Meet the YouAlberta Team

Ishan (he/him) is a fourth-year finance student at the U of A. He originates from Bhopal, a beautiful city in India known as the city of lakes. He has studied at eight schools and has lived in ten cities. Ishan loves travelling, meeting new people and experiencing different cultures. He is big on sports and enjoys playing soccer, squash, basketball, swimming and running half-marathons. His creative side includes writing poems and playing guitar when missing home. Ishan enjoys public speaking and strives to become a visiting lecturer to teach at all of the world's best universities, including Oxford, U of A, London School of Business and the Kyoto University in Japan.

Jeremy (he/him) is in his final year of a MA in communications and technology (MACT) at the U of A. When he's not writing a paper or reading a book, you can find him on some of Edmonton's river valley trails, or trying to get sendy on his skis.

Fyruz (she/her), a fourth-year media studies student, was born in Tripoli, Libya, and raised in Canada. She is creative and social, with a passion for all sorts of media. She enjoys everything from novels and films to crafting niche playlists for her and her friends. Fyruz values her community and focuses on dedicating more volunteer time to give back and connect with new people. Her long-term goal is a career in communications and she holds a deep desire to travel the world. Fyruz’s favourite spot on campus is the Senate Chamber in Old Arts because of its cozy armchairs and quiet atmosphere; it’s her go-to space for a peaceful study session or a relaxing reading break between classes.

Terrence (they/them), an Edmontonian who has spent five years studying computer science and English at the U of A, is a witty and multi-faceted creative. They express their creativity through powerful poetry performances, intricate embroidery projects and photography. Terrence actively practices queer joy in politically tangible ways and celebrates the uniqueness and beauty of queerness and transness. You can find Terrence enjoying North Campus green spaces and connecting with campus wildlife, like magpies, rabbits and squirrels, between classes or unwinding and watching silly movies alongside their partner.

Carla (she/her) is an international student from Vietnam studying at Augustana Campus in her first year of global studies and ethics. She is hardworking and adventurous, with a passion for knowledge and leadership. Outside of class, she dives into research that sparks her interest — right now, she’s focused on world geopolitics and the stock market. A dedicated reader, Carla balances her studies with a conquest for insight. She plans to become a journalism and a travel entrepreneur. Carla’s favourite spot at Augustana is the Library, where she enjoys the quiet focus of those around her.

Ashley (she/her), born and raised in Sherwood Park, is an ambitious student passionate about adventure. Known for her creativity and friendly spirit, she has practiced highland dancing—a Scottish tradition—for over 20 years! Ashley has even had the unique experience of performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland. She is a zealous traveller who has explored numerous countries through school and dance and plans to continue these global adventures. Ashley has a BSc in psychology from the U of A and is now in her first year of pursuing her MA in ancient societies and cultures. Next on her academic journey is to pursue her PhD. Ashley’s favourite campus spots include Old Arts and Convocation Hall, where she enjoys studying and reminiscing about her undergrad convocation.

Marlena (she/her) is in her third year of english and history major in the Faculty of Arts. Originally from Vancouver, Marlena joined the U of A from B.C. last year; however, her family is originally from Germany. She plans to study in the After Degree Education program to become a teacher once she completes her BA. Outside of school, she is a busy bee dedicating her time to volunteering and work. Marlena escapes the buzz by taking time to read, listen to music, walk her three dogs, watch movies and discover Edmonton’s cafe scene. She prefers Rutherford South for its quiet atmosphere and historical architecture.

Owais (he/him) is a third-year mechanical engineering major in the Faculty of Engineering, born and raised in the Sultanate of Oman (close to Dubai). With a taste for adventure, his future plans include exploring South America and Antarctica, but for now, you can find Owais enjoying a good Tom Clancy book while sipping on his favourite Tim’s coffee. His favourite place on campus is on the eighth floor of DICE to soak in the panoramic views of downtown and the river valley, along with enjoying the lively atmosphere of hanging out with fellow engineering students.

Rebeca (she/her) is a fourth-year philosophy and political science honors student. Originally from Mexico, she retains her culture through cooking traditional Mexican dishes, trying new vegan recipes and making her food extra spicy. Rebeca relishes exploring Edmonton’s river valley hiking trails. Passionate about connecting with under-represented communities and telling their stories, she plans to pursue a career in journalism.

Yann est un étudiant en deuxième année, en administration des affaires, spécialité finance. Yann est au Centre Collégial de l’Alberta, au Campus Saint-Jean de l’Université de l’Alberta. Yann est le bloggeur pour le CSJ et vice président des étudiants internationaux au sein de l’Association des Universitaires de la Faculté Saint Jean (AUFSJ). Yann aime apprendre et découvrir de nouvelles choses et il est également passionné par les nouveaux concepts.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Mel (she/her) is an adventurous first-year PhD student in political science. She is a dedicated yoga practitioner who starts her mornings with yin or vinyasa sessions. On weekends, you’ll often find her exploring the Farmers’ Market or specialty grocery stores in search of new ingredients and culinary inspiration. Mel is an avid fantasy and science fiction reader and supports Edmonton’s arts community. She frequently attends concerts, theatre performances and live shows, from the Citadel to the Edmonton Opera. Mel volunteers with organizations like the Edmonton Global Shapers Hub and the Canuks Autism Network and is currently the president of the Political Sciences Graduate Students’ Association. She strives to publish more articles and ultimately become a professor. Though new to North Campus, you can find her enjoying the natural light in the SUB atrium or unwinding at Dewey’s at the end of a long day.

Born in India and immigrated to Canada at 12, Gurleen (she/her) is an outgoing, friendly and proactive Sikh-Canadian with roots in beautiful Kashmir. She enjoys our city’s vibrant community, chai lattes and dining out at Cafe Amore Bistro. Gurleen brings energy and enthusiasm to everything she does and loves playing volleyball and badminton. Gurleen is in her fourth year of psychology and is a passionate mental health advocate. She runs a page dedicated to normalizing mental health conversations. Her goal is to find a balance between meaningful work and life. You’ll often find Gurleen relaxing in her favourite cozy spot behind the Daily Grind, a personal little cave, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of twinkling lights and comfy couches.