Paul Kaita

Class of 2021
Added Mar 2022

Adventurous, Ambitious, Creative, Reliable, Supportive

I believe in the power of storytelling. It showcases our uniqueness in our everyday lives. Through stories, we can learn together, celebrate who we are, and change the world. I hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts, specialist in architectural studies and minor in visual studies. In 2024, I graduated with a Master of Education, Higher Education from OISE. I am currently a student affairs professional at the University of Toronto, leading project management and communications at the Innovation Hub.

Things I am proud of that you won’t see on my résumé:

My hyperrealistic portraiture drawing abilities
I flew from BC to Toronto to go outside my comfort zone to learn at U of T

A memory I made when I wasn’t studying/working:

The Innis Residence Council Iron Chef Competition with my friends
Winning the Iron Chef competition by crushing ramen — the secret ingredient — to make “ramen flour” and then used the ramen seasoning in the sauce.

“Thank you for applying but…”

Residence Don – I was disappointed because I envisioned myself being a Don during my undergrad. Looking back at this experience, it taught me that everything happens for a reason
Instead, I explored more opportunities, such as joining the UTSU as an Executive, organizing Orientation at the Daniels Faculty, and working at the Daniels Registrar

A few quirks that make me who I am:

I’m a colour palette creator
I’m a stationery collector
I’m a bubble tea fanatic

My theme song:

“Paradise” by Coldplay

Something I did to take care of myself:

Long walks along the Toronto Harbourfront
Watching the water
Listen to the birds

Dinosaurs on my to-do list:

Travel Europe and see my undergrad architectural readings come to life
Go bungee jumping
Solo travel through Asia and try all my favorite foods

A thing I debated doing but am glad I did:

Eat alone at a restaurant! I’m a foodie but was always so afraid of other people’s judgement. I learned to be comfortable in my own skin!
Explore things outside of my comfort zone

An obstacle I have overcome

I remember when I got my first “D” on an assignment in first-year and I was so scared. I remember when I was doing all the calculations to see the impact of this grade on my GPA. I realized the way I learned had to change to adapt to undergraduate study. For the course, I found a friend to study and collaborate with, and we found joy and fun in reviewing the content together. In that moment, I learned that I thrive when I’m collaborating with others. I like being able to be productive with others, while also having fun in the process.

A person I am grateful for during my undergraduate journey:

Brandon Liu – He was my orientation leader in first year, mentor on the ICSS, and friend who immediately gave the classic warm Innis welcome that made my undergraduate journey unforgettable. Brandon saw the potential in me before I even realized it, created space for me to celebrate and also learn from my mistakes, and supported me every step of the way. Thank you Brandon!

Advice you would give to your undergraduate self:

You don’t need to have everything figured out. I know that you are a planner and need to know the 20 steps ahead. It’s okay to not know and be just exploring your step 1. The step 1 can have learning moments that ground you in the present. Be excited in the now, live in the now, and the future you want will come your way!