“My life would’ve been totally different if it weren’t for the support of the Grebel community,” said Tom Iagovet, a third-year student double majoring in Computer Science and Combinatorics and Optimization. Tom has been connected to Grebel since his first year in university. He has made many friends at Grebel, actively involved himself in many extracurricular opportunities, and he deeply connected with Grebel’s values and traditions — ultimately transforming his student experience.

Tom Iagovet

University is a pivotal moment in a student’s life. It is where students can discover new ideas and perspectives, make lifelong friends, and reflect on who they are as a person. “I’m very thankful for the way that Grebel has impacted me, my perspectives, and my identity, and challenged me as a person. I learned a lot about myself and found intrinsic motivation to do more for the people around me. That is truly invaluable,” said Tom. “Being part of the Grebel community helped shape my perspectives as a student, but also as an individual,” said Tom.

Even throughout his co-op work term, Tom stayed connected to Grebel by living in residence. For the winter 2023 term, Tom was an Instructional Support Assistant at the David Cheriton School of Computer Science. “Teaching is one of the most rewarding things. I especially love to share with others the excitement, usefulness, and beauty of algorithms. They are great tools to make a positive difference in the lives of those around us,” shared Tom.

Tom is the epitome of a student who has embraced the Grebel community in every way. He has been part of Grebel’s tech team, captained several intramural sports teams, organized social and athletic events, attended countless events, and even discovered a love for music. “I also loved being a Grebel tour guide so I could share my love for its community and traditions. These things are part of my identity and shape the way I see the world, and that is immeasurable,” said Tom. “When giving tours, I hope my experiences resonate with future Waterloo students and their families.”

Tom has received several awards and scholarships for his outstanding contribution to the community, including the David Reiger Student Award. “Receiving scholarship awards has been the key factor that allowed me to remain so close to the Grebel community since I started university,” said Tom. “Being recognized for engagement in Grebel's community and academic achievement means a lot to me on a personal level. In many ways, it motivates me to stay diligent and work hard in my classes, and to do more for the people around me.”

“Grebel’s support has been absolutely invaluable to me, and I know that in the long-term, once I graduate and start my career, I will be doing everything to support to the Grebel community in the same ways it is supporting me now.”

By Farah Jurdi