MEET
YOUR
CANDIDATES!
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Alessandro Spagnolo
If elected, I will pledge myself to the planning and execution of engaging events for our large population of commuter students. As a commuter student myself, I recognize the need for inclusion and camaraderie; there should be more to life as a post-secondary student than commuting anywhere from one to three hours just for classes. As Off-Campus Students’ Director, I will make it my primary objective to plan out several fun and engaging events, aimed toward removing some stress that accumulates during the school year. I would love to host events such as pub nights, museum nights, study sessions, productivity seminars, and, of course, WCSA Wednesday. I will continuously lobby for the commuter population, so that they may experience the same connections, experiences, and school spirit as their peers who are living on campus.
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Mehrnoosh Motlagh
Hi, my name is Mehrnoosh Motlagh and I am a second-year student pursuing a double major in neuroscience and pharmacology. As a commuter, I have personally experienced the challenges of living off-campus. My primary goal is to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for Woodsworth College off-campus students and be a responsive and accessible advocate for them. I have met many commuting students during Orientation week and throughout the academic year. My conversations with them have given me unique insights into their needs and concerns (such as wanting to participate more in on-campus events). I believe that my experiences engaging and helping at different events as an event coordinator for URSA provides me with the necessary skills to plan different events for studying and networking to promote a sense of belonging among commuter students. Thank you for your consideration
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Nousha Reaz
Hi Wolfpack! My name is Nousha Reaz and I am delighted to be running for off-campus director. I’m a second year double majoring in Peace, Conflict, and Justice, and Political Science. I like F1 and Marvel, but most importantly, I love Woodsworth. As an off campus director I would be dedicated to making life easier for all commuter students. I understand the importance of community, and the struggle to build one while being an off campus student. It is my mission to help students be as involved with campus life as possible - this would include hosting socials, excursions, study sessions; and of course continuing to make delicious pancakes for WCSA Wednesdays. I will ensure that every student feels fully integrated into the Woodsworth experience. Whether you’re twenty minutes or two hours away - You Belong Here!
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Mahnoor Fesal
Hello Wolfpack! I'm Mahnoor, a second-year student pursuing a double major in Psychology and Philosophy, with a minor in Psychology, Buddhism, and Mental Health. I am committed to supporting our Woodsworth Community, both on and off campus. Currently, I serve as an Events Associate at the Pakistani Students Federation, where I gain valuable insights into the expectations and concerns of off-campus students regarding events. I take these insights into account when planning events that cater to our diverse student body. Having experienced both on-campus and off-campus living, I am well aware of the different dynamics in each setting. Commuting from Milton has given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges and exhaustion that commuter students face. Therefore, I am dedicated to making commuters’ experience more comfortable and ensuring that they do not feel isolated and disconnected. You deserve representation that understands, cares, and acts. Let me be that voice for you and I promise not to let you down!
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Harshita Mishra
I’m a 2nd year pursuing a double major in Human Biology and Physiology with a minor in Immunology. I am thrilled to be running for the position of Off-Campus Students’ Director. I believe that WCSA is a place where students, regardless of their location, can connect and interact with each other. An association that voices out the needs of those they are representing and opens new opportunities for them either through social events, academic programs, or volunteer endeavours while also making it entertaining and fun. I am especially passionate about speaking up for Off-Campus students as I firsthand experience the struggles of being one. Staying off-campus can often make one feel disconnected from their college or experience a lack of community. This is something I hope no one should experience, especially not any Wolfpack member because WCSA is the most supportive, helpful, and friendly student association I have come across. Over the summer, I got to be a part of WCSA as the Interim Off-Campus Director for Woodsworth College. I organized the weekly online Summer Photo Challenge and ensured the overall well-being of off-campus students. Volunteering as an Orientation leader with Woodsworth College helped me connect with the college community and refined my leadership and mentorship skills as I guided incoming students through Orientation week.
For those residing Off-Campus, I think the WCSA should serve as a base of support, offering advice on matters such as residence options on and off-campus, transportation and most importantly campus involvement.
Finally, I hope to put knowledge from previous experiences to use and gain a friendly community as well as hone my leadership and communication skills. In the end, my objective as the Off-Campus Students’ Director is to work on the needs and interests of both off-campus and on-campus students while heavily focusing on inclusivity. I would also aim to expand the off-campus committee and hold more accessible events. I look forward to serving Woodsworth as their Off-Campus Student’s Director. Thank You.
Running For: Off Campus Students' Director
Iris Li
Hey Wolfpack!
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My name is Iris, and I'm excited to be running for your Off-Campus Director this year!
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While being a commuter student, I understand the challenges that come with living off-campus and will work diligently to ensure that our voices are heard. I want to create new events and activities that are catered towards commuter students, allowing you to be more engaged and feel more connected. Rather than commuter students going home after classes or studying in the library, I want to create a dedicated space so that commuter students are more inclined to stay on campus and enjoy what Woodsworth has to offer. By hosting weekly WCSA Wednesdays, I hope to promote an environment to encourage Woodsworth students alike to come together and socialize.
