Our Renison Student Experience & Housing team are dedicated in ensuring you have a vibrant student experience!
We are here to support you help you thrive during your studies and have access to the supports and resources available to ensure your personal, academic, and career success. One of the ways we do this is by offering one-on-one meet-ups with students.
These meetings are usually 30 minutes in length, but can be customized for a shorter or longer time if needed.
During a one-on-one meet-up, we can chat about anything related to your personal and academic success. Some of the most common subjects that students talk about during a meet-up include:
- Study strategies, including textbook skim/scanning, notes reviews, test taking tips and dealing with test anxiety
- Time management help and helping you organize all of your assignments, tests, study time—and find time to attend events also!
- Questions about life at Waterloo and being a successful student
- Support with adjusting to life in Canada and the city of Waterloo
- Thriving while living in a student residence, and tips for how to make the most of your residence experience
- Conversations about mental health wellness and how to build healthy strategies into your day-to-day schedule.
- English practice! Just meet with us and practice your conversational English. We can talk about anything you like!
Want a one-on-one meet-up?
To book a one-on-one meet-up, find the person on this page you would like to meet with. Click the "Register for a Meet-up" button under their name. This will take you to a website called Calendly where you can book a meeting time that works best for your schedule. A meeting reminder email will be sent to you that will confirm your meeting date, time, and location. If you booked a virtual meeting, the email will include a Zoom link.
Renison Residence Dons
Do you live in Renison Residence? Connect with any member of our Don team for support!
Meet with Thalia Criollo Guerrero
Thalia Criollo Guerrero is a senior Honours Music student in the Faculty of Arts at Waterloo. As an international student from Ecuador, Thalia understands how it feels adjusting to a new culture and also feelings of homesickness.
You can connect with Thalia to chat about many things including:
- The many resources that Waterloo has to help you succeed academically, professionally, individually, and socially.
- Adjusting to a new culture and living in residence.
- Making friends and getting used to study life at Waterloo.
Meet with Chloé Brideau
Chloé Brideau is in her second year of Social Development Studies at Waterloo. Chloé loves all things music and can be found in the St. Bede's Chapel in her free time rocking out on the piano. Chloé's hometown is Sudbury, Ontario, where she volunteered with a youth help line surrounding mental health wellness.
Chloé is a real vibe! Some things you can connect with Chloé about include:
- Building positive mental health wellness strategies into your everyday student routine.
- Your favourite bands and what music recommendations you have.
- Tips for thriving (and not just surviving!) as a student, and how to build effective student habits.
Meet with Cherie Ng
Cherie Ng is a senior Social Development Studies student who loves helping people! Cherie is a helpful friend who can help with building effective study strategies, including time management skills, to succeed in university.
Sign up for a meet-up with Cherie to talk about:
- Ways to build your time management and organization skills for university life
- How to make new friends and get involved in student life.
- How to overcome homesickness and culture shock to university life.
Meet with Greg Petoukhov
Greg Petoukhov is studying Honours Math with plans to major in mathematical finance at Waterloo. When Greg is not studying the day away in the Library, he can often be found hanging out in the Renison Cafeteria.
Connect with Greg to learn more about:
- Thriving as a student studying in the STEM field at Waterloo.
- Taking a co-op program and what it's like to have co-op work terms.
- How to get to know other people in the Renison community.
Meet with Amanda Roth
Amanda Roth is a senior Social Development Studies student who loves getting to know new people. Amanda's bubbly and warm personality can help you with questions about self-care and mental health wellness, how to take care of yourself while in university, and getting involved in your campus community.
Popular things you can chat with Amanda about include:
- Strategies to build your own mental health wellness and implement self-care strategies.
- How to make the most of life in Kitchener-Waterloo, Amanda's hometown
- Getting involved in your campus community at UWaterloo.
Meet with Tejas Soni
Tejas Soni is a senior Residence Don who is studying Mechanical Engineering at Waterloo. As an Engineer, Tejas has had many experiences with co-ops and what it's like to navigate the complicated process in WaterlooWorks. Tejas has also lived in Residence for several years now and can provide some great tips for thriving in the residence community.
Connect with Tejas to chat about:
- His amazing motorbike that he has in storage right now at Renison.
- Support with the co-op process and applying to STEM jobs in the field.
- Feedback for enhancing food in the Renison Cafeteria and maximizing the most of the My Pantry service.
Meet with Cheongho (Danny) Kim
Danny Kim is a senior Honours Arts and Business co-op student whose hometown is Jeonju, South Korea. As an international student, Danny has an eagerness to get to know students from all cultures and helping to make them feel comfortable in their new home at Renison.
