Are you an incoming first-year international U of T Engineering student? The First Year E-Buddy Program is here to support you with your transition to the Faculty and the University!
E-Buddies are upper-year engineering peer mentors who will provide support by answering questions about life at U of T Engineering, sharing their experiences, and providing information about campus resources. They will also provide informal programming and events to build community amongst international students, as well as provide support through structured workshops and events.
All first-year international* students are eligible to participate in this program. You will receive an email invitation to join the First Year Hub, which launches on Quercus in mid-June. We've gathered lots of great information in the Hub on Quercus to provide you with an overview of the supports and resources that are available to you as you navigate through your first year of studies as an international student.
The E-Buddy program is free for new U of T Engineering international students, and all workshops and meetups are free for registration.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to connect with any of our E-Buddies! They can be reached at ebuddy@engineering.utoronto.ca
*If you identify as an international student but are a returning Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident, you are also eligible to participate in the E-Buddy program. Please reach out to the First Year Office (firstyear@engineering.utoronto.ca) for more information.
2024 E-Buddy Team Bios
Maahi, ChemE Year 2
Hi everyone! My name is Maahi and I’m so excited to be one of your E-buddies this year. Originally, I am from India, however, I have lived abroad my whole life (Canada is the 8th country I have lived in!). I am in my second year studying chemical engineering here at U of T and I am particularly interested in learning more about sustainable energies and nuclear power.
Within U of T, I am a Brand Growth and Marketing Associate for YNCN as well as the sponsorship co-chair for F!rosh 2T4! Outside of academics, you’ll often find me hitting the gym, planning fun side-quests or curling up with a good book or show. I am thrilled to be part of the E-Buddy program and look forward to sharing my experiences, offering guidance, and helping you make the most of your time here. Let's make this year a memorable one together!
Mahmoud, MSE Year 3
Hey there! I’m Mahmoud Rashid, but you can call me Mac. I’m thrilled to be your E-Buddy this year. I was born in Tanzania, East Africa, and I’m an international student here at U of T. I’m a third-year student majoring in Materials Science and Engineering and minoring in Business and Nanotechnology. I’m super into superconductors and how they could help save our planet by cutting down on global warming and greenhouse gases.
I've had some amazing experiences helping international students at the Center for International Experience (CIE) and as a Frosh leader during the first-year engineering orientation. As a certified mentor, I’m here to guide you through your first year and make your transition as smooth as possible. I know firsthand how nerve-wracking it can be, and I'm here to make sure you have all the support you need. I've got your back every step of the way!
Fun fact: I’m the oldest of nine siblings. Yep, nine! So, looking out for others is practically second nature to me.
I know how stressful and overwhelming the shift from high school to university can be. My goal is to ease any confusion and share some of the wisdom I’ve picked up along the way. I’m here to help, support, and guide you through this exciting journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here for you!