I value your support, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of our off-campus students.
Running For: Upper Year Students' Director
Paul Gweon
Hey, students of Woodsworth College! I am running for the Upper Year Students’ Director position at WCSA, which is the current position I hold at WCSA and I wish to continue with the position. I have had great experiences with WCSA in the past year and a half, and I look forward to taking part in it again. During my term, my most notable events were the Cram Jams, and I have generally received positive feedback from the participants. If I get reelected, I look forward to not only hosting successful Cram Jams, but other activities that will benefit students of UofT!
Running For: Upper Year Students' Director
Harshit Jain
Dear fellow students,
Are you ready to make a difference in our college community? Because I sure am! My name is Harshit Jain, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the position of Upper Year Student Director. As a current student, I understand the struggles we face every day.
Let me ask you this - what is college life without a supportive and inclusive environment? It’s not just about academics, but also the social and emotional well-being of each and every one of us. I promise to listen to your concerns and work with you to create a community that we can all be proud of and be more involved in. Let’s make the most out of our college experience and make unforgettable memories along the way.
So I am counting on your support in this upcoming election. Thank you for your time, and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together!
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Alissa Rose
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Running For: Upper Year Students' Director
Riya Cherian
Hey everyone! I am Riya, a second-year majoring in Political Science and Sociology. I am excited to be running for the position of Upper Year Students’ Director and organizing inclusive, insightful, and entertaining events for students. An idea that I want to execute is mixers, for grad school applicants, future test takers, and graduating students. To increase the sense of support amongst the Woodsworth community, I am keen to organize test prep activities or cram jams. I also look forward to holding an increased number of accessible information sessions, so that no Woodsworth student wishing to continue their academic journey is left unsupported. My interest in this position stems from my passion for event planning combined with my desire to pursue graduate school. Finally, I hope to enhance all academic and social experiences for upperclassmen and provide a positive environment.
Running For: International Students' Director
Devarya Singhania
My name is Devarya Singhania, and as your International Students Director candidate, I offer a unique perspective and unwavering commitment. Having lived away from home in a boarding school since middle school, I understand the challenges of isolation, lack of routine, and the transition to adulthood. I empathize with international students' intricate struggles, prioritizing your well-being and success. My experience and involvement with the UofT English Students Union includes coordinating events for international students, guiding major decisions, and maximizing degree value. Engaging with international students as a peer and during orientation, I deeply grasp your concerns. With relatability and expertise, I wholeheartedly advocate for your needs, ensuring a rewarding international student experience. Together, we can ensure that your time here becomes an enriching journey.
Running For: International Students' Director
Megumi Koga
Hello everyone! My name is Meg. I'm a third year and running to be your International Student Director. As an international student, there was a lot to learn when I first arrived. However, having already gone through the struggles of adapting to a new country, I understand the challenges international students may face. As a proud Japanese-Mexican international student, my multicultural upbringing has given me a deep understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives. If elected, I hope to keep our community well-informed about opportunities, disseminate financial guidance, share important resources, as well as organize events and programs to promote community engagement. I hope to make the international student experience as enriching as possible by advocating for your needs and ensuring that our voices are heard.
Running For: International Students' Director
Wanying Yang
Hi, my name is Wanying Yang. I am running for this year’s International Students' Director.
I realize how important international students are for creating a diverse university culture. And I also realize many of us have encountered or are encountering many struggles and challenges as studying abroad. Therefore, I want to provide support to foster a thriving international student community.
If elected, I will actively promote the interaction between international students and local communities by organizing meaningful events and peer mentoring program. I will also keep in touch with other student organizations on behalf of Woodsworth College to help international students gain access to more resources on campus.
I will try my best to show my passion and commitment to building a WANderful university experience for international students at Woodsworth College.
Thank you for considering me!
Running For: Equity Commissioner
Haadiya Usman
Hello, Wolfpack! My name is Haadiya Usman (she/her), and I’m running for Equity Commissoner @ WCSA. Currently in my third year as an undergraduate student, I'm pursuing a double major in Human Biology and Genome Biology and a minor in Immunology – it's a mouthful, I know. During my academic journey, I had the privilege of interning at the International Labor Organization (ILO), where I worked on promoting decent work and advocating for social justice. This experience taught me that anyone can be a catalyst for positive change. I also volunteered as an engineering teaching assisstant at an ed-tech robotics startup in Pakistan. There, I had the opportunity to serve as a role model, particularly for young girls, and found fulfillment in doing so. I am committed to advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusivity not only within Woodsworth but also within all the communities I am a part of.
