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A huge congratulations goes out to over 200+ APHD students who have recently become alumni as they graduated from various APHD programs last month. We are so proud of them and wish them all the best as they close this chapter and start a new one.

We caught up with some of our graduates for their final thoughts as they embark on life post grad school!

In no specific order.

Barbara Komendera
Developmental Psychology and Education (DPE) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
Take every opportunity to connect with your professors and build relationships with them. I often stayed behind after class to ask for feedback on essay topics or to further my understanding of course content. These quick academic check-ins frequently turned into spontaneous, wide-ranging conversations that I found incredibly enriching. They gave me a deeper insight into the professors—not just as scholars, but as people—and helped me better understand their perspectives. Your professors at OISE are leaders in their fields: generous with their time and genuinely passionate about sharing their expertise.

Equally important is connecting with your classmates. They bring such diverse perspectives and experiences to the program, and I found every opportunity to collaborate with them deeply rewarding and informative. Some of my most valuable learning came through peer conversations and shared projects. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get involved—you’ll gain so much more from the experience.

What next?
I completed my Master of Education part-time while working as a full-time middle and senior Mathematics teacher. Over the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching math and science in both Australia and Canada. My studies at OISE focused primarily on addressing and reducing math anxiety—a topic I’m deeply passionate about, shaped by my own experiences as a woman in mathematics. I’m excited to bring this learning into my classroom, with a particular focus on creating inclusive and empowering experiences for young women in mathematics and STEM.

Why OISE?
The ¥������ (OISE) remains at the forefront of the latest research and innovations in human development and education. The work emerging from this institute significantly contributes to global research scholarship and informs policies in Ontario. My greatest growth during my Ph.D. journey resulted from the interdisciplinary approach to learning and research at OISE, which has made me a versatile scholar with specialized skills and experiences.

Hajung Kim
Developmental Psychology and Education (DPE) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
Keep your goals in mind and always seek out new opportunities. There are so many possibilities available at OISE and across the U of T campus—whether it’s work-study positions, GA/TA roles, or research volunteer opportunities. If you take the initiative to explore, even more doors will open for you.

What next?
I plan to pursue a PhD program and continue developing the data analysis skills I gained during my time in this program. In June, I’ll be starting a new role as a data management administrator. I also plan to stay involved in language education and continue teaching, as it remains a meaningful part of my professional journey.

Why OISE?
I’ve always had a strong interest in research, and OISE gave me the chance to learn from and be inspired by world-class faculty. Being involved in their research was an incredibly valuable experience. I also had the privilege of meeting faculty and peers who became role models and helped me envision my future path. Studying alongside such a diverse community of students expanded my perspectives and helped me grow in so many ways. 

Isabel Khudr
Developmental Psychology and Education (DPE) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
Seize every opportunity to connect with your professors, faculty, and fellow graduate students. Taking initiative, whether it's by volunteering in labs, joining projects, or helping out at events, will bring you closer to the vibrant community at OISE. These experiences not only deepen your learning but also open doors to unexpected opportunities that align with your passions.

What next?
I am excited to be working at the Learning Disabilities Association of York-Simcoe as a Program Coordinator! I also plan to take some time to travel and explore the world, with hopes of returning to OISE in the future as a PhD student.

Why OISE?
Choosing OISE for your postgraduate studies takes you on a journey you may never have imagined. It's a place where you're surrounded by passionate, creative, and driven individuals who share a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and youth. The supportive environment, rigorous academic challenges, and opportunities to engage in meaningful, real-world projects create space for both professional and personal growth. I've been incredibly fortunate to contribute to groundbreaking initiatives that not only deepened my knowledge but also empowered me to grow into a more confident, purpose-driven version of myself. 

Kaitlyn Harris
Child Study and Education (CSE) program, MA ‘25

Words of wisdom:
Graduate school is a challenge like no other, but you’ll have a network of mentors and supporters to see you through it. Of all the things you take away from OISE—academic resources, disciplinary knowledge, career opportunities, even your degree—the most transformative by far will be your relationships. They will hold you up in your most difficult moments. They will help you along your professional journey. But most importantly, they will provide meaning to the decisions you make and the work that you do. At the end of the day, we’re all here studying education because we care about our communities and the people within them. Hold on to that truth and embrace the opportunity to live and work in relationship with others. You’re in good company.

What next?
I’m excited to continue my research in curriculum and writing development, investigating how we can facilitate transfer between the writing classroom and the many situations in which students compose texts. This work will inform and inspire my teaching practice as I further develop my pedagogy. I hope to help my students access the epistemological and communicative agency of writing, and shape educational environments that value the many ways that people create and express meaning.

