Algonquin Students’ Association

Dreams of studying abroad lead to entrepreneurship and student government

In the lead-up to Convocation Spring 2025, Algonquin College is featuring unique stories of graduates and their post-secondary education journeys.

A woman with long dark hair stands in front of a sign that says Students' Association.

Maria Silveira

From an early age, Maria Silveira always dreamt of studying abroad. Growing up in São Paulo, Brazil, Silveira’s parents encouraged her to pursue education to achieve her goals. After completing a Bachelor of Engineering and Master of Business Administration in Brazil, she spent eight years working with project management before deciding to apply to Algonquin College.

“It was a very tricky moment for me because although I wanted to have this experience abroad, I was already at a point in my career where I felt I was achieving the success I had aimed for,” said Silveira. “However, I always had encouragement from my parents to try to do new things, knowing it would be better to regret something than to not try.”

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Jan. 23 to Jan. 27: Mental Health Awareness Week

Jan. 23 to Jan. 27 is Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) — join us for a week full of events to learn about the mental health resources available at Algonquin College and reflect on your mental wellness. The Beacon: Health & Wellness Peer Support Space will be open to students for drop-in all week long from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and employees and learners are encouraged to take advantage of the week’s Mental Health Minutes with Health Services which cover everything from self-care to nutrition. Click this link to take a minute for your mental health next week.

The week’s halfway point, Jan. 25, will be marked with a free event from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Algonquin Commons Theatre presented by The Royal and DIFD (Do it for Daron) in partnership with the Algonquin Students’ Association. Register for the event here.

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AC students come together for Diwali festivities  

Students commune in the student commons in celebration of Diwali.

Students dance to classic Bollywood tunes in celebrations of Diwali.

The energy was abuzz at the Algonquin College Diwali Celebration on Oct. 20. Hosted by the Algonquin Students’ Association (SA), the event featured classic Bollywood tunes, delicious eats and henna tattooing courtesy of Henna by Shanna.

After many long years apart, students were welcomed together again for a fun-filled afternoon of dancing and singing to celebrate the special occasion.

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