Running For: Equity Commissioner
Hannah Yin
Hey Wolfpack! My name is Hannah Yin, a 3rd year student in PCJ; CAS & Poli Sci. I am excited to run for Equity Commissioner!
I have been an active member of the WDW community for the past 3 years, having worked multiple jobs here and most recently as Orientation Coordinator of WDW Orientation 2023. My experiences with WCSA and feedback I’ve received regarding the equity of opportunities in the association are the core motivators of my candidacy. I plan on improving equity three ways: 1) compile a report of the WCSA constitution and bylaws to make it more straightforward and equitable 2) produce reports for the social & PR portfolio on equitable practices to integrate in their work 3) actively participate in conversations and monitor exec decisions.
I hope that you can put your trust in me to make a more fair, accessible, and equitable student association for us! Vote Hannah Yin for Equity!
Running For: First Year Students' Director
Nathan Eluvathingal
I'm thrilled to run for First-Year Director because I'm on a mission to transform Woodsworth into your ultimate home away from home. Why me? Well, I'm a fellow first-year student too, determined to create an unforgettable experience. Imagine social events fostering friendships, personalized academic support, and initiatives for deep belonging.That's my vision for your first year. I believe in inclusivity, where every voice is heard, talents celebrated, and every student valued.Together, we'll shape Woodsworth into a community embracing your unique abilities. At Woodsworth College, leadership grows, friendships flourish, and talents shine. Let's build on this tradition, making sure every first-year feels the warmth and inclusivity that defines Woodsworth. So,why wait? Join me in this exciting journey, and together, we'll make your first year extraordinary. Cheers to an amazing year ahead!
Running For: First Year Students' Director
Avanti Tandon
Hello! My name is Tara and I plan to run for the First-Year Director position on the WCSA. I am majoring in Computer Science and I’m a first year student. University is daunting, and I want to make the transition exciting and fun for everyone. Having been on the student council in High school, I have valuable experience in organization and I’m fully committed to addressing student concerns. A little bit about me: I love to sing and have my music out on every streaming platform (pls do check it out I need streams). You can find me with Woodsworth’s very own spirit singers every Monday! I love animals and if you show me pictures of your dog you will be my favourite person ever. If you enjoyed orientation as much as I did and are excited for more events in the future, I hope you’ll vote for me!
Running For: First Year Students' Director
Jacob Freedman
Hey! I’m Jacob, a Social Science student intending to major in Economics and International Relations. I’m running for WCSA First Year Director because I want to organize vibrant events, champion your ideas and enhance the Woodsworth community experience for first-year students. I’m an experienced leader, being an active member of various urban advocacy groups like Cycle Toronto and having led many organizations in high school, including DECA and Peer Tutoring, making me well suited for this position. As a commuter, I understand that it can be tough for those not in Woodsworth Rez to stay engaged with our community, and so a priority of mine will be to host events that can tie the whole community together. Most of all, I want to use this opportunity to create a more fun, transparent and engaging Woodsworth experience so first years can get involved.
Running For: Professional Development Director
Harmanpreet Pahwa
Hi Woodsworth! I’m Harmanpreet Pahwa, and I'm running to be your Professional Development Director for the 2023-2024 term! As the current Professional Development Director, I work in office to ensure that I'm able to provide you with opportunities for networking at our upcoming speed networking events with alumni guest speakers, resume building through events like Resume Tip Thursdays, and career guidance. As a student studying commerce, I will bring in all my experience and knowledge to ensure that the events I host on behalf of WCSA are tailored to your needs and will grow your professional experiences regardless of your background.
Running For: Academic Bridging Students' Director
Mary Jo O'Connor
My name is MaryJo! I am a graduate of the Academic Bridging Program and I’ve been a walking advertisement for the program ever since. Prior to coming to UofT, I was a professional dancer. I gained many transferable skills while dancing, including the ability to relate to those coming from different life paths. This summer, I had the privilege of being the Interim Academic Bridging Students’ Director. Now that Bridging students are on campus, I’d love to continue fostering the relationships I’ve made with the Bridging community and advocate for those on unconventional paths, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. I currently have a work study position as an Access and Transitions Program Assistant at Woodsworth. I help support and facilitate programming for Access students. My goal is to bridge these two roles together to support the wonderful and inspiring Bridging students!
Running For: Professional Development Director
Harmanpreet Pahwa
Hi Woodsworth! I’m Harmanpreet Pahwa, and I'm running to be your Professional Development Director for the 2023-2024 term! As the current Professional Development Director, I work in office to ensure that I'm able to provide you with opportunities for networking at our upcoming speed networking events with alumni guest speakers, resume building through events like Resume Tip Thursdays, and career guidance. As a student studying commerce, I will bring in all my experience and knowledge to ensure that the events I host on behalf of WCSA are tailored to your needs and will grow your professional experiences regardless of your background.
