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Meet the mentors

A collage of students using laptops.

Meet the graduate student mentors taking part in the Together@Dal: Grad Edition orientation program for incoming grad students

Dal peer mentor headshot

Patricia Porto de Barros Ayaz (she/her)

Program: PhD in Political Science

Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Hello, new and returning Dalhousians! My name is Patricia, and I love hiking, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends. I'm also actively involved in university life and excited to be part of the mentors’ team, who are eager to welcome and support students. If you’re interested in learning more about the programs and opportunities Dal has to offer, making new friends, or settling in and getting to know Halifax, I look forward to seeing you at the Together@Dal panels, workshops, and events—like our famous Karaoke and Games Night. Wishing everyone a fantastic year ahead!

Dal peer mentor headshot

Sally Aidoo (she/her)

Program: Master of Nursing

Expected graduation year:Ìý2026

Hometown: Mpintsin, Ghana

I'm a fun loving, goal driven person with a passion for learning and growth. I have over a decade of experience in nursing. Communication and collaboration are some of my core values. I enjoy solving problems creatively, and I'm always looking for new challenges that push me to improve. Outside of work, I like to spend quality time with loved ones.

Dal peer mentor headshot

Alexe Indigo (she/they)

Program: PhD in Agricultural Sciences

Expected graduation year:Ìý2028

Home country: St. John's, NL, Canada

My educational background is in botanical dyes, textile-based art, and plant science, but I'm currently studying how invasive insects in Nova Scotia can impact us ecologically and socially. I have a tiny dog named Piper, and a giant orange fluffy cat named Captain who both love attending virtual meetings with me. Outside of school and work, I love cooking for friends, camping, and learning new things!

Dal peer mentor headshot

Linh Tran (she/her)

Program: Master of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering

Expected graduation year: 2026

Hometown: Hanoi, Vietnam

I’m a graduate student at ÈâÈ⴫ý with a passion for advancing medical technologies. My research explores the enhancement of already existing disease diagnostic methods to improve sensitivity and accuracy. I love being a mentor and am always open to questions related to my field. Outside of academics, I enjoy dance as a creative outlet and a way to stay grounded. ÈâÈ⴫ý has provided an incredible platform for me to connect within a vibrant community over the past years.

Dal peer mentor headshot

Aswin Jeyapandian (he/him)

Program: PhD in Agriculture

Expected graduation year: 2028

Hometown: Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

Hi, I’m Aswin—a PhD student in Agriculture at ÈâÈ⴫ý, recently transferred from the Master’s program. I’m originally from Tamil Nadu, India, and my background in Forestry has shaped my love for nature, wildlife, and bird photography. I’m also a big fan of anime and movies, so feel free to reach out if you ever want recommendations or a fun debate! I'm passionate about sustainable farming and using research to make real-world impact. You’ll usually find me either in the lab or off on a hike or trek with a camera in hand.