Help Young Minds

Andrea is a second-year International graduate student at the University of Alberta, working to get her Master's degree in Nutrition and Metabolism. She spends her free time trying out new cafes (favorite drink: iced vanilla oat milk latte!), going out for walks, watching horror movies and an embarrassing amount of Youtube videos. She decided to volunteer at HYM because "as an International student, and just as a person, I have lived through so many amazing, difficult, good and bad experiences that have taught me so much, but in the moment, I felt lost and unguided, so I would like to help any young person navigating through their own path and life experiences, just so they know that they are never alone and there's always an answer".

Paige is a third year University of Alberta student studying Criminology with hopes of pursuing a law degree upon graduation. She loves to write, volunteering as a writer for the student newspaper The Gateway as well as writing creatively in her free time. When she's not in school, Paige can be found taking tap dance classes as well as teaching dance to young kids at her dance studio job. Paige volunteers for Help Young Minds because "I love the idea of using my passion for writing to reach others and get fun conversations started. There's nothing more exciting to me than exploring unique topics with research and conversation. There's always something new to learn and writing is all about communicating passions and ideas!'

Tina is currently in fourth year of Honors Psychology. Her hobbies include playing the violin, crocheting, biking, volunteering, and making new friends. Tina decided to volunteer with this organization as "I grew up in a small town in Vietnam, and I remembered seeing kids the same age as me who was unable to go to school because their families can't afford it. That moment stuck in my mind until now, and every day when I go to school, I told myself to work hard so that one day I can create opportunities for the younger generation to go to school. I am inspired to make a difference in students struggling with school problems and trying to find their ways out. And that is why I want to volunteer for HYM."

Holly is the fourth and final year of the Pharmacology program at the University of Alberta! When Holly is not studying, they are reading, trying out new coffee shops, on a bike ride, or attempting virtual workouts. Holly decided to join Help Young Minds "because I wanted to share my transition to university story and hopefully offer some advice and guidance for young people considering post-secondary education."

Jasmine is currently completing a Physiology Honours degree in the third year. Jasmine enjoys reading, painting and spending time outdoors. Jasmine decided to volunteer with Help Young Minds because "I enjoy working with kids. Also, there are many barriers to accessing help and extra resources outside of class, and I'm sure the new learning changes are only making things more difficult, so I wanted to help out and provide students with the help they might need during this stressful time."

Jerry's currently doing a Masters in Public Health. Jerry's hobbies include playing scrabble, soccer, nature/wildlife photography, mentoring and meeting people. Jerry joined Help Young Minds as "social media has been very helpful in allowing teens to communicate with one another and build networks, which could provide valuable support, especially for those who experience exclusion or have disabilities or chronic illnesses. However, social media use can also negatively affect teens, distract them, disrupt their sleep, expose them to bullying, rumour spreading, unrealistic views of other people's lives and peer pressure, which poses a big challenge these days. My aim is to help young people understand the factors contributing to their mental and social wellbeing, how to use the internet to promote their wellbeing and how to engage other individuals in meaningful discussions."

Kassidy is in Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Food Science, Food Science & Technology Specialization in the Third Year. Kassidy's hobbies include gardening & houseplant collecting, fermenting foods (kombucha, sourdough, sauerkraut), cooking & baking, sewing & crafts. Kassidy decided to volunteer with Help Young Minds because "I know what it's like to be new to university - there's a lot of pressure to choose your life's trajectory when you're not even sure what you're having for dinner, let alone where you see yourself in five years! I have had several years of experience as a post-secondary student. My job at a grocery store, combined with my Nutrition & Food Science major, has given me plenty of experience and knowledge that I'm excited to share."

Elyssa is in the second year of a BSc program with a major in psychology. In Elyssa's free time, they love to play the piano, knit and bake – especially cookies and cupcakes. Elyssa chose to volunteer with Help Young Minds as a content creator "because being in school is something almost every young person has in common. Whether you're in your undergrad or starting in high school, we all share similar experiences as students. Volunteering with Help Young Minds gives me the opportunity to connect with a wide range of students – from those who are just starting to discover their academic potential, to those who want to learn more about the academic experiences of someone just like them."

Anurika's current degree major is Business Management with a minor in Sociology. Anurika's hobbies include jogging, swimming and reading. Anurika decided to volunteer with Help Young Minds as "writing is something I'm passionate about, and this opportunity was, therefore, not one to miss. I love the privilege this gives me to show my creativity."