Jacqueline Nestico, Rehabilitation Sciences Institute

When I began my master’s studies at the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute (RSI) in 2018, I immediately looked for opportunities to become involved in student life. I took on an executive position with the Rehabilitation Sciences Graduate Student Union (RSGSU) as the Communications Officer, as well as joining several RSGSU committees. Now in my second year, I have had the privilege of taking on leadership positions including Co-President of the RSGSU and Co-Managing Editor for rehabINK’s Issue 9. Through my involvement with the RSGSU, I have listened to and engaged with the student body to identify their concerns and areas in which the RSGSU and RSI department can improve student life. In doing so I have assisted with and spearheaded initiatives, including advocating for financial equity for students and creating a networking resource for RSI students and alumni. With the disruption that the current pandemic has caused to regular daily life, I was also able to assist with seamlessly shifting multiple initiatives online, including RSI town halls, which have been instrumental in ensuring information is effectively disseminated to the students. Following my active efforts to ensure students are engaged and having positive graduate school experiences, I was proud to have received RSI’s Leadership and Inspiration Award.

As a student leader, I strive to enhance the positive experiences of my fellow students. Being heavily involved in student life has provided me with invaluable experiences and greatly improved my time at the University of Toronto. In turn, I encourage my peers to also seek out opportunities for involvement within RSI and the RSGSU. While my time at RSI is coming to an end, I hope that through my involvement and active leadership positions, I have made a positive impact on my peers and that I have inspired them to also strive for excellence.