St John's College

Asper student showcases personal growth while living in St John's Residence

Third-year entrepreneurship student shares his growth at UM living in St John's residence.

Student standing in the hallways of St John's Residence
Estimated Read Time:
1 minute
Estimated Read Time:
1 minute

A Johnian living in St John’s residence since his first year of studies, Hamidou has evolved as a third-year Asper School of Business student looking to spread his experience into entrepreneurship. 

Originally from West Africa, Hamidou serves as a Resident Don, supporting students in residence as part of a team available 24/7. These students are trained to help build a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.

I chose St John’s because a friend had told me about his experience, which sounded very positive. I found it to be a close-knit community where everyone talks to each other, you feel like you belong, and it’s diverse. You can walk in the halls and know everyone; it feels like home.”

Hamidou

Since coming to Canada, Hamidou has seen himself grow over time with the new experiences he’s had. In being a resident Don and serving the other students within the residence, Hamidou has learned new skills, such as leadership, that he plans to take into his career.  

Living in the residence has motivated me to be better, go to class, learn, and build the skills I need to go into my career. I’ve learned better study habits, enjoy working with other students in the residence, and have met some of my closest friends here.

Hamidou

Reflecting on his experience, Hamidou now mentors the new students moving into the residence each semester as a resident Don. Whether helping them find their classes, feel comfortable in the residence, or mentoring them to grow as people, Hamidou found from his own experience to not put too much pressure on himself.   

  

When I first moved in, I was nervous. Looking back, I would tell students not to put too much pressure on themselves; the residence isn’t as scary as it looks; you just have to take it one day at a time and be open to new things. You will evolve, change your interests, go with the flow.

Hamidou

Hamidou, currently in his third year, is looking to finish his studies and move into corporate industries where he can apply his entrepreneurship skills.   

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