Why OISE?
As a University of Toronto alumna, I knew that there was nowhere else I wanted to continue my academic journey and pursue my master’s degree. I chose OISE because of its research orientation, but I quickly learned that its philosophy is situated at the nexus of theory and practice. The CSE program’s connections with schools across Toronto provided me with extended and in-depth practical opportunities. Each of my three placements gave me a unique window into the possibilities of education, creating space for me to explore different approaches toward translating research and action. The people who guided and collaborated with me throughout these experiences will continue to be important connections in my life.

If you have questions about graduate studies at OISE or want to chat about language and literacy, please feel free to 

Sharyn Addo-Nyarko
Child Study and Education (CSE) program, MA ‘25

Words of wisdom:
Stepping into the Master of Child Study and Education program at OISE as a Black student was both exciting and overwhelming. I didn’t know what to expect, but I was certain that I could bring my full self and diverse perspectives into a space with other aspiring educators. Throughout the program, I found it to be insightful and informative; I would engage in discussions in class and then apply the pedagogy in practicum the very next day. The MACSE program wasn’t just about coursework; it was about learning strategies and tools to enhance my skills as an educator because when we as educators improve, the students we teach will also improve. The faculty and my peers in the program were immensely supportive. It felt more like a family than just a community, especially in the classrooms of JICS. It was a place where making mistakes and asking questions were welcomed, as we were all there for the same reason.

What next?
What's next is applying everything I’ve learned in the MACSE program, such as inclusive pedagogy, various teaching styles, and considering the whole child, directly into practice. I aspire to be an educator who not only teaches the curriculum but also helps young students see themselves reflected, valued, and empowered in their learning and classrooms. I am committed to advocating for systemic change in the school boards, especially for Black students and other marginalized groups. I understand that I will never stop learning, as there will always be new and updated practices and research. Currently, I am enjoying my role as an occasional teacher at my internship school with the Toronto District School Board. 

Why OISE?
I chose OISE because it is one of the best teacher education programs in Canada. They offer a diverse and inclusive environment, and the MACSE program is small, allowing for a close-knit community, hands-on learning, and access to professors. There were plenty of opportunities for practical experience in the field, with two placements and an internship. OISE didn’t just prepare me to be a teacher; it helped me become the kind of teacher I never had but always needed.

Nada Hussein
Counselling Psychology (CP) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
You are stepping into a field that will ask you to hold others’ pain while learning how to hold your own. This program is not just about mastering theory or technique; it’s about meeting yourself over and over again, sometimes in ways that are uncomfortable, humbling, and deeply healing.

One thing I’ve learned is that growth here rarely comes from getting it “right.” It comes from showing up honestly, being curious when you feel stuck, and allowing yourself not to have all the answers. There will be moments when you’ll doubt yourself and the reasons why you are here. Imposter syndrome may creep in quietly, making you question whether you’re cut out for this work. Know that you are not alone in that experience. Many of us have sat in those same chairs wondering if we belong, only to discover that those very questions are part of the journey.

Let yourself be changed. Let others challenge you. Let your classmates support you. Let your therapeutic work be a steady companion in this journey. Most importantly, trust that you belong here, especially in the moments you feel like you don’t.

What next?
I’m still exploring that fully, but I know I’m passionate about working with individuals in transitional or identity-forming stages of life. I would love to support student populations at a post-secondary institution, where I can help clients navigate academic pressures, relational challenges, and identity exploration. I’m also drawn to working in community-based settings with individuals from marginalized backgrounds, where I can offer culturally responsive and affirming care. I'm keeping an open mind, but my hope is to be in spaces that value equity, healing, and relational connection.

Why OISE?
I chose OISE because I wanted a program that emphasized both academic rigor and deep personal reflection. I was drawn to its strong focus on anti-oppressive and social justice-oriented practice, and I knew I wanted to train in an environment that would challenge me to think critically about power, identity, and my positionality as a therapist.

My practicum experience at the OISE Psychology Clinic affirmed that I had chosen the right program. The clinic’s unique structure, serving both students and members of the community, allowed me to work with a diverse range of clients and helped me gain exposure to the populations I hope to continue supporting in the future. The collaborative environment, along with regular case conferences and peer consultation, pushed me to think critically about how I approach therapy, not just in terms of interventions but in how I attune to identity, context, and power within the therapeutic relationship. It shaped the way I understand what it means to be a thoughtful, ethical, and responsive clinician.

