Orientation Schedule
Queen's Law Orientation 2025 is set to kick off the afternoon of September 1st, 2024 and will conclude the evening of September 4th. All new incoming students, including both first-years and upper-years, are encouraged to participate.
Our Orientation Week programming will be held in person, we are very excited to meet everyone and welcome you all on campus! This week will be filled with engaging programming that will introduce you to your peers, upper-year mentors, professors, and life as a Queen’s Law student.
This page is being routinely updated with new information regarding Orientation Week 2025, so be sure to check back frequently!
Our Valued 2025 Sponsors
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Orientation Leaders
Chris Zhang
Hi everyone! My name is Chris. I'm a U of T grad and current 2L at Queen's Law. My passions range from orcas, to planes, to public international law. As a former lifeguard I can assure you there is no sink or swim culture at Queen's. I am eager to meet you all and hope you have a great time getting settled in!
John Dief
Hi, I’m John Dief, a 2L student. I completed my undergraduate degree in Criminology at York University and am now interested in pursuing a career in family law, trusts and estates, and litigation. Outside school, you will often find me in the gym, gardening during the summer, or cooking. I know how difficult 1L can be, and I am excited to offer whatever support I can.
Megan Coulter
Hey, I’m Megan Coulter, an incoming 2L and am excited to welcome new students as an Orientation Leader! During 1L, I contributed to the Queen’s Law Journal as a Volunteer Editor and led a Pro Bono Students Canada (PBSC) project. Now I serve as PBSC’s Program Coordinator, I am passionate about helping others become involved outside the classroom and is eager to help incoming 1Ls feel at home at Queen’s Law.
Bill Jennings
Hello! I’m Bill, a 2L student in the BCOM/JD program, and am incredibly excited to be one of your Orientation Leaders! A little about me, I participated in the Queen’s IP Law Club, played soccer with a Queen’s Law Intramural Team, and am a regular at the Queen’s Tabletop Games Club (PLEASE JOIN US!). This past summer, I studied international law in Europe, did legal research on AI, and have been relaxing in Vancouver! You will hear this a lot, but it is true that what makes Queen’s Law special is its community. Reach out to friends, upper years, or professors. We are all here to support one another.
Sam Bleiwas
Hey 1Ls! My name is Sam and I'm so excited to welcome you to the Queen's Law community! There are so many amazing things about Queen's Law, but my favourite is all the amazing people you will meet! I can't wait to see everyone at orientation!
Kieffer Beard
Hi, I’m Kieffer and I’m a 2L at Queen’s Law. I completed an Honours BBA at Wilfrid Laurier with a minor in economics and a certificate in global crime and justice. Before law school, I worked in forensics at MNP, supporting litigation and fraud investigations. At Queen’s, I took part in the International Environmental Law Program, volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada, and hosted a Pro Bono Radio episode. This year, I’ll be in the Prison Law Clinic. Outside of school, I enjoy playing hockey, golf, and tennis.
Matthew Teng
Hi! I’m a 2L at Queen’s Law with a background in health sciences. Outside of class, I stay involved through the Queen’s Asian Law Student Association and the Tortfeasors club. I’m excited to welcome you to Queen’s!
Serina Som
Hey! My name is Serina and I’m a 2L at Queen’s Law. I’m originally from Vancouver and completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at UBC. I love fashion, and in my spare time I enjoy pottery, pilates, and spending time with my dog Mumu. At Queen’s, I’m involved in the Queen’s Asian Law Students Association and serve on the 2L LSS Council. Feel free to stop me anytime and say hi!
Melisa Schupp
Hey! I’m Mel, a 2L student who remembers exactly what it felt like to be in your shoes not that long ago. I stayed busy in 1L through various clubs and student leadership roles, and I’m excited to be doing more this year. I’m always happy to chat, answer questions, or help you find the best coffee spots. Starting law school can be overwhelming, so I’m glad to be part of the team that helps make it easier. Looking forward to meeting you!
Will Werstiuk
Hi Everyone! My name is Will, and I am excited to welcome you to Queens Law as one of your orientation leaders. I'm a 3L who spent this past summer at a litigation boutique in Toronto and previously worked at the Queens Business Law Clinic. After 1L, I participated in the Queens international business law program in Berlin , where I studied international trade law and arbitration. I'm happy to chat about clinics, the summer program, and what first year is like. I look forward to meeting you all!
Sophie Goodarzi
Hi! I’m Sophie, a 2L, and I’m excited to be one of your Orientation Leaders this year. I studied Criminology and Political Science at the University of Toronto, and I’m passionate about family law. During 1L, I was a Pro Bono Students Canada volunteer and a regular at the Queen’s Law Tabletop Games Club (join us!). Law school can feel surreal at first, but remember, you’re not alone! I’m always happy to chat.
