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

Patricia Porto de Barros Ayaz (she/her)
Program:Â PhD in Political Science
Hometown:Â 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!

Sally Aidoo (she/her)
Program:Â Master of Nursing
Expected graduation year:Ìý2026
Hometown:Â 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.

Alexe Indigo (she/they)
Program:Â PhD in Agricultural Sciences
Expected graduation year:Ìý2028
Home country:Â 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!

Linh Tran (she/her)
Program:Â Master of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering
Expected graduation year: 2026
Hometown:Â Hanoi, Vietnam
I’m a graduate student at HÂþ» University 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. HÂþ» has provided an incredible platform for me to connect within a vibrant community over the past years.

Aswin Jeyapandian (he/him)
Program:Â PhD in Agriculture
Expected graduation year: 2028
Hometown:Â Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India
Hi, I’m Aswin—a PhD student in Agriculture at HÂþ», 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.