How it all started?

I started working for the program in winter 2023 when we were just a team of four mentors sharing an office space. As a new immigrant to Canada, I found myself deep in winter blues trying to find ways on how to be a good student while also maintaining some semblance of a social life. Working for charge ahead helped me just do that! Not only I found an amazing cohort of peer mentors who excitingly shared strategies on how to prep for my first winter, I also found avenues to make connections with the student population at UM.

Where have we come so far?

As the program grew from a pilot to an independent student resource, so did our dedication to work with diverse student populations. I am glad to have had the opportunity to work on some amazing programming material like a personalized calendar (I assure you it’s Pinterest approved) to developing workshops and conducting one-on-one sessions to understand student needs. In my years of working with students I can now say we are there to support students no matter where they are in their journeys.

Why did I become a peer mentor?

My story of becoming a mentor is imbedded in my personal experience of being a mentee. I have been a student for the most part of my life and the one thing that has always helped me get to places is my mentors. I still remember my peer mentor from my undergrad days helped me learn everything about student life- from teaching me how to create a timetable to navigating public transport they were there through it all. Since that mentorship program, I have always wanted to help people navigate their journeys and find some amazing people like I did. Nothing makes it easier than a supportive mentor!

My favourite memory as a mentor?

This was in my early days at the program when I was still learning about UM policies and procedures. I recall meeting a student who wanted to transit to their faculty of choice but weren’t sure if they have met all the criteria. We sat down, looked at all pre-requisites and figured out their eligibility. I walked them to their academic advising office and was rooting for them while they completed the process. Being a part of one the happiest academic moments of their life made me realise true joy and also the value of helping each other as a community.

As we enter the new academic year, I wish all the very best to all incoming and returning UM students. Remember you are not alone, Bisons always are part of a herd. Whenever you need us, we are there support to you, rooting for you from the stands!

If you are interested in becoming a peer mentor, Charge Ahead is hiring this fall term. Check out our job posting on UM Connect for more details. You can search “78871 – Charge Ahead Peer Mentor (Fall)” to find the posting quickly in UM Connect.