Danny is always happy to chat with students about:
- Life in a co-op program and what he did for his past two co-op terms
- Tips for adjusting to Canadian life and surviving the cold Canadian winters
- Finding some of the best places in Waterloo for different foods
Meet with Selena Zheng
Selena Zheng is a Biomedical Science student from Calgary, Alberta. Selena loves getting involved in her campus community and being part of many fun things at Waterloo, including Waterloo Orientation. Having also served as an iEFAS Peer Leader for the English Language Institute, Selena also has a solid understanding about life as an international student and loves to be able to support students in practicing their English.
Some things you can connect with Selena about include:
- Being a listening ear for any challenges or difficulties you're experiencing as a student.
- Adapting to life in Waterloo and navigating the resources and supports on campus.
- What it's like studying in the Faculty of Science and how busy a Science student schedule can be.
Meet with Andrew Sinicropi
Andrew Sinicropi (he/they) is studying his final term in the Social Development Studies program before he graduates (yay!). As a Senior Don, Andrew has supported many students in navigating the university environment, and connecting others to the supports and resources available on campus.
Some of the things you can connect with Andrew about is:
- Life studying in the Social Development Studies program while taking the co-op route and how that has been.
- Supports and resources for 2SLGBTQ+ students at Waterloo.
- His tiny shrine collection in his room of different, funky tchotchkes.
Meet with Clarissa Michaels
Clarissa Michaels (she/they) is a second-year student double-majoring in Social Development Studies and Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies. When Clarissa is not spending her free time writing poetry, she is actively getting involved in her Renison community. Last year, Clarissa served as one of the Co-presidents for Renisix Residence Student Council where she helped to serve as a student rep on the Board of Governors.
Touch base with Clarissa to chat more about:
- Ways to build your leadership skills in the Renison community.
- The best ways to make friendships within the Renison community.
- Topics related to equity, diversity, and inclusion in Canada.
English Language Institute (ELI) Peer Leaders
Are you studying in an English language program such as BASE/iBASE, EFAS/iEFAS, or GEAR? Meet one-on-one with an ELI Peer Leader!
Meet with Wallis Zeng
Wallis Zeng is a fourth-year student in the Arts and Business program at University of Waterloo. As an international student herself, she understands how stressful it can be for students to adapt to a new cultural environment to study and live. Wallis has learned many valuable lessons and accumulated many tips that she looks forward to sharing with other students to help them maximize their experience in Canada!
- Helpful strategies to improve your conversational and professional language skills.
- Getting involved at the University of Waterloo and volunteering.
- Life in Canada and supports that Renison University College can provide.
- Tips to adjust to the university environment and how to maintain a busy workload as a Waterloo student
Meet with Zhiying (May) Zhang
Zhiying (May) Zhang is an Accounting & Financial Management (AFM) student at the University of Waterloo. May is a proud graduate of Renison's Bridge to Academic Success in English (BASE) program and has been a very active at the University of Waterloo and Renison since she began her studies. May has been a BASE Rep volunteer, GEAR Peer Helper, Moose Tracks Connection Desk Assistant, and International Orientation Leader.
May is great to chat with about many topics, including:
- Adjusting to life in Canada as an international student
- Learning about ways to get involved or find out about part-time jobs on campus
- Staying organized and managing your time as a Waterloo student
- Strategies for improving your communication skills
Meet with Karina Fu
Karina is an Economics program student and a proud graduate of the BASE program! As an international student from Panama, Karina is here to support you as you adjust to life as a university student. Karina is also knowledgeable about life on campus, having participated in many campus events -- she even won the BASE Student Engagement Award when she was a BASE student!
Some things you can discuss with Karina include:
- Helpful strategies to improve your conversational and professional language skills.
- Getting involved at the University of Waterloo and volunteering.
- Life in Canada and supports that Renison University College can provide.
- Tips to adjust to the university environment and how to maintain a busy workload as a Waterloo student
Meet with Tisa Mushani
Tisa Mushani is a senior student studying in Social Development Studies at Renison and the University of Waterloo. Tisa has been very involved in her Renison community since she joined, working in the Lusi Wong Library as a Library Assistant and as the President for Renison Academic Student Council (RASC).
Popular things that students chat with Tisa about include:
- Life studying at Waterloo and being a Faculty of Arts student.
- What it's like managing jobs while studying.
- Tips for navigating homesickness and culture shock.
Student Experience Peer Leaders
Are you a University of Waterloo student taking a course or program at Renison? Connect with one of our Student Experience Peer Leaders!
Meet with Adam Janssen
Adam is a second-year student in the Honours Science and Business program at University of Waterloo. Through living in residence at Renison, he has had the opportunity to meet and develop friendships with many Canadian and international students and appreciates the sharing and learning that happens in these relationships.
Adam is happy to help anybody with anything! Some popular topics you can ask Adam about include:
- Suggestions for living in Residence and having a roommate
- Getting involved at the University of Waterloo and volunteering.
