ASSU is looking for student leaders, in the Arts and Science Undergraduate community for “ASSU Inspires: Student Speaker Series.” The purpose of the speaker series is to take student leaders to science clubs (for kids – Grade 2 to 8 ) and have them participate in science club activities alongside the registered kids from social housing neighborhoods.

Students will be selected based on their ability to demonstrate commitment to improving community life and passion for advancement in the academic / intellectual discourse.

Selected individuals will deliver a 10-15 minutes long interactive speech and presentation on the value and importance of post-secondary education, explaining its relevance for these kids’ futures, as well as advocating the need for these kids leadership in their neighborhoods. Selected student leaders will be featured on the ASSU website, receive an honorarium, and a letter of reference.

Please submit curriculum vitae, along with a 300 words statement explaining why you should be selected, no later than February 6, 2009 to students.assu@utoronto.com

Please note, this program is a joint collaboration between `Visions of Science – Network for Learning` (VOSNL) and the Arts and Science Students` Union (ASSU.)

2008-09′ Selected Speakers

Carina Chan

Carina Chan is a third-year student majoring in Criminology and Sociology who is involved in various student groups on campus. She is passionate about youth advocacy and justice, and hopes that she can eventually help empower other young adults to fight for social change.

Tommy Tam

Tommy Tam is currently enrolled in the third year of Life Sciences specializing in human health and diseases. The complexity of the human body amazes Tommy, and is the driving force for a career in research. Aside from his academic aspirations, he is often seen volunteering in order to contribute back to his community. Community involvements open Tommy’s eyes to observe the world in another perspective. It reminds him to do his best, not only for himself, but for those who are under-privileged by making a difference in their lives. Tommy strongly believes that the opportunity given by VoSNL to speak about education and leadership will inspire them to stay in school and be leaders in their own peer group, family and local communities.

Wajid Kagzi

Wajid Kagzi is a third-year student in the Physiology and Human Biology major programs. He is very passionate about science and enjoys sharing his knowledge with other students. This passion has led him to volunteer his time extensively throughout his university years. Wajid has mentored and tutored inner city high school students and university students through many programs such as The Saturday Program and Project Universal Minds from ASSU. After completing his fourth year, he hopes to continue his current research in diabetes at Princess Margaret Hospital. He also wishes to continue mentoring students to get them excited about the future of science and the importance of post-secondary education.

Eva Ouyang

Eva Ouyang is a second year Life Sciences student in a specialist and major program. Eva is interested in promoting education and well-being among youth and consequently is involved in activities such as tutoring high school students for Pathways to Education and taking part in the High School Partnership Program’s Global Health Conference. She hopes these experiences will help her better understand the circumstances many children face in her effort to become a pediatrician.

Annette Gagliano

Annette Gagliano is currently enrolled in a life science program, and is completing her first year of undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.  Annette enjoys communicating in the form of writing and public speaking.  She likes to educate and help those around her.  Annette encourages others to get involved in their community and to make a positive difference in the world.  In her spare time, she plays the piano, writes stories, and goes hiking.  Annette lives in Mississauga with her twin sister, younger sister and parents.

Sarah Gagliano

Sarah Gagliano is completing her first year of undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto.  She is currently enrolled in a life science program.  She is an enthusiastic individual with a passion for learning and teaching.  In addition, Sarah is an avid piano player who has performed in numerous recitals and competitions.  She also enjoys writing and public speaking.  She uses these skills to become an active participant in her community.  Sarah lives in Mississauga, Ontario with her parents, twin sister and younger sister.

Sabrina Pietrobon

Sabrina Pietrobon is a first year student in the life sciences program.  With an interest in pursuring a career in medicine, she is actively involved in research at the University of Toronto.  This has allowed her to appreciate the great amount of time and effort that is required to understand the many mysteries of the world and to develop solutions to its many challenges.  With a strong passion for improving the lives of others, she has participated in various extracurricular and volunteer activities throughout her secondary school education and she continues to do so.  She hopes that in her future career she will be able to contribute towards building better world for everyone to live in.

David Rizzuti

David Rizzuti is a fourth-year student completing a double-major in Human Biology and Psychology. He is interested in human health and behavior, as well as medicine. He plans to apply to medical school after he graduates. David found the Visions of Science volunteer program to be a very rewarding experience where he gained valuable experience in public speaking and motivation. He hopes that he helped to inspire some individuals to pursue further science education.

Jennifer Zuccaro

Jennifer Zuccaro is a second-year life science student currently enrolled in Human Biology and Italian Studies. Jennifer has been interested in science from a young age and continues to pursue her studies at the University of Toronto.  After having been diagnosed with cancer as a child, Jennifer has decided to use her experience to inspire others. Her experience with cancer has intensified her determination to succeed and has enabled her to reach out to her community. Ultimately, Jennifer hopes that the science program in which she is enrolled will provide her with the knowledge and experience she needs to enter medical school.

Jason Merai

Jason Merai is a fourth year student with a double major in Political Science and History.  As a member of Victoria College, Jason has served on Student council, various clubs and a frosh leader.  Recently, Jason is a Residence Don.    With his previous work for the Burnhamthorpe Community Centre, Jason followed his passion with working with youths to join ASSU Inspires and VOSNL.  When he is not keeping busy with school, Jason likes to listen to music, play basketball and dance his days away.  Upon graduation, Jason hopes to continue to dedicate his time to community involvement.

Elisa Simpson

Elisa Simpson is a fourth year student at the University of Toronto who will graduate in June 2009 with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree. She will continue to work this summer and for the next two years at St. Michael’s Hospital where she will complete a Master of Science degree. Elisa has volunteered in several programs, especially focusing on programs involving children, because she finds it to be a rewarding experience. She hopes to volunteer with Visions of Science again next year because the excitement the children have towards science will motivate her while working on her graduate thesis.