Hansoo Shin
Hello guys! My name is Hansoo Shin and I am excited to be your orientation leader! I completed my HBsc in psychology and biology at the University of Toronto. During my 1L, I was involved in intramural sports with fellow law students. My teammates became my mentors and best friends. I strongly recommend signing up for extracurriculars that help you get closer with fellow law students and help de-stress. If you are interested in criminal law or need help with 1L, feel free to reach me. I am easily reachable! See you guys around!
Stella Danakas
Hi! My name is Stella Danakas and I am a 2L at Queen's Law. Before law school, I studied Literature and Drama at the University of Toronto and was actively involved in creative writing and theatre-related extracurriculars. At Queen's, I have participated in several activities, including serving as Equity Chair for Queen's Women and Law and working as a community outreach volunteer for the Queen's Family Law Clinic, where I will be a student caseworker this coming year. Outside of law school, I enjoy going to Juniper Cafe, visiting our local bookstores, and trying different restaurants around Kingston.
Tori Reed
Tori Reed (2L) graduated from Vancouver Island University with a BA Majoring in criminology with a minor in French. Prior to coming to Queens Law, she worked as a Bilingual Court Clerk in Victoria, BC. During her first year, she was elected 1L faculty board rep. She is currently vice president of the Criminal Law Club, a research assistant for Professor Lisa Kerr, and an SGPS Student Advisor. Tori hopes to work as a Crown after graduation.
Chloe Asselstine
Hi, I’m Chloe and I’m a 2L at Queen’s Law. I studied commerce and health sciences at McMaster and worked in compliance and investment banking before law school. In 1L, I did the first-year moot, joined clubs like the Health Law Club, and was the 1L Rep for the Ski & Snowboard Club. This summer, I took part in the Queen’s International Law Program in Berlin. I’m now VP of the Ski & Snowboard Club and always happy to chat about getting involved, international and business law, or navigating 1L!
Kate Lam
Hi, I’m Kate, a 2L at Queen’s Law from Toronto. I studied commerce at UBC and worked as a tech consultant before switching to law. At Queen’s, I’m an executive with the Health Law Club and a 1L tutor. This summer, I worked at Mintz LLP in Toronto and spent time visiting friends in Vancouver and Houston. Outside of school, I love matcha, hot pilates, and cooking with friends.
Helia Moghaddam
Hi, I’m Helia and I’m a 2L at Queen’s Law. I completed my Honours English Language & Literature degree at UBC in 2024. At Queen’s, I’ve loved connecting with classmates, mooting, and starting the Iranian Law Students Association. With a background in career advising, I’m passionate about supporting students in their academic and professional journeys. As an Orientation Leader, I’m excited to help you feel confident, connected, and supported from day one.
Caroline Sada
Hey there! My name's Caroline and I'm an incoming 2L originally from Thunder Bay. Throughout my time in law school so far, I've been involved in the Labour Journal, did a few of the 1L moots, and worked at Queen's Legal Aid for this past summer. My favourite classes during 1L were Public Law and Property. My hobbies include running fast and climbing walls. Let me know if you enjoy escaping from your responsibilities in a similar manner.
Georgia Van Louwe
Hey Class of 2028! Congrats on picking Queens, you’re going to love it here! There are so many amazing clubs, events, and people to get to know, so get out there and try everything! Can’t wait to see you around!
Scotty Sullivan
I'm a second-year student at Queen’s Law. I completed an Honours BA in Criminal Justice at Nipissing University with a minor in Philosophy, and before coming to law school, I worked in the mining industry. During my first year at Queen’s, I stayed active by participating in mooting, pro bono initiatives, and a variety of other extracurriculars. Outside of school, I love working out, running, playing basketball, and playing video games. I'm excited to help welcome new students and share what makes Queen’s Law such a great place to be!
Noah Drees
I'm Noah and I'm a 2L. In 1L my favourite course was contracts, I was involved in the Canadian Labour and Employment Law Journal, and I also got the chance to moot. My hobbies include sports such as soccer and football and I'm also a fan of musical theatre. Super excited to meet you and answer any questions you might have!
Mark Buchanan
Hailing all the way from northern BC, Mark completed a BSc in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and a BEd in Secondary School Education before coming to Queen's Law where he is currently a 2L student. Highlights of his Queen's Law experience so far include participating in the 2025 Law Games in Halifax, successfully completing the Queen's International Law program this summer, the annual ski trip to Mont Sutton in Quebec, and of course making many great friends. Mark is interested in employment, administrative, and intellectual property law and is eager to learn more about these fields this year at Queen's. In his spare time, you can find Mark playing team sports, catching up on readings he's put off, and thinking about snowboarding.
Amy Zhou
Hi! I’m Amy, a 2L and one of your Orientation Leaders. I studied accounting at Wilfrid Laurier but am passionate about criminal and family law. Last summer, I worked at the Queen’s Family Law Clinic and will return as a student caseworker at Queen’s Legal Aid. In 1L, I volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada, edited for the Canadian Labour & Employment Law Journal, served as Equity Chair for Queen’s Women and Law, and joined the Tabletop Games Club. Outside of school, you’ll find me at Pole Fitness Kingston attempting new spins. I’m an open book, feel free to reach out!
