Life.

Music, chess, community, Canadian winters, and one very large burger. I study computer science and pure mathematics at Waterloo, with a music minor, but a lot of life happens around the school part: a piano to practise on, friends to share a meal with, one more game of chess, and a reason to get outside even when it’s snowing. These are a few of the things that don’t fit neatly on a résumé.

A red pencil portrait of Shayan

Something to play

Piano is a different kind of practice: less proving, more listening. There’s a piano here for you, too.

Friends at Mel’s Diner

The Godfather, and five witnesses

Read the note

An unreasonable dinner at Mel’s, documented by very good friends.

A chess board at Hart House

Just one more game

Read the note

A chess board, a good room, and a reason to stay for another game.

A day at the Grange Festival

A day at the Grange

Read the note

An afternoon of activities, conversations, and volunteering in the middle of Toronto.

Showing up

Some commitments are small and recurring. I’m an active donor with Canadian Blood Services, and I took part in the 2024 Coldest Night of the Year walk in support of people facing hurt, hunger, and homelessness.

Different ways to give a little time, and to keep showing up for each other.

Coldest Night of the Year winter hat
A cold evening, a good reason.
A life not examined is not worth living.Socrates · Plato’s Apology