Lucas Aragao
Child Study and Education (CSE) program, MA ’25

Words of wisdom:
Your time at OISE will be transformative. You’ll learn just as much from your peers as you will from your professors. Lean into the relationships you build—they will support you, challenge you, and inspire you in ways you can’t yet imagine. As someone who came into teaching after surviving cancer and spending time with children in the hospital, I was reminded every day of the power of connection and compassion. Teaching is not just about curriculum—it's about being present, being human, and making a difference in the lives of your students. Stay grounded in your “why” and don’t be afraid to bring your full, authentic self to your classroom.

What next?
I’m currently teaching in a Grade 4/5 classroom with the Toronto District School Board and really enjoying it. Each day brings something different, and I love the creativity, flexibility, and relationships that come with being in the classroom. It’s a fast-paced environment, but it keeps me learning and growing alongside my students. I plan to continue in this role next year and deepen my practice through experience. In the long term, I’d love to take on a mentorship role—supporting teacher candidates or new grads the same way mentors supported me throughout my journey at OISE and during practicum. Giving back in that way would feel full circle.

Why OISE?
OISE stood out to me because of the people. From the very beginning, I felt part of a community that was both supportive and inspiring. The professors brought real-world insight, and the program was well-structured to help us move from theory to practice in meaningful ways. What really stayed with me, though, were the friendships I built and the professional confidence I gained. I felt challenged in a good way—encouraged to reflect, collaborate, and step outside of my comfort zone. OISE gave me the tools and the people I needed to grow into the kind of teacher I always hoped to be.

Leslie Gallagher
Counselling Psychology (CP) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
People are truly here to support you. Not just your professors and the administrative team, but also your classmates, who (don’t forget!) are all training to be therapists and are likely deeply empathetic, supportive people who are dedicating their careers to helping others.

It's also common that people who enter this field bring their own lived experiences with mental health. To add another layer to my learning, I often applied the interventions we studied in class to my own life. For example, if we learned a new approach to managing anxiety, I would try it the next time I noticed anxious feelings and reflect on my experience. Beyond being personally helpful, this experiential process helped me discover which modalities resonated with me and made it easier to introduce interventions to clients from a place of genuine solidarity.

What next?
As a newly minted Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I plan to join a group or private practice in Toronto where I can work with adults from the 2SLGBTQ+ community who are seeking to strengthen their relationships. I draw from a trauma-informed and non-hierarchical, relationship anarchy lens—gently questioning default cultural narratives about how relationships ‘should’ look, and supporting clients in building relationships that reflect their values, needs, and identities.

Why OISE?
My path into psychology wasn’t straightforward, and I come from a non-psychology undergraduate background. One of the reasons I chose OISE’s Counselling Psychology program because it values diverse academic and professional experiences, allowing me to bring my unique perspective to applying psychological principles that support healing and meaningful change.

I also chose OISE because of the practicum component, which was invaluable. As an applied learner, it was navigating those clinical experiences with clients in real time—with strong supervision and peer consultation, of course— that I felt the real learning happened for me.

I also want to highlight that OISE adapted alongside me throughout my journey. When unexpected life events came up, the program provided concrete support, such as accommodations or a leave of absence, always paired with kindness and understanding to help me reach this graduation milestone. Thank you, OISE! 

Please reach out to me on  if you have any questions about OISE, the CP program, or are a fellow Maritimer in Toronto. I would be happy to connect!

Zohra Amir Ali
Child Study and Education (CSE) program, MA’25

Words of wisdom:
The opportunity to pursue higher education is a profound privilege—one that nurtures not only our intellect but also catalyzes deep personal growth. It invites us on a journey of self-exploration and discovery, revealing our strengths, uncovering our weaknesses, challenging our hidden biases, and shaping our evolving identity. Embrace this journey wholeheartedly. Remember, success is not solely defined by grades or scores. You may not always be at the top of the class, but you may be the one who leaves a lasting impact—on your peers, your field, and the community around you. True achievement lies in growth, purpose, and the difference you make.

What next?
I’m thrilled to begin my career as an Elementary Teacher in a public school setting. I also look forward to exploring opportunities—both nationally and internationally—that allow me to contribute to early childhood development and advocate for inclusive learning environments.

Why OISE?
I chose the MA in Child Study and Education (CSE) program at OISE to explore education and child development in an integrated and meaningful way—and it turned out to be one of my best decisions. The program deepened my understanding of child development and equipped me with practical skills to apply evidence-based practices. The Professional Practice course, specialized placement, and an opportunity to engage with an international project aimed at promoting awareness about inclusion were standout experiences for me, offering valuable insights into diverse educational perspectives. Above all, the unwavering support and sense of belonging fostered by the faculty made my journey truly exceptional. I’m proud and grateful to be part of the OISE MA CSE community.