- Life in Canada and supports that Renison University College can provide.
- Tips to adjust to the university environment and how to maintain a busy workload as a Waterloo student.
Meet with Jared Cubilla
Jared is an English - Rhetoric, Media, and Professional Communication student in the Faculty of Arts. Jared has been an active member in his campus community, including as a member of the UW Quizbowl club. Jared has also help many co-op jobs during his program, including one as a Programs Assistant with our Renison English Language Institute. Jared is excited to chat with all students about:
- Getting used to life in first year as a university student
- Navigating applying for co-op jobs while also studying at Waterloo
- How to make the most of your student experience by getting involved with clubs
Residence Experience Peer Leaders
The Residence Experience Peer Leaders are specifically here to support students living in Renison Residence, including in our Living-Learning Communities!
Meet with Daneka Miller
Daneka is a 3A Social Development Studies student who is on the University of Waterloo Women’s Golf team and will be serving as the Residence Experience Peer Leader focusing on the WALC (Warrior Academic Leadership Community) Living-Learning Community. This past term she won the Judy McCrae award for her excellence in the areas of academics, athletics, and community service. Daneka lived at Renison during her first year in 2021 and continues to be an active member on Renison Student Wellness Committee and a Renison Student Ambassador. Daneka will bring an abundance of knowledge on how to support athletes in all areas of life.
Things you can connect with Daneka about include:
- Juggling life as a varsity athlete with your academics
- Making the most of your residence experience
- Maintaining your personal health and wellness as a student
Meet with Rubee Kung
Rubee is a 2A Honours Arts (Psychology) student who was a proud BASE grad during Fall 2022 term and will be serving as the Residence Experience Peer Leader, focusing on the BASE Living-Learning Community. Rubee was involved in the ELI Rep team and was an instrumental part in making the International Fair a success. Rubee is highly active within her school communities, and she is a great resource for students to learn about different ways to get involved.
You can connect with Rubee about:
- Life in the BASE program and tips for juggling the busy classes, including your credit course in BASE.
- Adjusting to life in North America and learning about great places off campus for East Asian food!
- How to access supports and resources at the University of Waterloo.
Meet with Maya Ghion
Maya is a 4A Social Development Studies student who is serving as the Residence Experience Peer Leader for the SDS (Social Development Studies) Living-Learning Community. Maya has been immersed within the Renison community as a previous SDS peer leader, an executive member on RASC (Renison Academic Student Council), and the Renison Academic Programs Assistant.
Maya will be a wonderful person to chat with about:
- Navigating SDS courses and learning more about options and specializations in the SDS program.
- Studying in SDS while also doing co-op.
- Accessing supports and services on campus, including resources for health and wellness.
Social Development Studies Peer Leaders
Are you an SDS student? Your Social Development Studies Peer Leaders are especially here to support you!
Meet with Natalie Nichol
Natalie is a 4B Public Health and Social Development Studies student. Natalie has been an active member within the University of Waterloo while participating in MATES, MEDLIFE, UW Cultural Language Exchange club and being an off-campus don. With her well-rounded volunteer experiences, Natalie is great to chat with you:
- The many different resources and ways to get involved on main campus.
- Life studying in both SDS and another program at Waterloo
- How to thrive as a first-year student.
Meet with Maya Ghion
Maya is a 4A Social Development Studies student who is serving as the Residence Experience Peer Leader for the SDS (Social Development Studies) Living-Learning Community. Maya has been immersed within the Renison community as a previous SDS peer leader, an executive member on RASC (Renison Academic Student Council), and the Renison Academic Programs Assistant.
Maya will be a wonderful person to chat with about:
- Navigating SDS courses and learning more about options and specializations in the SDS program.
- Studying in SDS while also doing co-op.
- Accessing supports and services on campus, including resources for health and wellness.
Meet with Deanna Rooke
For Online, Mature, and Transfer SDS students
Deanna is studying in Social Development Studies after having studied in the Social Service Worker program at Conestoga College. As a mature student, Deanna is a great resource for other students who have previously studied in college or university before, as well students navigating it for the first time.
Deanna loves to chat with students about:
- How to navigate online studies in the SDS program.
- Tips for making the adjustment from college to university.
- How to thrive (and sometimes survive!) as a mature student.
Student Experience and Housing staff
Want to meet with a full-time staff member of the Student Experience and Housing team? Sign up for a one-on-one meet-up. We're happy to help!
