Tanuja Persaud
Tanuja Persaud
Graduate Administrator, English
“I have the opportunity to be involved in many aspects of our students’ lives.”
In my former position as the Chair’s Executive Assistant in the Department of English, I had the opportunity to work closely with graduate students. My curiosity was piqued and there was no going back. I became very interested in working with graduate students.
As the Graduate Administrator, I wear many hats—problem-solver, counsellor, friend, the list goes on. I have the opportunity to be involved in many aspects of our students’ lives.
Graduate studies is about pursuing one’s passion. Students have the unique opportunity to further their knowledge in a specific field of study. They are able to work with top researchers in their fields—U of T has the reputation of being at the forefront of ground-breaking research, attracting faculty and students of the highest calibre from around the world. It is a privilege to be part of a university community that is one of the most respected and influential research institutions in the world.
It is truly a wonderful experience to play an active role in the academic career of our students. There is a sense of pride and accomplishment to be involved in the journey of our graduate students: starting from the very beginning at the admissions process, when they first nervously contact the department for application information, to the day they confidently march across the stage in Convocation Hall. It is very rewarding, yet sad at the same time to say goodbye, as they move on to the next phase of their lives.