International Student Success Peer Mentor Program
Mission
The International Student Success Peer Mentor program aims to assist new international students to make a successful academic adjustment to Syracuse University and increase the engagement and academic achievement of international students.
Strategies
- Demonstrate to new students how to utilize academic resources and opportunities
- Help new students analyze the college’s academic requirements and expectations
- Develop leadership skills and professionalism of peer mentors
We match current students with incoming students to create a supportive community. The program features a syllabus outlining weekly learning goals for mentors and mentees. Peer Mentors are selected through an application and interview process based on a list of selection criteria in the early Spring semester. This International Student Success Peer Mentor Program serves as a valuable opportunity not only for new students but to mentors who seek to develop leadership skills and grow professionally.
Impact on International Students
- Students actively engaged in mentor’s guidance receive higher GPAs. Our research findings present the comparison.
- Fall 2023: GPA 3.42 vs. 2.88
- Fall 2022: GPA 3.34 vs. 3.07
- Fall 2021: GPA 3.43 vs. 2.93
- 100 percent of students engaged in mentor guidance are satisfied or extremely satisfied with mentor support.
- Testimonials from new international students
- “Without my mentor, I would drop out of school in the middle of the first semester”.
- “My mentor is the first person I want to ask for help if I meet any challenge.”
- “My mentor led me to the area of biology research.”
- “I benefited so much from my mentor. That is why I want to become a mentor, too, to help others.”
Mentor Responsibilities
It is estimated that each mentor may devote two to three hours per week to the mentoring program.
- Meet with mentees as one group one hour per week for 13 weeks
- Respond to mentee emails/phone calls/texts within 24 hours of receiving them
- Attend at least one on-campus and one off-campus event with mentees as one group
- Attend the new international student welcome event in August
- Write two reflection journals and submit them via Blackboard
- Attend mentor training in April and monthly mentor meetings during the summer and fall semester
- Contact mentees starting in May for informal communication
Mentor Selection Criteria
- Be a full-time undergraduate degree-seeking student in high academic standing (rising sophomore, junior, and senior)
- Cumulative GPA: 3.0
- Be able to commit to a one-semester appointment (Fall)
- Excellent English verbal and written communication skills
- Have great interpersonal and intercultural skills
- Have the ability to empower others
- Know the campus and community
- Meet all program time commitments
Benefits of Being a Peer Mentor
- Receive one CAS 270 credit in the Fall semester (within 19 credits)
- Receive a LinkedIn Peer Mentor Award badge
- Receive a graduation medallion
- Earn 45 volunteer/community engagement hours
- Receive a recommendation to participate in the A&S and Maxwell career immersion programs (enhance your application but does not guarantee a spot)
- Have an opportunity to receive a letter of reference/recommendation for a job and/or graduate program
- Gain competencies specified by Syracuse University: Communication Skills, Critical and Creative Thinking and Ethics, Integrity, and Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
- Develop professional skills that can be applied to future career and educational endeavors: Leadership, professionalism, collaboration, accountability, adaptability, communication, conflict management, time management, problem-solving and initiative.
- Engage in intercultural experiences and strengthen cross-cultural communication skills
- Contribute to internationalizing and diversifying our campus and community
- Developing long-lasting friendships with peers from all around the world
Apply
- Application for 2025-2026 is now available at https://syr.joinhandshake.com/emp/jobs/9653192
- Two info sessions about the Peer Mentor program will be hosted on Feb. 14 (Friday) and Feb. 28 (Friday) at 3pm. Join Zoom via ID: 767-008-1875
- The application deadline is March 15, 2025. The application form takes you less than 10 minutes.
- Successful applicants will be contacted by March 17 for interview.
Final selections will be made by April 10. - Mentor training (mandatory) will be conducted from the afternoon of April 25 to April 27 at an off-site SU property.
Listen to what our current peer mentors said about the experience
- “…have learned a lot about time management and organization through this.”
- “…helped me also expand my communication skills which can be very helpful in my future classes and life endeavors…”
- “…communication skills and patience are involved in the process.”
