Who I am today

I’m Bilun Naz Böke — an education researcher and founder of Here for Students.
My work focuses on helping university students manage stress, build resilience, and succeed through life transitions — a commitment I’ve pursued for over a decade through research, teaching, and program development.

I’ve completed undergraduate studies in Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Toronto and Master’s and PhD in Educational Psychology at McGill University. My doctoral research examined how students adapt and maintain well-being throughout their studies. I’ve published in peer-reviewed journals, presented internationally on student well-being, and co-developed evidence-based programs now used in universities in Canada and abroad.

Through my roles as researcher, educator, and mentor, one question continues to guide my work:
How can I better support students as they navigate such a unique and formative stage of life?

My Story

Growing up between cultures

Growing up as a third-culture kid in the Middle East, I moved through international schools, meeting new people, adjusting to new routines, and finding my place in each classroom. Surrounded by peers from around the world, I discovered the richness of cultural diversity and the many ways people learn and grow. These early experiences sparked a lasting curiosity about learning and resilience, one that informed my eventual career path.

Arriving in Canada

In 2008, I came to Canada as an international student to pursue an Honours B.Sc. in Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Toronto. Being away from family and adjusting to a new country and academic system brought unique challenges, and showed me the huge need for and value of effective mentorship in helping students navigate this unique life stage.

Four people standing together in a parking lot, with cars and trees in the background. It appears to be a family or group preparing for travel, with luggage and backpacks in front.
A young woman sitting on a bed in a dorm room with wooden furniture, a desk lamp, and a window with floral curtains.

Building my expertise

I continued my studies with a Master’s and PhD in Educational Psychology at McGill University. Over the years, I’ve led research projects, developed programs, taught courses, and mentored students. These experiences deepened my expertise and reinforced the transformative role of mentorship both in shaping my own journey and in supporting others along theirs.

A young woman holding a diploma standing with three older adults outdoors at night, celebrating her graduation.
Three women celebrating graduation. One woman in the center receives a bouquet of flowers, smiling, with a gold and black banner reading 'Congratulations PhD' and gold balloons in the background.

Why Here for Students

I founded Here for Students to bring everything full circle — combining my academic expertise with lived understanding and drive to make a positive difference for students, the way my mentors have done for me.

If you’re seeking informed, research-backed mentorship that understands both the science and the human side of student life,

I’m here for you.

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