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Bissett Student Success Centre: 6136 University Avenue, Room 426 |
Phone: 902-494-3077 Email: advising@dal.ca |
Hours of Operation |
| Make an appointment online |
Getting to know our team at the Bissett Student Success Centre
Our staff at the Bissett Student Success Centre come from a variety of backgrounds – just like our students. When you make an appointment, you can request a specific advisor or we'll pair you with someone based on your program and year of study. We hope to see you soon!
Administration
Karen McCrank: Director of Student Success
I moved to Halifax with my husband and dog in December 2018 to serve as the Director of Careers after 14 years at the University of Toronto. I am grateful for the various roles I’ve held in Student Affairs, but am most passionate about the work I’ve been able to support in Career Services. When I was in high school, I had a guidance counsellor tell me I wouldn’t get in to university. It was the push I needed to believe in myself; at that moment I knew I wanted to someday be in a position to support people to achieve their goals in a way I hadn’t been.
Although I now have two degrees, many interests, work and life experiences, I didn’t always know exactly what direction my career would take. By following my curiosity, connecting with people who could guide me, and knowing my strengths, I have been fortunate to find roles doing what I’d wanted to since high school – support people in achieving their goals. I’m excited to be a part of Career Services at Dalhousie and we would love to help you with your own career questions.
Hobbies: travelling, hiking, biking, camping, enjoying good food & drink with friends and family
How I identify: wife, sister, daughter and aunt, white, cis-gender female, able-body
Clifton Strengths: Futuristic, Maximizer, Strategic, Ideation, Connectedness
Pronouns: she, her
Maedeh Karimi: Administrative Coordinator
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I moved to Canada in 2020 and started working at Dalhousie University in 2021. I have earned my EDI Certificate in 2022 and Adult Learning Fundamentals Certificate in 2023 from Dalhousie University. With a Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language and a decade of experience as a dedicated educator, my passion lies in supporting and guiding students towards success. I am committed to providing exceptional administrative support to ensure smooth operations and enhance the overall student experience. Fun Facts: I love dancing, traveling, and theatre How I identify: person of colour, woman, cisgender, able-bodied, daughter, sister Clifton Strengths: Harmony, Consistency, Developer, Empathy, Responsibility Pronouns: she, her, hers |
Career Services
Kaitlin Burek: Career Advisor
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What’s up?! My name is Kaitlin (she/her) and it is my job and my joy to be Dalhousie University’s Career Advisor. I am here to support all Dalhousie University and University of King’s College students as well as recent alumni (<2-years) with topics related to searching for jobs, identifying career opportunities, and making the school to work transition. Before this role, I spent the bulk of my career studying experiential learning in Nova Scotia and supporting undergraduate and graduate students within work-integrated learning programs. I completed my undergrad at Dalhousie University and continued on to a Master of Science degree, becoming certified as a Career Development Practitioner (CCDP) and Appreciative Advisor along the way. My professional, academic, and personal path has cemented my commitment to supporting students identify, celebrate, and leverage their skills! Cheering for you! Hobbies: skateboarding, antiquing, watching baseball (go Jays), and visiting farmers’ markets How I identify: partner, sister, daughter, supporter, and friend. White, cisgender female. Clifton Strengths: Relator, Discipline, Responsibility, Communication, Activator Pronouns: she, her |
Nia MacFarlane: Employer Engagement & Events Coordinator
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Nia MacFarlane: Employer Engagement and Events Coordinator Hailing from Halifax, I have lived in this beautiful city for most of my life. I moved to Antigonish to study at StFX University, and graduated in 2018 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Honours Leadership & Management. Since then, I've held a variety of roles within the higher-education sphere. I'm a published researcher with particular interest in storytelling and the lived experiences of people within equity deserving groups. Being able to connect folks with the resources they need to succeed is one of my passions, and I'm thrilled to be able to continue that with the Career Services team here at the BSSC. As Coordinator, Employer Engagement & Events, I hope to enrich our local and global workforces by connecting employers and candidates with their perfect matches. Opportunity awaits, and I'm delighted to be part of your journey. Fun Facts: I love travelling and lived in Spain for 6 months. Music is a huge part of my life and I enjoy singing and songwriting. I love organization and design - my dream would be to restore a beautiful old home. How I identify: Daughter, sister, auntie, partner and friend. Cis-gender female, white, able-bodied. Clifton Strengths: Achiever, Maximizer, Relator, Intellection, Positivity Pronouns: she, her |
Brooklyn Malone: Student Assistant - Employer Engagement & Events
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I was born and raised in Thunder Bay, Ontario and moved to Halifax in 2021. I have now lived in Halifax and attended Dalhousie for three years. I began my studies in the Bachelor of Management program but switched this year to the Recreation Management program. I made this choice because I love event planning and dream of becoming a municipal event planner as my career in the future. I felt the Recreation Management program better aligned with this goal and I am now learning how to best create events to support inclusivity and well-being. I am also VP Events for the Dalhousie Management Society and have found that role engaging and exciting. In my spare time I like to spend time with loved ones, go on long walks, and cloud watch! Tip for success: Step out of your comfort zone! Some of the most rewarding experiences I have had while at Dalhousie came from taking a risk! I encourage every student to introduce themselves to peers in their classes, join extracurriculars, and attend events, even if you won’t know anyone there! As students, we all have a shared experience and therefore can relate to each other in some way. If you’re nervous, some else is too. How I identify: White, cisgender, able-bodied, bisexual, settler, friend, and daughter Pronouns: she, her, hers |