- “It strengthens my goal of becoming a professional public relations practitioner in the future. through the peer mentor program. I have confidence in communicating with people using good strategies and skills.”
- “I have learned a lot about time management and organization through this…”
- “…these experiences are extremely helpful for my future career or even the rest of my life when dealing with similar things. I can bring those skills to my working experiences as well.”
- “I can definitely feel a sense of achievement and fulfillment from my bottom of heart.”
- “…improves my communication skills and helps me to be a better multitasking person.”
- “I have not only exercised my communication skills but also established a professional network with many employees.”
Contact
Ling Gao LeBeau, Ph.D.
Director of International Student Success
315-443-2970
lglebeau@syr.edu
300 Hall of Languages
Outstanding Peer Mentors
Three of the 12 2024 Syracuse University Scholars have served as Peer Mentors for international students. They are: Marwa Abedrabbah, Mitchell Mazza, and Matthew Snyder. Read their story.
Meet the Mentors
2025-2026 Mentors
Aakash Pawar
Class: 2028
Major: B.S. International Relations
Hometown: Pune, India
Languages: English, Marathi, Hindi
Contact: aapawar@syr.edu
Bio: Hello, and congratulations on your matriculation into Syracuse University! My name is Aakash and I am a rising Sophomore, majoring in B.S. International Relations (and thinking of taking a minor in Applied Data Analytics!). I am a member of the Renée Crown University Honours Program and also serve as an FYS 101 Peer Leader for the Fall 2025 semester. Transitioning to college in a new country can be challenging, and that's what I want to help you all with! I'm here to support you for the first semester, to answer questions (or direct you to someone who can), and be a friend you can count on. I cannot wait to get to know you all!
Advita Karnad
Class: 2028
Major: Computer Science and Economics
Contact: akarnad@syr.edu
Bio:Hello and welcome to your home-away-from-home at Syracuse! My name is Advita, and I am from India. I am a sophomore double-majoring in Computer Science and Economics in the Honors program. On campus, I am primarily involved in Slice Consulting, a selective student club that enables me to work on a variety of pro-bono projects with actual organizations. At Slice, I will be a junior project manager in the fall! Additionally, I will be a First Year Seminar (FYS) peer leader, which means that some of you may meet me during your weekly FYS meetings. I am so excited for you all to experience life at SU (especially the gorgeous lakes and winter snow). I look forward to being a peer mentor as you each navigate this new chapter of your lives. See you soon!
Alexandra Volo
Class: 2027
Hometown: Utica, N.Y
Major: Biology (pre-med track)
Contact: aivolo@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and congrats on your commitment to Syracuse University! My name is Alex and I am a junior studying Biology on the pre-medical track. I am a part of the J.Q.A.S, Black Pre-Medical Society, and a director of P.L.T.L for Biology. I love everything about Syracuse University, and I am excited to provide you with an easy transition from high school life to college life. I am so excited to meet you all!
Alice Sun
Class: 2027
Major: Economics, International Relations
Hometown: Beijing, China
Languages: Chinese (Mandarin), English
Contact: ysun183@syr.edu
Bio: Hello guys, welcome to Syracuse! My name is Alice, and I’m a rising junior double majoring in Economics and International Relations. I’m thrilled to be one of your peer mentors and will be here to support you both academically and socially throughout your time at SU. Syracuse has so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you make the most of your experience here. I can’t wait to meet all of you in August — until then, I hope you’re enjoying your summer and getting excited for the journey ahead!
Alisa Khomutetsky
Class: 2028
Major: Forensic Science and Biology
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Languages: English, Russian
Contact: akkhomut@syr.edu
Bio: Hello, and welcome to Syracuse University! My name is Alisa Khomutetsky and I am a rising Sophomore majoring in Forensic Science and Biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. On campus I am involved with a few things such as working at The Barnes Center, being an FYS peer leader and being on the executive board for CHAARG - a women's workout organization. I enjoy hanging out with friends, playing volleyball, and traveling. I am super excited to be a peer mentor and to get to know all of you! Congratulations on your acceptance to Syracuse, I can't wait to meet you all in the Fall!