Tharsiga Gunasegaran
Developmental Psychology and Education (DPE) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
Graduate school is an incredibly rewarding journey, though it can also be complex. At OISE, you will be immersed in sustained inquiry, critical engagement and invited to ongoing academic conversations that emphasize methodological rigour and accountability—all while balancing the commitments and demands of life beyond the classroom. The path ahead may not always be easy, but you do not need to navigate this complexity alone. One of the most valuable steps you can take early in your graduate studies is to build a strong support network. The ability to connect with trusted peers and mentors - to explore theoretical frameworks, exchange ideas and reflect on your academic progress - is not only an academic checkpoint, but the scaffolding that will support you through the challenges and triumphs of the years to come. 

Equally vital is the disposition you bring to your learning. Maintain your intellectual curiosity and embrace the humility that comes with recognizing the limits of your current knowledge. Graduate studies are not predicated on definitive answers, rather refines your capacity for thoughtful, iterative engagement with complex ideas. This process necessitates an openness to feedback, particularly when it challenges your assumptions. Welcome this feedback as an opportunity to reflect and revisit your work with renewed clarity and resilience. In this way, the most formative academic moments will emerge not from discovering the right answer, but from learning how to formulate the right questions. 

What next?
As I look ahead, I hope to continue exploring how biological and psychosocial factors interact to shape individual and population-level outcomes. I am particularly interested in examining these interactions through a systems-oriented lens to inform more equitable and contextually responsive approaches in healthcare and education. Underlying this commitment is a strong belief in the transformative potential of education as a foundational tool and catalyst for sustainable systemic change. 

Why OISE?
As students, we have the privilege of learning from faculty who are not only leaders and trailblazers in their respective fields, but who approach their work and teaching with deep intentionality, generosity and care. Their passion is contagious, and it has been an incredible honour to be mentored by such scholars! 

Ying Lu
Developmental Psychology and Education (DPE) program, MEd '25

Words of wisdom:
The support I found at OISE — from professors who encouraged critical thinking to classmates who brought diverse perspectives — helped me realize that learning is not just about getting things "right." It’s about asking better questions, embracing complexity, and being open to the process of trial and error.

Graduate school is not a race. It's a marathon of building skills, confidence, and relationships. Take time to get to know your professors and peers — many of the best insights I gained came from casual conversations outside the classroom. Also, don’t hesitate to step into roles that seem a little bigger than you; you’ll grow into them faster than you think.

Trust in the journey. OISE is a place that will not only shape your professional skills but also challenge and refine who you are becoming.

You are exactly where you need to be — lean into it.

What next?
During my time at OISE, I discovered the career path I am truly passionate about. Moving forward, I am determined to pursue work that not only fulfills my personal aspirations but also creates meaningful value for society. I believe that growth does not end in the classroom — it is a lifelong journey. With the skills and mindset I have developed, I am ready to meet future challenges with confidence and turn knowledge into action.
 

Why OISE?
I chose OISE because of its strong reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to fostering critical, evidence-based thinking. The Developmental Psychology and Education program, especially with its emphasis on program evaluation, offered exactly the blend of theory and practice I was seeking.

At OISE, I found not only rigorous academic training but also a diverse and supportive community that challenged me to think beyond conventional boundaries. The faculty’s expertise and mentorship encouraged me to refine my skills in research, data analysis, and leadership — all of which have been essential to my personal and professional growth.

OISE has empowered me to turn my passion for education and program improvement into actionable skills, preparing me to make meaningful contributions both in my career and to society at large.

Irfa Jamani
Masters of Education (MEd) program, counselling psychology '25

Words of wisdom:
Give yourself permission to grow at your own pace. Graduate school can bring pressure to constantly achieve, but some of the most meaningful learning happens in moments of uncertainty, rest, and reflection. Stay grounded in your values, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for support, it’s a strength, not a weakness. OISE is rich in people and perspectives. Build connections beyond your program, explore unexpected courses or events, and trust that your path will unfold in its own time. Most importantly, nurture your whole self. Your wellbeing matters just as much as your work.

What next?
I am excited to share that I have launched my private practice, Glow Mental Health, where I offer virtual therapy across Ontario and seasonal walk-and-talk therapy in some communities. My practice focuses on supporting individuals and couples navigating a range of issues.

Why OISE?
I chose OISE for its strong focus on social justice, critical reflection, and holistic approaches to education and mental health. As someone drawn to deep, relational therapeutic work, I was looking for a program that would not only strengthen my clinical skills but also nurture my growth as a reflective, culturally responsive practitioner. OISE offered a space where I could integrate my lived experience, professional background, and passion for perinatal and trauma-informed care into meaningful therapeutic practice.