Every year, over 50 alumni volunteer their time to support the career learning of students and recent graduates by participating in career exploration events and programs. We recognize and celebrate these alumni's loyalty and dedication to giving back through the Career Centre Hall of Fame. We invite you to meet some of U of T's many successful alumni who've been in your shoes, read their advice, and get inspired by their career journey.
Are you a current alumnus who would like to get involved with the Career Centre? Reach out to Jason John at jas.john@utoronto.ca or 416-706-0847.
Adiba
Ghauri
U of T Degree: HBA Philosophy (2021)
Current Title: Digital Marketer
Current Industry: Government
Current Organization: Peel Regional Police
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"With every new opportunity and adventure you're going to learn new things about yourself. You might think you have your future figured out, but it’s okay to change your mind. Do the things that you love, and be adaptable to change. The only way you’re going to grow is if you take that risk."
Find me on Linkedin
Allison
Gomes
U of T Degree: HBSc Biology; Psychology; Biomedical Communications (2017)
Current Title: Public Health Inspector
Current Industry: Government
Current Organization: Region of Peel
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Keep jumping to every opportunity that comes your way, and don't be afraid to do something new that doesn't align with your current goals. It may open a whole other world to you."
Find me on Linkedin
Anna
Cumaraswamy
U of T Degree: PhD Chemistry; Medicinal Chemistry; Drug Development Oncology (2015); MSc Organic Chemistry (2010); HBSc Biological Chemistry (2009)
Current Title: Associate Director, Oncology
Current Industry: Biotechnology
Current Organization: Gilead Sciences
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Immerse yourself in the learning experience and not worry so much about the next step. Ultimately, it's not about a dream job, it's pursuing experiences to achieve a dream career."
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Asya
Twahir
U of T Degree: HBA Political Science (2020)
Current Title: Program Coordinator
Current Industry: Nonprofit
Current Organization: Jack.org
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Don't be afraid to try new things. Having a clear idea of what you want is great but sometimes being open to different experiences can reveal paths and passions that you didn't even realize you had. You’ll meet new people, gain new perspectives and be all the better for it."
Find me on Linkedin
Chelsea
Dalton
U of T Degree: BSc Environmental Science (2007)
Current Title: Project Manager, Sustainability Office
Current Industry: Higher Education
Current Organization: University of Toronto
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Be less cautious. Don't be afraid to take chances and try something new. But remember that persistence and patience can still pay off in the long run!"
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Christopher
Thompson
U of T Degree: BA Political Science; Criminology (2012)
Current Title: Community Investment and Black Community Advisory Council Leader
Current Industry: Nonprofit
Current Organization: United Way Greater Toronto
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Be open to trying and learning new things even if it is outside of your comfort zone. You never know where things will take you, and it's the best time to try new things. Network just to meet new people, the opportunities will come. Enjoy the journey, it is not a straight line."
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Cody
McMullin
U of T Degree: HBSc GIS; Geography; Environmental Science (2012)
Current Title: Manager, Asset Optimization & Spatial Data
Current Industry: Utilities
Current Organization: Oakville Hydro
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Success comes from the amount of effort you put into it. Never stop learning, building relationships, and embracing opportunities as they happen. The one constant in life is change and the days will go by quickly, so be sure to pause and appreciate the moments in life."
Find me on Linkedin
Hannah
Mayor
U of T Degree: HBA Communication, Culture, Information & Technology (2021)
Current Title: Communications Coordinator
Current Industry: Government
Current Organization: Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. So shoot your shot! Step into your full potential and ditch your comfort zone."
Find me on Linkedin
Hassaan
Mustafa
U of T Degree: BSc Computer Science (2020)
Current Title: Software System Designer 2
Current Industry: Semiconductors
Current Organization: AMD
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Learn to be consistent with whatever you decide to do. It won't happen the first time, but you will get there sooner than later!"
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Jayaditya
Kedia
U of T Degree: BA Digital Enterprise Management (2021)
Current Title: Operations Associate
Current Industry: Computer Software
Current Organization: Float
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Learn to hear feedback, consider it and implement what works. Every moment is an opportunity to learn from the people in your network. Do not be discouraged by poor feedback or job rejection and be open to change as it will open unexplored opportunities for you. Take your time! You got this!"
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Jennifer
Javier
U of T Degree: BSc Biology for Health Sciences; Psychology (2013)
Current Title: Occupational Health & Safety
Current Industry: Internet
Current Organization: Amazon
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Don't be so self-critical - just enjoy the journey. Also, to be open-minded in that, if at first, you think you may not be interested, give it a chance, as you never know! Lastly, the better word for "networking" is building relationships - this enables you to accomplish more."
Find me on Linkedin
Karen Kwan
Anderson
U of T Degree: BA Sociology; Industrial Relations; Professional Writing (1994)
Current Title: Sole Practitioner
Current Industry: Citizenship and Immigration Law
Current Organization: Karen Kwan Anderson, Barrister & Solicitor
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Never stop learning about others because knowledge is the foundation of networking; always remember that networking does not stop when you get the dream job - networking is lifelong."