Ashley Kim
Class: 2027
Major: Economics
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Languages: Korean, English, Japanese (conversational)
Contact: jkim333@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and welcome to Syracuse University! My name is Ashley Kim. I am a rising junior from Seoul, South Korea, studying Economics at the College of Arts and Sciences. I have also spent some time living in Tokyo, Japan as a college student at Sophia University. I am excited to meet you all and guide you through your transition to Syracuse. Go Orange!
Barbara Recinos
Majors: Biochemistry and International Relations
Languages: English and Spanish
Contact: bmrecino@syr.edu
Bio: Hello everyone! My name is Barbara and I’m planning to double major in Biochemistry and IR, with a strong interest in public health. I currently serve as the RSO Liaison Chair for the Latiné Honors Society at Syracuse University, where I help connect our organization with other student groups on campus. I also serve as the Director of International Student Affairs and am involved in research on transcriptional anthropology. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering with international students and supporting community-based initiatives. I’m so excited to be a Peer Mentor this year and can’t wait to meet all of you!
Beatrix Talbott
Pronouns: She/her
Class: 2027
Major: Design Studies
Minor: Art History
Hometown: Saint Louis, Missouri
Contact: mptalbot@syr.edu
Bio: Hello, my name is Beatrix and I am so excited to welcome you to Syracuse! I cannot wait to meet all of you soon. A little bit about me: I like going to art museums, hanging out with friends, and getting involved in campus activities. I am a Chancellor's Scholar, I have an on-campus job, and I am a part of University Union. I am happy to help answer any questions you may have before the school year begins and I hope you have a great first semester at Syracuse.
Brenna McNamara
Pronouns: She/Her
Class of 2026
Hometown: Amsterdam NY
Contact: bmcnam01@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and welcome to Syracuse University! My name is Brenna McNamara, I’m a rising senior majoring in Forensic Science and Psychology with a minor in Computer Science. Over time, I’ve become quite involved on campus. To name a couple - I currently hold a position on the E-Board for SU Pride Union and host my own radio show every week on WERW! I’m excited to be back on campus in the fall to serve as a peer mentor, highlighting all the things Syracuse has to offer and making new student transitions as easy as possible!
Britt Vanlerberghe
Class: 2026
Major: Neuroscience and Psychology
Contact: bgvanler@syr.edu
Bio: Hello! Congratulations on your acceptance to Syracuse! My name is Britt Vanlerberghe and I am a rising senior. I am a neuroscience and psychology major, while following the pre-medical track. I’m the president of the water polo team, so staying active is a big hobby of mine! I also do research on campus, am a member of the Brain Exercise Initiative, and participate in a lot of volunteering around Syracuse. I have had the best 3 years at Syracuse so far so I can’t wait to show you all my favorite parts and hope to give you the same experience as me!
Cindy Lin
Class: 2027
Major: Finance
Minor: Economics
Hometown: New York City, New York
Contact: clin89@syr.edu
Bio: Hi! Congratulations on committing to Syracuse University! My name is Cindy Lin, and I’m a rising junior in the Whitman School of Management studying Finance with a minor in Economics. I’m also a member of the sorority Kappa Phi Lambda. In my free time, I love exploring new places, watching shows, and cooking. Syracuse has given me so many amazing experiences, and I’m excited to help you find your own path here. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to be a Peer Mentor this year and can’t wait to meet you!
Dylan Tehrani
Class: 2027
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Vernon Hills, Illinois
Contact: datehran@syr.edu
Bio: Hello, and congratulations on your commitment to Syracuse University! My name is Dylan Tehrani, and I'm a rising junior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. I am currently a part of a psychology research lab, a program called Challah for Hunger through Syracuse's Hillel, and have two jobs on campus. I am excited to serve as a Peer Mentor, and I can't wait to meet all of my mentees!
En Xi Kwah
Class: 2028
Major(s): Forensic Science, Chemistry
Hometown: Singapore
Languages: English, Mandarin
Contact: enkwah@syr.edu
Bio: Hi! Congratulations and welcome to Syracuse University! My name is En Xi and I’m a rising sophomore. I’m in the Renée Crown University Honors Program and also a University 100 student ambassador (tour guide). As a peer mentor, I’m here to support incoming international students and help make the transition into college a little less intimidating. I look forward to meeting you all this fall and being a part of your Syracuse journey!
