ISE Student Advisory Committee

Daniel

Hello, my name is Daniel. I grew up in Latin America, and I am a fourth-year international student at the University of Toronto, double majoring in Statistics and Economics with a minor in Mathematics. 

During my time at UofT, I’ve been actively involved in both academic and extracurricular communities. I currently serve as President of the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS) at the St. George campus and as a Latin American Mentor Navigator, where I’ve had the opportunity to support fellow international, particularly Latinx students in building connections, accessing resources, and finding a sense of belonging. 

Beyond leadership, I have gained experience in data analysis and research through internships and fellowships in Canada, Germany, and Latin America. Outside of academics, I enjoy long-distance running and have completed marathons. 

The University of Toronto has given me the chance to grow both personally and professionally, and I look forward to continuing to give back as a member of the International Student Experience Student Advisory Committee (ISESAC).

Doyin

Hi everyone, I’m Doyin, a final-year student at U of T studying Cell and Molecular Biology, as well as Health and Disease. Over the past few years, I’ve been actively involved with the Centre for International Experience (CIE)  first as an International Student Experience Ambassador and then as a member of the International Student Experience Student Advisory Committee (ISESAC). Through these roles, I’ve had the chance to support fellow international students, share resources, and help address their questions and needs.

This year, I’m excited to return to ISESAC for my second year and continue working with CIE for a third year overall to help create meaningful impact in improving the international student experience at U of T.

Dzhafar

My name is pronounced as ‘jah-FAHR’, and I am a fourth-year international undergraduate student from Kazakhstan, studying Public Policy and Economics with a Focus in Data Analytics. As an aspiring data analysis-driven social policymaker, I believe that lasting positive change begins with a thorough understanding of local needs. Last academic year, mentoring first-year students at St. Michael’s College allowed me to serve with integrity on the UofT Student Union Senate and the university advisory committees engaged with international students’ experience, sustainability, the library system, and student mental health. I continue to offer my input in strategic discussions within the committees and, most recently, the University Affairs Board. 

I acknowledge that my voice may not be representative of the entire student body at UofT; nevertheless, I put effort into exploring and raising topics related to our student life that, when addressed with care, may benefit most of the groups at our university.

Farryzki

Hi everyone! My name Is Farryzki, I am a fourth-year international student from Indonesia pursuing a triple major in International Relations, Public Policy, and Urban Studies at the University of Toronto.

In my first year, I struggled with navigating campus resources and building a sense of belonging, which made me realize how crucial early support and inclusive spaces are for international students! Since then, I’ve led the Indonesian Student Association, co-chaired the Hart House Debates & Dialogues Committee, and represented U of T through a summer exchange in Japan. I’ve also worked as a policy researcher and interned in both Canada and Asia, focusing on diverse range of issues from human resources, urban planning to development. 

As a member of ISESAC, I hope to use these experiences to advocate for clearer communication, better outreach, and community-driven programming that empowers international students to thrive from the very beginning of their U of T journey.

Ferdinand (Reke)

I am a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering currently in my third year. As an international student from Nigeria, I faced unique challenges when I moved to Canada for my undergraduate studies. Adjusting to a new educational system and culture without a mentor was daunting, and I had to navigate many aspects of student life on my own. However, these challenges have shaped my resilience and adaptability, allowing me to grow both personally and academically.

I joined ISESAC because I am passionate about improving the experience of international students at U of T. Having faced many of the same challenges myself, I understand the importance of support networks and resources tailored to the unique needs of international students. My goal is to contribute to the development of programs and services that make the transition to life at U of T smoother and more enriching for all international students. Through my involvement with ISESAC, I hope to ensure that every international student feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Mihir

Hi everyone! My name is Mihir Agarwal. I am a fourth-year Civil Engineering student at the University of Toronto, while pursuing a minor in Engineering Business. 

As a fourth-generation civil engineering student with a strong interest in both technical and entrepreneurial fields, I am passionate about creating impact towards the society while valuing diversity and inclusion.

As an international student, I understand firsthand, the challenges and opportunities that come with studying abroad whether it’s about taking care of your finances, mental health or finding your feet in a new neighbourhood miles away from home. Therefore, through ISESAC, I hope to being able to contribute ideas that enhance services and create a welcoming space for international students.

Monika

I am a second year PhD student at the Institute of Medical Science at the University of Toronto.

Coming to Canada as an international student was exciting but also overwhelming. I had to figure out everything on my own, from getting my SIN number to learning how to navigate a new culture and system. Those first months were difficult, but they also made me stronger and more independent. Now, I truly love living here and being part of this community. That’s why I joined the International Student Experience Student Advisory Committee: I want to make the journey a little easier for newcomers, so they don’t feel as lost as I once did. For me, it’s about creating a welcoming space where students feel supported, connected, and at home.

Princessa

Hi! I’m Princessa, a second-year undergraduate student under the Fundamental Genetics and Its Applications Specialist program!

As an international student coming all the way from the other side of the globe, from a tropical archipelago called Indonesia, I have experienced many challenges and difficulties to fit in with the rest of my peers. The difference in culture, and even weather, was a big change to me. 

I am honoured to be a part of the ISE Student Advisory Committee. I hope to improve resources and programs provided by the University of Toronto for international students and create a comfortable environment that everyone can call ‘home away from home’.

Shima

I am a Master of Education student at OISE, specializing in the Language and Literacies program, and I will complete my degree in December 2025. My journey as an international student has been both exciting and full of learning experiences. Before moving to Canada, I co-founded an ESL training center with my twin sister and supported international students at Iran University of Medical Sciences, which gave me a strong passion for helping learners adjust and succeed.

At the University of Toronto, I have had the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, share experiences through book clubs and cultural events, and participate in mentorship and orientation activities. These experiences have helped me feel supported and included in the U of T community.

Through CIE’s programs and services, I have learned more about intercultural exchange, student leadership, and the importance of fostering community among international students. By joining ISESAC, I hope to represent graduate students like myself who are eager to make connections, share their perspectives, and help shape initiatives that foster belonging, engagement, and success for all international students.

Shina

I’m a second-year master’s student in Civil Engineering, now in my second year as an international student at the University of Toronto.

Having experienced the challenges of adjusting to a new country and academic system, I joined the International Student Experience Student Advisory Committee to help address the very gaps I and many of my friends faced. My goal is to ensure that international students feel seen, supported, and fully able to access everything U of T has to offer. Too often, we get so focused on fitting in that we forget how much we truly belong here. Through this committee, I hope to help change that narrative.

In addition to this role, I serve on the Board of Directors of the UTGSU, where I advocate for student voices. I’m passionate about bridging both spaces to create a stronger, more inclusive experience for all international students.

Yansong (Harry)

Hi everyone! My name is Harry Guan. This is my second appointment as a member of the committee. I am a second-year MEd student in the Developmental Psychology and Education program at OISE. As an international student from China, I finished my undergraduate study at U of T, majoring in psychology and sociology.

Besides being a member of the committee, I am currently the Secretary of Treasure of OISE International Students’ Association (ISA). Previously in my Undergraduate, I found that U of T has a diverse and conclusive environment, which international students play important roles to make contributions to the community. But when international students arrive in a new country for the first time, there are always unfamiliarity and concerns. In this case, joining ISESAC provides more opportunities for me to enhance both studying and living experiences for international students to study at U of T, as well as discussing how to let new coming international students integrate into the new lifestyle faster. I am looking forward to work together with ISESAC team in 2025-2026 academic year!