards, and work as a podcast host with Student Counselling, Health & Well-being. Engaging in volunteer roles as YUMSO VP-Engagement, Student Mentoring with ACMAPS & LA&PS, and contributing to the Redpack with YFS, I also hosted a Being Bold talk with the Department of Health on the Mature Student Journey. 

Advice: Don't be too hard on yourself; apply dedication, discipline and determination for success. Explore resources, embrace York's diverse community, and make yourself known to professors and TAs. Enjoy your learning journey—I'm cheering for YOUR success! 

Hobbies/Interests: Passionate about being a basketball referee, wedding officiant, motivational speaker, and philanthropist. I love photography, travel and sports. 

Program: Faculty of Science, Honours BSC Biomedical Science  

Background: I am a second-year Biomedical Science student and a transfer student who values growth and new experiences. I enjoy helping others, whether it’s through sharing advice, supporting peers, or simply being a friendly face on campus. I am passionate about creating a positive and welcoming environment for students, especially those navigating the challenges of university life. I look forward to using my experiences to guide. 

Advice: Don’t skip lessons, I promise you won’t watch that recording tomorrow!  

Hobbies/Interests: Watching K-dramas, learning new languages and about new cultures! 

Program: Hi, I'm Ming, a part-time 4th-year Information Technology major at the School of Information Technology, York University— a mature transfer and immigrant student. 

Background: I've earned scholarships and the NSERC USRA Undergraduate Research Award for 2022, fueling my dedication. Grateful for faculty support, my York involvement focuses on fostering self-esteem through leadership, assisting science students with learning tips and organizing events. 

Advice: Volunteering as a Peer Mentor, I empathize with the challenges you face. York is a unique world; I'm here to ease your transition, offering guidance for academics and social aspects. Embrace the challenge, and I'll help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. 

Hobbies/Interests: Active in LA&PS, Active Minds and York University's Accessibility Services, I've attended numerous events, workshops and conferences. Overcoming language challenges, I improved my communication through student organizations and after-school activities. 

Program: Specialized Hons B.A. Translation, Professional Certificate in Management, Professional Certificate in Technical Writing 

Background: I'm a fourth year student from Glendon College returning to finish my bachelors after a three-year hiatus. I love learning foreign languages but I became very interested in the entrepreneurship space during my hiatus and am now a community volunteer at YSpace Markham. I'm very grateful for the York and Glendon community for being so supportive and understanding of what I needed to do to progress in my academic career. I want to meet and connect with as many people as possible, and hope to leave an impact the same way the school and its community has had on me. 

Advice: Being in a new academic space or coming back after a long time can be daunting, but make sure to use the resources available! Being adaptable, open and asking questions is so important. Reach out even if you don't expect a good response, you may end up surprised. York University especially is not just academics and a degree, it's the place for building relationships. 

Hobbies/Interests: I love learning about linguistic and technological history, that can put me in an internet black hole. Otherwise I love reading, playing piano, fine arts, volleyball, cooking, Sanrio and watching K/C-dramas. But above all travelling and experiencing life; the currency of experience has global value.

Program: Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, B.A., Hons. Dbl. Maj. Political Science & Psychology 

Background: I'm a mature student in my second year here at York University. I was a millwright for a decade, before deciding to go back to school to pursue something more fulfilling. My experience so far has been absolutely amazing. Everyone is so friendly and inviting, it's such a warm environment to learn in. I am also an executive member of York University Mature Student Organization (YUMSO). Whether you are returning to school or if this is your first endeavor, I'm sure that you will see that coming to York university was the best decision to make. 

Advice: The hardest part was having the courage to start this journey. You will have ups and downs, stay the course, you will be glad you did. 

Hobbies/Interests: I love health and nutrition. I find that nothing helps me deal with stress better than hitting the gym for an hour.

Background: I believe in giving back to the community. I understand that pursuing education after years of gap is a difficult journey and we might feel lost on the way. As a mature student, I went through the struggles of staying on track with studies, work and fulfilling family responsibilities. With these new experiences, I want to provide my insights and share my journey with my peer mature students to ensure their transition to York is a smooth one. 

Advice: Take advantage of all the resources York has to offer. Attend workshops and drop by different services throughout the university. 

Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy cooking and biking. It helps me to relieve my stress and focus on my well-being.