A.J. Dixon
English Language Institute Student Advisor
Office: REN 1930 (English Language Institute Hub)
A.J. completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Victoria with bachelor's degrees in Education and Arts. As a Student Advisor, A.J. is here to support students in our English language programs during their academic journey. A.J. can help you with:
- Effective learning strategies and study habits for Canadian university life
- Time management strategies so you can keep track of tests, assignments, and appointments
- Effective note-taking skills and getting the most out of your courses
- Preparing for tests and quizzes and reducing test anxiety
- Conversation practice and sharing what he knows about Canadian history and culture
Jen Burton
Housing Manager
Office: REN 0207 (Student Experience & Housing Hallway)
Jen is an alumna from Brock University in St. Catharine's where she studied Business Communications. As a proud Blue Jays fan, Jen is here to talk about all things baseball. You may also meet our honourary Reni-friends around Renison - Jen's children, Bryce and Hailey. As our Housing Manager, Jen is here to support students in having a meaningful residence experience. Jen can help you with:
- Questions related to living in Renison Residence, as well as off-campus in our local community
- Support with living on your own for your first time and how to navigate the transition
- Suggestions for effectively living with a roommate and having a fun experience in Residence
- How to get involved in your Renison community
Ryan Connell
Assistant Director, Student Experience & Housing
Office: REN 1108 (Renison Ministry Centre)
Ryan is a proud graduate from the Social Development Studies program at the University of Waterloo. As your Assistant Director, Student Experience & Housing, Ryan is very knowledgeable about all of the campus services and resources available to University of Waterloo students. Ryan grew up in a small town called Thunder Bay in Northern Ontario, and he is addicted to iced cappucinos from Tim Horton's. Some of Ryan's most popular things to talk about include:
- All of the campus services available to you as a Waterloo student and what you are able to access to support your academic and personal success
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student
- Advice for studying in an online environment. Fun fact: Ryan completed his UWaterloo degree, two college certificates, and a Masters degree completely online
- Tips for adjusting to Canadian culture and building your language skills outside of the classroom
Rev. Scott McLeod
Chaplain
Office: REN 1108 (Renison Ministry Centre)
Rev. Scott McLeod is the Chaplain at Renison University College. Scott is a friendly face and a safe space to talk about anything and everything. Scott enjoys talking about spiritual questions, but you don’t have to talk about religion unless you want to. Some of the most popular things Scott likes to help with include:
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student, including managing stress.
- Guidance to student services at the University of Waterloo as well as referrals to professional medical and health services in the local community.
- Spiritual care including acting as a spiritual director, helping students with faith questions, and valuing our spiritual lives.
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Pastoral care including being a listening ear, a safe person to talk to, and supporting people as they live through life's struggles.
Laura Mutton
Administrative Assistant
Office: REN 0208 (Student Experience and Housing Hallway)
Laura is a graduate of the Sexuality, Marriage, and Family Studies program at the University of Waterloo and St. Jerome’s University. Following the completion of her undergraduate degree, Laura completed her Master of Education in Social Justice Education at OISE at the University of Toronto. Laura can assist you with questions related to Renison residence, as well as Student Experience events and activities. Some things you can discuss with Laura include:
- Questions related to living in Renison Residence, as well as off-campus in our local community, including Homestay
- Support with living on your own for your first time and how to navigate the transition
- Suggestions for effectively living with a roommate and having a fun experience in Residence
- How to get involved in your Renison community
Stefany Kraft
Student Experience Coordinator
Office: REN 0209 (Student Experience and Housing Hallway)
Stefany Kraft is the queen of all things Renison! Stefany is a proud graduate from UWaterloo, where she double majored in Peace and Conflict Studies and Renison's Social Development Studies program. Stefany also completed her Bachelor of Social Work at Renison, where she completed her practicum in our Student Experience & Housing department as a Wellness Coordinator. During her undergraduate degree, Stefany worked as an English Language Institute Peer Leader, and volunteered extensively, including with Renison Academic Student Council (RASC) and as the student representative for Renison's Board of Governors. Stefany is here to help students have a phenomenal Renison experience. You can connect with Stefany to talk about:
- Mental health wellness and strategies to improve your well-being as a university student, including managing stress
- Guidance to student services at the University of Waterloo and what resources are available as a Waterloo student
- How to get involved and make the most of your student experience at Renison
- Conversation practice and learning more about life in Canada
Allison Marlowe
Student Experience Coordinator
Office: REN 0209 (Student Experience and Housing Hallway)
Allison Marlowe loves learning about new cultures. While she studied Social Development Studies at Renison, she also participated in a study abroad experience to Denmark. Allison has also studied in the ACE-TESOL program at Renison to teach English. She is now currently studying her Master of Education while supporting students at Renison. Allison lived in Renison Residence during her first year of university and participated on Renisix student council.
Popular things that Allison helps students with include:
- Navigating culture shock and adjusting to new environments, including homesickness
- How to thrive as a university student by learning about the student services and resources available to you
- How to get involved and make the most of your student experience at Renison
- Conversation practice and chatting about pop culture, including Taylor Swift