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Menna
Elnaka
U of T Degree: HBA Political Science; Professional Writing and Communication (2017)
Current Title: Journalist
Current Industry: Broadcast Media
Current Organization: CBC/Radio-Canada
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"This is your moment. If you have one goal, you do all you can from right this moment to get there. Join clubs, do extracurriculars, network and do an internship. If you’re yet to figure out what your goal is, university is a perfect place and time for you to start. Chase after many different things, keep trying and most importantly, explore and don’t be scared to ask questions. If anything, now is not the time to remain in your comfort zone! Believe in yourself and you’ll get there."
Find me on Linkedin
Mirabelle
Eze
U of T Degree: BA Communication and Media Studies (2017)
Current Title: Copywriter
Current Industry: Marketing and Advertising
Current Organization: FCB Canada
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"It's possible to make a living doing what you love."
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Murtaza
Jalali
U of T Degree: BA Political Science (2015)
Current Title: Social Policy Officer
Current Industry: Government
Current Organization: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Explore the job marketplace! Don't be afraid to reach out to professionals you look up to to ask about their role and if they find fulfillment in their work. Seek their advice on charting a career path for yourself."
Find me on Linkedin
Nives
Hajdin
U of T Degree: HBA Art History; English Literature (2012)
Current Title: Assistant Editor, Publications & Exhibitions
Current Industry: Museums and Institutions
Current Organization: Art Gallery of Ontario
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Know your worth! Don’t settle for low-paying internships or free labour (if not for course credit) just because someone has convinced you that you’re “still young and it’s a great experience”. It will help you negotiate better salaries for yourself going forward."
Find me on Linkedin
Osama
Saeed
U of T Degree: BCom Accounting (2020)
Current Title: CPA Articling Accountant, PubCo.
Current Industry: Accounting
Current Organization: MNP
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Everyone has their own pace. Don’t be afraid if things aren’t working out your way, just take a step forward no matter how small. Each step counts and is a progression towards something great! Be you, be happy, keep striving and help others along the way!"
Find me on Linkedin
Priya
Supaul
U of T Degree: HBA Social Sciences (2013)
Current Title: Social Change Coordinator
Current Industry: Mental Health Care
Current Organization: Hope 24/7
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Slow down and enjoy the ride. Sometimes we forget that the rest of our life is full of work, adventures, opportunities and self exploration. Enjoy and make most of the time you have while being in a post-secondary environment!"
Find me on Linkedin
Reese
McMillan
U of T Degree: Msc Ecology; Evolutionary Biology (2009); HBSc Ecology (2007)
Current Title: Head of Risk Assessment
Current Industry: Civil Engineering
Current Organization: DS Consultants Ltd.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"People are willing to help you much more than you think. Connect on Linked In with people who are where you want to be in 10 years to ask questions. Utilize mentors, attend networking events, reach out to companies that interest you. You can learn a lot through these connections and you never know when one may be beneficial down the road."
Find me on Linkedin
Sara
Iannuzzi
U of T Degree: HBA Teaching and Learning (2013)
Current Title: Instructional Designer / Developer
Current Industry: Computer Software
Current Organization: PointClickCare
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Don't worry too much about planning your career path. Follow the twists and turns. Explore ignited curiosities. Say yes to exciting opportunities. Follow your passions and you may find yourself walking a path that you never expected. Who knows? You may even be the one paving the way."
Find me on Linkedin
Sarah
Edwards
U of T Degree: PhD Epidemiology (2017); MHSc Epidemiology, Community Health (2009); HBSc Chemistry, Biology (2003)
Current Title: Staff Scientist
Current Industry: Research
Current Organization: ICES
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Always ask the question, whether that's for a raise, advice from a mentor or a new opportunity. It will feel uncomfortable at first. You'll get used to managing that discomfort. Also, your career trajectory may not be linear but circular or spiral because priorities shift."
Find me on Linkedin
Shefaly
Gunjal
U of T Degree: MSc Sustainability Management (2021); BA Environmental Management (2019)
Current Title: Manager - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Current Industry: Public Relations and Communications
Current Organization: Citizen Relations
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Don't be afraid to do things that scare you or make you nervous! Instead, focus on taking small steps towards facing those fears, especially when it comes to key skills like public speaking or networking. Working on these things slowly will help you build confidence and build strong relationships with mentors!"
Find me on Linkedin
Vanessa
Parise
U of T Degree: HBSc Psychology (2021)
Current Title: Lead Clinical Research Coordinator
Current Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Current Organization: Cliantha Research Limited
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"The advice that I would give to my younger self is to get involved within your community and don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone! I spent my early undergraduate years just going to class when there were so many volunteer and extra curricular opportunities available."
Find me on Linkedin
Zahra
Syed
U of T Degree: HBSc Molecular Biology; Chemistry (2019)
Current Title: Project Manager, Project Management Office
Current Industry: Hospital & Health Care
Current Organization: The Hospital for Sick Children
What advice would you give to your younger self?
"Do not fear failure and take risks. Oftentimes, this is what holds us back from pursuing our dreams. What you need to do at such times is to analyze the worst outcome, and ask yourself 'what is the worst that could happen?'. You might realize that it's not so bad after all. If you really want something, go for it without fear and take the risk. It will most likely push you forward and help you achieve goals you did not even know existed."
Find me on Linkedin