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 email/phone/text 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

• Full-time undergraduate degree seeking students in good academic standing (rising sophomore, junior, and senior) (Graduate students are not eligible.)
• Cumulative GPA: 3.0 and above
• Commitment to a one-semester appointment (Fall)
• Excellent English verbal and written communication skills
• Great interpersonal and intercultural skills
• Ability to empower others
• Knowledge of campus and community

Benefits of Being a Peer Mentor

• Receive one CAS 270 credit in Fall semester (within 19 credits).
• Receive a LinkedIn Peer Mentor Award badge.
• Receive a graduation medallion.
• Earn 45 volunteer/community engagement hours.
• Receive recommendation to participate in career immersion programs (enhance your application but does not guarantee a spot).
• Have an opportunity to receive a letter of reference/recommendation for job and/or graduate program.
• Gain competences 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.
• Develop long-lasting friendships with peers from all around the world.

Apply

• Application for 2026-2027 is now available at https://syr.joinhandshake.com/edu/jobs/10677505
• Two info sessions about the Peer Mentor program will be hosted on Feb. 6 (Friday) and Feb. 20 (Friday) at 3pm. Join Zoom via ID: 767-008-1875.
• The application deadline is March 10, 2026. The application form takes you less than 10 minutes.
• Successful applicants will be contacted by March 15 for interview.
• Final selections will be made by April 10.
• Mentor training (mandatory) will be on April 18 (Saturday).

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.

Aakash Pawar

Class: Class of 2028

Major: B.S. International Relations

Minor: Political Science; Applied Data Science

Hometown: Pune, India

Languages: English, Marathi, Hindi, French (introductory), Japanese (introductory)

Contact: aapawar@syr.edu

Bio

From Pune, India, I'm pursuing a B.S. in International Relations with minors in Political Science and Applied Data Science, with the ultimate goal of joining the Indian Foreign Service as a diplomat. I've conducted geopolitics research through a paid internship at the Pune International Centre, served as an FYS Peer Leader, tutored fellow students, and received both the International Book Award and the Invest in Success Scholarship. I'm a huge cricket fan, love anime, and can talk international politics for hours. I'm looking forward to helping mentees through whatever challenges they face as they begin a new chapter in their life.

Akkawat Ketvoravit

Class: Class of 2029

Major: Economics

Hometown: Thailand

Languages: English, Thai

Contact: aketvora@syr.edu

Bio

I'm from Thailand and came to SU to study Economics, with a focus on accounting and finance for my future career. Back home, I interned with the Ministry of Commerce Thailand on business development and with Novotel Siam on a sustainability initiative, and I also ran donation marathons to support rural kids in Thailand. At SU, I've earned the International Student Excellence Award and made the Dean's List, which I'm really proud of. I like to play sports, I'm very adaptable, and I'm here to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Anjun Liang

Class: Class of 2029

Major: Economics

Hometown: Shanghai, China

Languages: English, Mandarin

Contact: aliang05@syr.edu

Bio

I'm from Shanghai, China, studying Economics at SU with a long-term goal of becoming a company or sector manager — or maybe an entrepreneur someday. I've tracked shipments and inventory for BEST Express logistics, volunteered with La Casita community service, and was honored with the Chancellor Scholarship. In my free time, I play guitar, go ice skating, and enjoy both mobile and PlayStation games. I have a good personality, I'm a people person, and I'm always glad to offer help and support — so please don't hesitate to reach out!

Antara Ajoy Patel

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Psychology and Human Development and Family Science

Hometown: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Languages: English, Hindi

Contact: apate126@syr.edu

Bio

Growing up in Dubai, I developed a fascination with people — how they think, feel, and grow — which led me to study Psychology and Human Development and Family Science at SU. I'm a very friendly, extraverted person who loves having intellectual conversations, talking about psychology, grabbing coffee, and finding cute spots to do work. I'm an Invest Scholar and Leadership Scholar, interned at Fortis Hospital, and this fall I'll be working at Golisano Children's Hospital. I also volunteer at a thrift store and the International Student dinner events. My goal is to become a therapist or counselor, and I genuinely can't wait to connect with my mentees!

Anya Green

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Biology

Hometown: Sudbury, Massachusetts

Languages: English

Contact: agreen64@syr.edu

Bio

From Sudbury, Massachusetts, I came to SU with a passion for Biology and a clear goal: becoming a veterinarian. Outside of class, you'll find me traveling, running, doing yoga, reading, or hitting the slopes whenever I get the chance. I've worked as a camp counselor and volunteered in a therapeutic horseback riding program, which reinforced my love for animals and working with people. I'm genuinely excited to help my mentees find their footing at SU and make the most of everything college has to offer.

