Science Student Leader: Mishena

Meet Mishena (she/her) who volunteered as a First Year Orientation Leader, then returned as a Senior Orientation Leader. She is currently pursuing a BSc combined major in Physics, Statistics, and Life Sciences. She’s from the small town of Whitby, often mistaken for Toronto!

If you’re interested in getting involved in the science community like Mishena, check out the Orientation Leader role.

What did you learn as an Orientation Leader that you'll carry with you beyond your role?

The most impactful thing I learned was how to be a facilitator. My understanding of facilitation and my communication style grew so much. We had opportunities to practice in all sorts of settings and that has helped me grow in both my personal and professional life.

What was your favourite part about being an Orientation Leader?

My favourite part about being an Orientation Leader is getting to start the year with Imagine Day. You get all the motivation from the pep rally and excitement from first years, but being an Orientation Leader also means you get to experience it all with closer friends.

Did you feel that your leadership made an impact on new students? If so, how?

They certainly made an impact on me, and I hope they apply to be an Orientation Leader so they can learn from and enjoy the experience as I did.

What pleasantly surprised you about the Orientation Leader experience?

I was surprised by how quickly the groups got comfortable with one another. I remember being so intimidated as a first year that I was almost too scared to attend orientation. Regardless of whether the groups were first years, Orientation Leaders, or Seniors, the ice gets broken quickly, and you end up forming lots of connections.

Minor edits may have been made to responses for grammar or clarity.