Student Success Advisors
Kevin Chabot
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Kevin Chabot: Student Success AdvisorI’ve always loved movies and this passion for cinema has driven much of my academic and professional life. Originally from Mississauga, Ontario, I did my undergrad at Wilfrid Laurier University majoring in film studies and communications studies. I went on to pursue a Master’s degree in Film Studies at Carleton University and a PhD in Cinema Studies at the University of Toronto. A SSHRC Postdoctoral Fellowship brought me to Dalhousie in 2022 where I completed work on my first book which was published in October 2024. I’ve held many roles across four universities including teaching assistant, course instructor, adjunct professor, research administrator, administrative assistant, and writing advisor. Working directly with students and helping them achieve their goals has been a uniquely rewarding experience across my academic career. I am delighted to continue this work as an academic advisor with the Bissett Student Success Centre and serve the Dal student community! Fun Facts: I am also a film programmer for the Atlantic International Film Festival and the Hellifax Horror Fest (horror is a favourite genre of mine!) How I Identify: Brother, son, uncle, partner. Queer, cisgender man, white, able-bodied. Clifton Strengths: Learner, Empathy, Developer, Strategic, Achiever Pronouns: he, him |
Cass Duffenais
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Cass Duffenais: Student Success AdvisorI am originally from Newfoundland but grew up in Ontario. I found my way to Dalhousie in 2012 and completed my Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Sociology and Social Anthropology and minor in Management in 2016. Throughout my degree I held multiple campus jobs from being a tour guide to working in the student union building and loved every second of it. When I graduated, I decided working in higher education was the right choice for me, I love being on campus and feeling the energy that students bring. I worked in recruitment and admissions for a couple of years at Dalhousie before heading to work for the University of Alberta. That is when I decided to pursue my Master of Education in Post-Secondary Studies through Memorial University which I completed in Fall 2023. Becoming a student success advisor at Dalhousie truly feels like coming home and allows me to do what I love most, which is to help students. I encourage you all to ask questions, lots of them, ask for help and never give up. You have access to so many amazing supports and services as a student and we all want the same thing, which is for you to succeed! Fun Facts: I really enjoy exploring new hobbies. Some that have stuck around are kickboxing, axe throwing, rock climbing, and softball. Live music, concerts and festivals are how I fill my free time. My dog Miss Charlie is my best friend and sidekick! How I Identify: Qalipu Mi’kmaw, cisgender female, daughter, sister, able-bodied Clifton Strengths: Activator, Strategic, Arranger, Positivity, Self-Assurance Pronouns: she, her, hers |
Terra Duncan
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Terra Duncan: Student Success AdvisorAs the first member of my family to attend university and as someone who had to rely on student loans, I found the transition from high school to university challenging. When I needed help, I was never sure who to turn to. I longed for a friend who could help me identify my academic and extracurricular interests; someone who could connect me to helpful resources and inspire me to grow into the best possible version of myself. I became a Student Success Advisor so I could offer students the kind of support I wish I had. I want students to understand that anyone, from any walk of life, can achieve success in university through self-reflection, hard work, and tenacity. Three fun facts: I have visited 25 different countries (and counting)! Wonder Woman is my idol. I am writing a non-fiction book. How I identify: Sister, Aunt and Godmother of Indigenous, French-Canadian and Irish ancestry Clifton Strengths: Context, Intellection, Developer, Relator, Learner Pronouns: She, her, hers |
Hayley Gerogiannis
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Hayley Gerogiannis: Student Success AdvisorI started at Dalhousie University in 2012, right out of high school, trying to figure out what I wanted to do and who I wanted to be. After 3 years of taking a multitude of courses, I eventually found my way over to the School of Health and Human Performance. This is where I knew I belonged, and finally graduated with my BSc (Recreation) in 2018 and presently hold the title of Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Since graduating, I’ve held a variety of roles both internal and external to the University. However, once I returned in 2019, I knew I wasn’t leaving! My personal goal is to collaborate as a team in offering support that enhances one's overall quality of life… and what better place to do so than the Bissett Student Success Centre as a Student Success Advisor! Navigating your way into university can be many things (exciting, rocky, rewarding and nerve-racking) and I am here to support you and help you succeed! Fun Facts: I have been curling for 20 years; The Backstreet Boys > N’Sync; iced coffee is the superior drink. How I Identify: White, cis-gendered, able-bodied, queer woman, Maritimer, Wife, sister, daughter Clifton Strengths: Includer, Consistency, Harmony, Positivity, Relator Pronouns: she. her. hers. |
Sarah Ready
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Catherine Robertson