Jacob Solomon
Hi, I’m Jacob! I’m going into my 3L year and playing for the Queen’s Law hockey team, along with other clubs that help me stay active. I’ve enjoyed all the opportunities law school offers to be social, and I take every chance to build connections and have a good time when my head isn’t in the books. I also make sure to hit the gym regularly to stay sharp and take a nice break between long study hours.
Jillian Nelligan
My name is Jillian and I'm an incoming 2L student! I'm an avid sports fan, go Leafs go, and have spent most of this summer golfing and bartending.
Megan Tindale
Hi, I’m Megan, and I’m about to start my second year. Before law school, I studied Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the University of Guelph, and I was so happy to find that Queen’s has the same kind of friendly, tight-knit community that I loved at Guelph. During my first year at Queen’s, I joined the Criminal Law and International Law clubs, and I spent my summer working at Queen’s Legal Aid. Outside of school, I enjoy running, cooking, and hanging out with friends.
Nicole Berezin
Hi, I’m Nicole and I’m an incoming 2L at Queen’s Law. I recently completed my undergraduate degree here at Queen’s. In 1L, I was involved with the Women and the Law Club and the Fashion & Retail Law Society. I’m excited to meet the incoming class, share my experiences, and get to know everyone!
Liam Jugoon
Hi, I’m Liam, a 2L at Queen’s Law with a background in science and entrepreneurship. I have a strong interest in business law and am always up for a good conversation about it. When I’m not buried in casebooks, you’ll probably find me paddling across the lake or searching for the city’s best cappuccino.
Sierra Wild
Hi, I’m Sierra, a Queen’s alum with a BAH in Political Studies and a Certificate in Law, now entering my second year as a JD student. In 1L, I volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada and worked as a Research Assistant to Professor Nicholas Lamp. I have experience mentoring first-year undergraduates and volunteering in the Kingston community, and I’m excited to help make your transition to Queen’s as enjoyable as possible!
Sydney Turack
Hey 1Ls, welcome to Queen's Law! My name is Syd, and I'm heading into 2L. I did my undergrad at University of Guelph, where I studied neuroscience. Going from science to law was a big change, but the incredible QL community was so supportive in helping with the transition! Since starting at Queen’s, I’ve loved being involved in everything from mooting to student government. I can't wait to meet you all, answer any questions, and help you feel at home!
Nick Snow
Hi guys, I’m Nick! I'm from Toronto, did my undergrad here in Kingston in the Queen's Commerce program, and am now heading into my 2L year. I’m involved in several extracurriculars this year, including the Corporate Law Club and 2L student council. In 1L, I also served as a volunteer with Pro Bono Students Canada and Queen's Legal Aid. If you have any questions about school, campus, or my experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help and excited to make your orientation a great start to the year!
Mey Westlake
Hi! I’m Mey “Shmonkey” Westlake, a second-year JD student involved in the Women in Law group and the Animal Law Club. Outside of class, I love to cook, ski (ask me about the Queen’s Law ski trip) and travel. I’m excited to meet our incoming class and help introduce you to Queen’s Law.
Gaby Cianfarani
Hi, I’m Gabby and I’m an incoming 2L at Queen’s Law. Prior to Queen’s, I completed my undergraduate degree at Western with a specialization in media and communications. I spent my 1L on the Queen’s Women & Law Club as part of the Academics Team. I’m excited to meet our incoming class and help make orientation week a memorable experience for everyone!
Erik Mayer
Erik is a 2L at Queen’s Law. He earned an Honours BSc in Life Sciences from McMaster University. This past summer, he worked as a caseworker at the Queen’s Business Law Clinic, providing pro bono legal services to small businesses and start-ups. He will return to the clinic this year as a group leader. At Queen’s Law, Erik has participated in two moots, volunteered with the Queen’s Law Journal, and served as an executive member of the IP Law Club and Corporate Law Club, as well as a contributing member of the Conflict Analytics Lab. Outside of law school, he enjoys golf, basketball, and producing music.
Isabel Fuentes
Hi 1Ls, congratulations on choosing Queen’s! By far the best part of Queen’s Law is the community we have here, and I’m excited for you all to experience our social culture of mutual support!
Jalen Coutinho
Hi everyone! I’m Jalen, a 2L at Queen’s Law and excited to be your Orientation Leader. I studied history and education at York, where I also completed a master’s, and worked briefly as a high school teacher before law school. In 1L, I volunteered as an editor for the Queen’s Law Journal and tried out for the Hicks Morley Moot, both great learning experiences. This summer, I joined the International Law Program, traveling and meeting incredible mentors. Outside of school, I enjoy music, reading, and cooking. I’m here to help, so feel free to reach out anytime!