Gianna Frank
Class: 2026
Majors: Neuroscience & Biology
Hometown: Mohawk, NY
Languages: English
Contact: gtfrank@syr.edu
Bio: Hello! I am Gianna and I will be a senior in the Fall! I have experience going to school abroad after high school and I am hoping that I can help to make this transition to Syracuse University easier and a positive experience. I am involved in several organizations on campus that mostly focus on being a Pre-Health student with the plan of attending medical school. I look forward to being a resource for you!
Guoyin Ji
Class: 2026
Major: Mathematics
Contact: gji103@syr.edu
Bio: Hi, everyone! Welcome to SU! My name is GUOYIN JI! Currently, I will be a senior in the 2025 fall semester, and my main major is Mathematics with a minor in Accounting. I am looking forward to helping new students quickly adapt to the Syracuse University campus, learn about the use of various school resources, and help them become healthier and happier in their SU life!
Ilona Tapper
Pronouns: she/her
Class year: 2028
Majors: International Relations, and Political Science
Hometown: Jyväskylä, Finland
Contact: istapper@syr.edu
Bio: Hello! My name is Ilona, and I am a rising sophomore at Syracuse majoring in International Relations and Political Science. I am involved in many organizations on campus, such as the Model United Nations club, which I am the secretary of. I am also excited to be a Resident Advisor for the International Relations Living Learning Community next year. In my free time, I enjoy running, playing various instruments, such as the guitar and the piano, and spending time in nature. I am also interested in foreign languages and cultures. I look forward to getting to know my mentees and helping them make the most out of their time at Syracuse by succeeding academically, learning more about themselves, and finding their place and people far away from home :)
Jennifer Vanli
Majors: Science Education and Biology
Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey
Contact: jvanli@syr.edu
Bio: I was born in Istanbul, Turkey, and hold dual citizenship with Germany. My journey has taken me across continents, from Europe to the East Coast of the United States, where I’ve lived in several different cities and developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. As someone who has experienced the challenges of adapting to new environments firsthand, I understand how important it is to feel supported and connected. As a peer mentor, I’m committed to creating a welcoming space for international students as they navigate academic and cultural transitions during their time in Syracuse.
Lucy Upton
Class: 2027
Majors: Psychology and Forensic Science
Hometown: Washington, DC
Contact: lcupton@syr.edu
Bio: Hi everyone! My name is Lucy Upton and I am a junior studying in the College of Arts and Sciences here at Syracuse University. I am involved in an on-campus food magazine and Greek life. My interests include sports, art, and trying new things. I am excited to meet all of you and help your transition to Syracuse be as seamless as possible. Please reach out to me if you ever need anything or have any questions!
Nikori Wakamatsu
Pronouns: She/Her
Class: 2027
Majors: Law, Society, and Policy and International Relations
Minor: Finance
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Languages: Japanese and English (Learning: Chinese and Korean)
Contact: nwakamat@syr.edu
Bio: Hello everyone! My name is Nikori, a sophomore, majoring in LSP and IR. In addition to my coursework, I conduct research in the fields of peace studies (mainly global governance) and space law. I am a member of Campus Connect, the SOURCE program, and recently joined Model United Nations. I am excited to be a Peer Mentor and can’t wait to see you guys!!! Let’s go ORANGE!
Tess Humphreys
Hometown: Westchester NY
Contact: tchumphr@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and congratulations on your commitment to Syracuse!! My name is Tess Humphreys and I am a rising sophomore studying Sociology and Law, Society, and Policy, with a minor in Chinese Language. I enjoy playing soccer, cooking, art, doing escape rooms, and being in the outdoors. I am so excited for you to experience how great and welcoming this university is. I have loved my time here so far and looking forward to helping guide you through your first year here! Please always feel free to reach out.
