Jessica Chubb: Studying for Success Coordinator

I began my career in higher education in 2004 as a graduate writing assistant at Saint Mary’s University (SMU) while pursuing my master’s degree. After 5 years in that role, I went on to hold the position of manager of the SMU Writing Centre. In 2010, I became the coordinator of the Dalhousie Studying for Success (SFS) Program, where my main responsibilities include helping to develop students’ skills in becoming more effective learners. I think the best part of this role has been getting to interact with students, supporting them on their journey to success, and being able to witness positive changes in their academic life.

In addition to my primary work-related duties, my dedication to helping others learn can be seen in my pursuits. For 5 years, I volunteered on a weekly basis in the English Language Learning Program of the Halifax Public Library, where I tutored new immigrants to Canada. For 6 years, I was an instructor with the Refining Program in the College of Continuing Education, where I helped students regain their academic skills necessary for success. For 10 years, I taught students how to effectively write for academic purposes.

I hold an LL.B. (Hons.) degree from the University of London, a B.A. (High Hons.) in International Studies and Politics from the University of Saskatchewan, and an M.A. in International Development from Saint Mary’s University.

Fun Facts: I LOVE to travel and visit new and exciting places. Love theatre, music, and the arts in general. I like museums, castles, and anything with historical significance. Also, I’m originally from the Caribbean, but I hate intense heat. I love winter even when no one else does!

How I identify: Afro-Caribbean, immigrant, proud Canadian, daughter, friend, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, cis-gender female, able-bodied

Clifton Strengths: Relator, Achiever, Harmony, Connectedness, Intellection

Pronouns: she, her, hers

Charlie: Peer Advisor

My name is Charlie Forbes (they/them pronouns) and I am a fourth year student finishing my BA in sociology with a minor in creative writing. As a queer and trans student with ADHD and other learning disabilities, I struggled with traditional classroom learning in high school and the beginning of university. Because of this, I am passionate about celebrating students’ strengths and (neuro)diversities, and I know how important it is to foster an inclusive and accessible learning space for students of all backgrounds. I began my degree at Acadia university and transferred to Dal in my second year, and I found the Bissett Centre’s On Track program incredibly helpful in that time of transition. In the future I hope to go into education, so this peer academic advising position is an exciting opportunity for me to work in my chosen career field. In my free time you can find me exploring nature, reading and writing science fiction stories, doing yoga, and taking care of my plant collection.  

Tip for success: Do not let grades define who you are as a person. Grades can be a good measure of how you are doing in a given class or subject, but whether they are low or high, they do not reflect on your value as a person. Learning about your strengths and passions outside of the classroom environment can make room for grades to be just one way of determining where you're at on your learning journey. 

Pronouns: they/them

Joseph: Peer Advisor

I was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I just finished my Bachelor of Arts, with Honours in Sociology and a Minor in Gender and Women’s Studies, and am beginning my Master of Arts in Sociology in the fall of 2022. Broadly speaking, my Honours and graduate research explores queer people’s experiences with and attitudes towards the coming out process, and what the process means to them. Throughout my time at Dalhousie University, I have become interested in research, writing, and work that allows me to support my community. 

My best tip for success: Do not be afraid to ask for help! At Dal, there are so many people that are ready to help you make the most of your education. When you reach out and ask questions, you get the right answers, and the confidence, to move forward and succeed.

How I identify: white, cisgender, queer, able-bodied, settler.

Pronouns: he/him

Hayley: Peer Advisor
I was born and raised in Pictou, Nova Scotia and am proud to call Halifax my second home. I am in my third year in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program, and in the future I hope to pursue a master's degree in occupational therapy. I have always loved working with people and giving back to my community. One of my passions is Relay for Life, which is a fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society. I have taken part in this fundraiser for the past few years and had the opportunity to help organize it at Dalhousie in March, 2019. In addition to helping people, I love that volunteering enables me to meet like-minded individuals through shared goals and passions.

My best tip for success: As important as it is to focus on academics, it is just as important to focus on yourself. University should not be a constant cycle of "work-eat-sleep-repeat". You will learn so much about yourself and your hopes for the future through participating in extracurricular activities, volunteering, being employed part-time, spending time with friends, and having some "down-time" to unwind. There are many opportunities on campus to meet new people, gain valuable experiences, and explore your passions. 

How I identify: Cis-gender female, able-bodied, daughter, sister

Pronouns: She/her