Nominee: Aleena Mansoor

Undergraduate Nominee: Aleena Mansoor, Biologicial Science, Faculty of Science

 How have you been a leader at the University of Calgary? What qualities do all good student leaders possess?

Leaders exist in many different aspects and in many different forms. I have been extensively involved with the Students' Union for the past two years as one of the Science Representatives and have gained lots of leadership experience from the position. From being a student representative on committees to running and promoting student initiatives, I have been able to lead the undergraduate population.

How have you been involved in the community during your university career?

There are many community activities that I have been involved with throughout my university career. One of the major ones is MOSAIC Inc which provided volunteer opportunities for youth around the city and trains them in leadership skills. As a VP on this non-profit organization, I was a project co-ordinator and helped with initiatives like the mustard seed and face off against cancer. I have also been involved with Kids Help Phone and have raised awareness through community outreach projects and canvassing.

How have you balanced school with your other commitments on campus and in the community?

Time management is a key skill that University students attain. Balancing school, extra-cirriculars and personal life is a challenge that all students face. Throughout my time at the university I prioritized and managed all my commitments to the best of my ability. I also used my agenda religiously!

University is what you make it, so how have you been making the most of your university career?

University is a chance to grow and discover yourself. How do you do this? You try everything, and I mean everything! By doing this you slowly learn what things you're good at, what things you enjoy and what you want to pursue. Throughout my university career I have been extensively involved on campus, from sports to clubs to student governance, I have tried it all! And loved it all! University has shaped me into the person I am today and I am so thankful to the UofC for giving me all the experiences I have had over the past four years!

Class Ambassadors are permanent representatives of their graduating class. What is the role of University of Calgary alumni in the community and how will you represent the university to alumni and future alumni?

The role of the Alumni is to continually leave their mark on societies all over the world and showcase the excellence of the University of Calgary. They have been instrumental in making the University of Calgary what it is today and will continue to expand on this in the future. As a representative of the University's to the alumni, I will demonstrate to them the great leaps that the 2012 class has made during their time at the UofC!