Hi, I’m Tristan (he/him), one of the Fresh Start Program Coordinators at the University of Alberta. I’ve been helping students succeed academically since 2012, drawing on 12 years of experience teaching ESL in China, Taiwan, Australia, and Canada. 

Originally from New Zealand, I bring a wholistic approach to supporting students in identifying their strengths, setting goals, and adapting to challenges.

I’ve developed learning activities on time management, accountability, effective study strategies and motivation. Our program collaborates with campus teams like Wellness Supports, Career Services, Faculty advisors and Clinical and Counselling Services. The most rewarding part of my role is seeing students transform and hearing how much the program has meant to them.

Outside of work, I’m either playing with my two boys, listening to a new audiobook, or cleaning something.

Kayleen (she/her) is a Fresh Start Coordinator with over four years of experience at the Academic Success Centre. She is passionate about supporting students in achieving their academic goals.

A proud graduate of the University of Alberta, Kayleen holds a Bachelor of Education, which forms the foundation of her work in helping students succeed. She also has a diploma in Makeup for Film and Television and has contributed her skills to productions at the Citadel Theatre.

In her free time, Kayleen enjoys playing video games, keeping up with her energetic 7-year-old, and spending time with her partner.

Dana Kanerva (she/her) is the Program Assistant for Learning Strategies within the Dean of Students Office at the University of Alberta. 

Dana completed her Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in History at the U of A in 2019 and completed a Master of Arts, with a focus on Environmental History, at Laurentian University in 2020. 

Dana loved her time at the university and appreciates that her position with Learning Strategies allows her to help current students enjoy their time at the U of A. 

In her spare time, Dana enjoys spending time with her dog, Hugo, and working on her many creative projects, such as painting or renovating.