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Peer Advisors
Amy
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Hello! My name is Amy, and I am a Master of Arts (Social Anthropology) student here at Dal. Born and raised in southern Alberta, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology at the University of Lethbridge in 2023 before deciding to venture out to the east coast for the first time. I am a settler researcher who writes about Alberta’s ongoing opioid crisis, settler colonialism, care, and conceptions of belonging. Outside of my research, I have enjoyed working across academic, social service, non-profit, and municipal contexts, and am passionate about helping students celebrate their skills and supporting them in imaging awesome possibilities for their careers. In my spare time I love to read, practice yoga, sing and play guitar, and—when we are reunited in Alberta—ride my motorcycle. I am thrilled to be joining the Student Success team for the 2024/2025 academic year and look forward to connecting with the Dalhousie and King’s campus community! Tip for success: It can be daunting, but when possible, take the time to try new things! There is so much more to get out of university than a GPA, and you never know how one experience might snowball into another exciting opportunity down the road. Pronouns: She/her/hers |
Jessica
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I was born in Germany and moved to Nova Scotia in 2008, when I was 6 years old. I am a fifth-year student completing my Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Neuroscience and International Development Studies with a Certificate in Intercultural Communications and a Certificate in Medical Humanities. My journey at Dalhousie has been an eventful one to say the least, having switched my major in second year and completing an exchange semester abroad, when I realized I wanted to pursue a career in global healthcare. Throughout my studies, I have been involved in a variety of societies, including the Neuroscience Society, Global Brigades, and Greater Love. Additionally, I am one of the external ambassadors for the Canadian Undergraduate Conference on Healthcare, and volunteer for the Maritime Brain Tissue Bank. Through the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, the Department of Psychiatry, and the School of Physiotherapy, I have had the opportunity to be involved in research, including substance use and addictions, mental health, motor imagery studies. With my various experiences at Dalhousie, I can understand the struggles that many students go through and hope to support them in achieving their goals. In my free time, you can find me hiking, at the beach, working out, going to cafés or museums, listening to music, or spending time with my friends. Tip for success: Push yourself to try new things and make connections – it’s one of the best ways to get the most out of your time here! Building a community is key, so get involved both on and off campus. Whether it’s joining student clubs, volunteering, or finding other activities, you’ll not only meet awesome people but also gain experiences that will help you grow. Don’t be afraid to connect with your professors too, because asking for help can make a huge difference in your classes. It might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but stepping out of your comfort zone will build your confidence, expand your opportunities, and help you achieve your goals!ow How I identify: immigrant, cisgender, white, able-bodied, friend, daughter Pronouns: she, her, hers |
Loveth
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Hello! I’m thrilled to serve as a Peer Career Advisor at the Bissett Student Success Centre. Originally from a vibrant hometown in Nigeria, I began my journey at Dalhousie University in the Master of Laws (LLM) program, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Law, specializing in Climate Finance, Environmental Law, Energy, and Natural Resources. As an international student, I understand the unique challenges of moving to a new country and school. I’m passionate about education and student support, having previously worked as a research assistant and tutor, where I discovered my love for helping students succeed. In my role as a Peer Career Advisor, I offer guidance and support to ensure success and well-being. I’m excited to work with you on your journey at Dalhousie University—I’m here to help! How I Identify: Female, Black-African, and Avid Researcher. Pronouns: She/Her. Tips for Success: Prioritize self-care, stay organized, and dream big! |
Brooke
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Hailing from London, Ontario, I began my journey at Dalhousie University in 2021. I am in my fourth year of a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Neuroscience, with a Minor in Law, Justice and Society, and a Certificate in Science Leadership and Communication. Although moving far away from my hometown was scary, my experience at Dalhousie has shaped me into the person I am today, and I would make the same decision one hundred times over. During my time at Dalhousie, I have been involved in research through the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, the School of Physiotherapy, and the Department of Psychiatry. I am currently the President of the Dalhousie Science Society, the Vice President of the Dalhousie Breast Cancer Awareness Society, and hold other roles on the Undergraduate Neuroscience Society and the DISP Mentorship Committee. I am also an active volunteer with the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia and Let’s Talk Science Dalhousie. In my free time, you can find me exploring the outdoors, finding new recipes, listening to country music, or thrifting. Tip for Success: Get involved! The best way to meet new people, learn new things, and gain new perspectives is to become involved in the Dalhousie or greater community. Although it can be nerve-wracking to get involved in a new society or reach out about a volunteer opportunity, it can also end up being one of the most formative experiences of your university career. How I Identify: cisgender, invisibly disabled, white, daughter, friend, student Pronouns: she, her, hers |
