Outstanding Scholar, Ava Mammarella, hosted a clinical sale to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society in her previous role of Nursing Society philanthropy chair (SUBMITTED BY AVA MAMMARELLA/University of Windsor)
By Sara Meikle
When third-year nursing student Ava Mammarella reflects on her UWindsor experience, a theme comes to mind: growth.
From a first-year student discovering her path in health care to a mentor guiding others through the same transition, her journey through the Outstanding Scholars program highlights the transformative power of mentorship.
Mammarella says she has been drawn to medicine for as long as she can remember.
“I was that kid with the toy stethoscope, checking everyone’s heartbeat,” she says.
UWindsor’s nursing program drew her in for its hands-on learning and early clinical experience, which allowed her to build practical skills from the start. The Outstanding Scholars program complemented that approach by giving her meaningful research opportunities.
In her first year, she presented at the UWill Discover Conference — something she never imagined doing so soon.
“Having that kind of opportunity right away was amazing,” she says. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone.”
That drive to push her limits shows up in small ways too.
She’s a regular at the exercise-bike desks at Leddy Library, often pedaling while studying.
“I put my all into everything I do, so if you’re on a bike next to me I will be trying to go faster than you,” she jokes.
The Outstanding Scholars program provided a structure that helped her keep moving.
Once a mentee herself, Mammarella now leads as peer mentorship coordinator for the Outstanding Scholars program. She draws on her own experiences to improve training and resources for mentors, helping new students feel supported as they adjust to university life.
“I see myself in a lot of the first-year students,” she says. “I know how overwhelming it can be, and I want to make sure they have the guidance that made such a difference for me.”
Her interest in mentorship even led her to interview Margo Murray, author of Beyond the Myths and Magic of Mentoring, for the UWill Discover podcast.
“Talking to her showed me mentorship never really ends,” she says. “There will always be transitions where I’ll need a mentor or be one, and I hope to keep growing in both roles.”
Listen to the podcast episode "Beyond the Myths and Magic of Mentoring" with Margo Murray - UWill Discover | Podcast on Spotify
As she looks ahead to her future in nursing, Mammarella says her time at UWindsor has shaped her into a more confident student and a more intentional mentor.
She credits the Outstanding Scholars program with helping her grow as a student, leader and future nurse.
“It’s about showing up, taking every opportunity and using everything UWindsor has to offer,” she says. “That’s where you really find your path.”
This article is part of a series celebrating Outstanding Scholars — exceptional students making an impact through research and creative work across campus.