Tsz Hong (Donald) Ma
Class: 2026
Majors: International Relations and Sociology
Languages: Cantonese, Mandarin, English
Contact: tma106@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and welcome to Syracuse University! I am Tsz Hong Ma Donald, a third-year student majoring in International Relations and Sociology. Your peer mentor stands ready to support you through this thrilling new experience whether it involves academic challenges understanding your coursework or adapting to new campus life and finding your community here. The combination of my work experience in International Relations and my dedication to student support forms the basis of my commitment to ensure your transition is both seamless and impactful. I'm excited about meeting you and developing alongside you throughout the semester!
Uma Banerjee
Class: 2026
Hometown: Austin, TX
Contact: umbanerj@syr.edu
Bio: Hey everyone! My name is Uma Banerjee and I am a rising senior, majoring in English and Textual Studies! I can't wait to meet all my mentees in the Fall! A fun fact about me is before my family moved to Texas, I lived in Toronto for 20 years. One of my favorite experiences at SU was getting to write for the Universities TENDER Magazine. Besides writing, I also love reading, running, enjoying films, and going for walks around campus. I am excited to share my interests with my mentees as they transition to life at Syracuse.
Victoria Alwar
Class: 2027
Majors: Biology and Neuroscience
Contact: vaalwar@syr.edu
Bio: Victoria is a junior at Syracuse University in the College of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Biology and Neuroscience. Her academic and research focus is fueled by an understanding of the brain's cellular and molecular functions, which contribute to the development of therapeutic drugs. She is an undergraduate researcher studying seizures in epilepsy, a peer trainer for InclusiveU students, and a pre-health ambassador. Outside of her academics, she is a member of the Society of Women Engineers, an alumnus of the Career Preparation Program-WiSE, a member of the neuroscience club, and part of the Black Pre-Medical Society. Her experience as a student, leader, and undergraduate researcher is guided by her Clifton Strengths: Learner, Deliberate, Focus, Discipline, and Analytical, and logistician personality.
Vitor Kobbaz Ferreira
Class: 2028
Major: International Relations
Minor: Business
Hometown: Pindamonhangaba, Brazil
Contact: vkobbazf@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and welcome to Syracuse University! My name is Vitor, and I’m a rising sophomore majoring in International Relations with a minor in Business. I am part of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, the German National Honors Society Delta Phi Alpha, and the Brazilian Student Association (BRASA) on campus, where I will serve as Secretary this fall. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports (especially going to the gym and playing volleyball) and honing my skills in the foreign languages I speak. I hope to support other international students so they can thrive in a new environment far from home.
Zhilin Li
Class: 2026
Major: Information Management and Technology
Minor: Computer Science
Homet: China
Contact: zli389@syr.edu
Bio: Hello and welcome to Syracuse! My name is Zhilin, and I'm excited to be your mentor. My time here has been absolutely incredible, and I’m excited to help you experience the same happiness and satisfaction. As a rising senior majoring in Information Management and Technology, I have a deep passion for all things tech. But that's not all I'm about! I'm also deeply involved in a variety of campus organizations, which have enriched my time here and can do the same for you. Welcome again and I hope to help you transition into SU and have a successful academic career.
Zodie Barron
Pronouns: She/Her
Class: 2027
Majors: Forensic Science and Chemistry
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Contact: zxbarron@syr.edu
Bio: Hi guys, and congratulations on committing to Syracuse University! My name is Zodie, and I am a junior honors student studying Forensic Science and Chemistry here at the university. In addition to my coursework, I serve as an undergraduate researcher in the Hu Research Group, a Physics Coach, and a biology P.L.T.L. peer leader. Outside of academics, I am an avid reader, thrifter, and food lover. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time if you have any questions about the university, and I hope that you can come to love SU as much as I have :)
Zaiyma Mashkoor
Class: 2028
Major: English and Textual Studies
Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Jersey City, New Jersey
Languages: English, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi
Contact: zmashkoo@syr.edu
Bio: Hi! My name is Zaiyma and I am a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences! In addition to my coursework, I am also a research assistant with The Source and the English Department as well as an E-Board Member of ‘Cuse Spot, an organization that organizes events for the local Syracuse Community children! I am very excited to be a peer mentor and to meet all of you!