Ben Wasserman

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Biology

Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts

Languages: English

Contact: bwasserm@syr.edu

Bio

From Boston, I'm a Biology major at SU with a genuine love for science, community, and trying new things. I've worked as an emergency medical dispatcher, youth sports coach, and house painter, and I volunteer through hospital work, Books and Cooks at the Shaw Center, and on-campus ambulance services. I also conducted undergraduate research at a neurobiology lab back in Boston. Whether I'm playing cards, running, cooking, or meeting someone new, I'm always up for it. I enjoy meeting new people, and I'm looking forward to being a resource for my mentees!

Cindy Lin

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Finance

Minor: Economics

Hometown: New York

Languages: English, Cantonese, Mandarin

Contact: clin89@syr.edu

Bio

I'm a Finance major with a minor in Economics, originally from New York and fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. I've worked at a coffee shop and a jewelry store, and gained professional experience through a jewelry store internship, building practical skills alongside my studies. In my downtime, you'll find me cooking or hanging out with friends. I'm aiming for a career in business and am happy to help my mentees navigate SU life — don't hesitate to reach out!

Dylan Tehran

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Psychology

Minor: Sociology

Hometown: Chicago

Languages: English

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!

Ilona Tapper

Class: Class of 2028

Major: International Relations, Political Science

Minor: Spanish

Hometown: Jyväskylä, Finland

Languages: English, Finnish, Swedish, Spanish

Contact: istapper@syr.edu

Bio

Coming all the way from Jyväskylä, Finland, I study International Relations and Political Science with a Spanish minor, hoping to one day work in diplomacy. I speak four languages, have worked as a camp counselor and food worker, fundraised for SOS Children's Village, and volunteered at a rescue animal shelter — and I've even mentored international students before, so I know firsthand how valuable that support can be. I'm an Invest in Success Scholar and proud to have made the Dean's List every semester so far. Whether you love hiking, music, arts, or sports, I look forward to meeting you and helping in any way I can!

Julia Rodenberger

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Visual Communications

Minor: Political Science

Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts

Languages: English, Spanish (fluent), French (conversational)

Contact: jrodenb@syr.edu

Bio

Growing up in Boston, I've always been drawn to creative expression — whether that's making art, discovering new music, or just wandering around somewhere new. At SU, I'm studying Visual Communications with a minor in Political Science, and this fall I'll be joining Newhouse's interactive media lab as a research assistant, which I'm honestly so excited about. I've spent time as a gallery attendant, an Orientation Leader, and a volunteer through clubs doing everything from sandwich making to helping out at the local zoo. As a Founder's Scholar and Invest in Success Scholar, I believe deeply in the power of community and showing up for each other. I'm passionate about trying new things and helping others do the same — so don't be shy!

Katrina Mandal

Class: Class of 2029

Major: International Relations and Anthropology

Hometown: New York City

Languages: English, Bengali

Contact: kmandal@syr.edu

Bio

From New York City, I'm studying International Relations and Anthropology with the goal of becoming a human rights lawyer, and I've already been taking steps in that direction — interning at the New York Legal Assistance Group, Eleanor's Legacy, and a New York State court, and working as a New York State Board of Elections poll worker. I phone bank for advocacy groups, tutor SHSAT students, and volunteer at food pantries, La Casita, and blood drives. I'm a Success U Scholar and Chancellor Scholar, and I'm passionate about social advocacy, music, film, and thrifting. I love anyone open to trying new things, and I can absolutely be your person for that!

Krupa Patel

Class: Class of 2029

Major: Political Science

Hometown: Chapin, South Carolina

Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi

Contact: kpatel74@syr.edu

Bio

I'm from Chapin, South Carolina, a first-generation college student and the first in my family to pursue a military career — both of which I carry with a lot of pride. I'm studying Political Science with career goals in the Air Force and politics, and I've worked as a Subway Artist, grocery associate, tutor for Teach For America, and more. On the service side, I've volunteered with the Salvation Army, Food Recovery Network, Book Buddies, and Scare Hunger, among others. I'm an Invest in Success Scholar and I love reading, journaling, and writing poetry. I'm here to support you however I can!

Maria Jose Coronel

Class: Class of 2028

Major: International Relations

Minor: Global Security Studies, Political Science

Hometown: Samborondon, Ecuador

Languages: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese (basic)

Contact: mjcorone@syr.edu

Bio

Originally from Samborondon, Ecuador, I'm studying International Relations with a minor in Global Security Studies, with ambitions in law, intelligence, diplomacy, or the judiciary. I've interned at the Consulate of Ecuador in Miami and the Olympic Committee in Guayaquil, and I'm a Coronat Scholar, Dean's List honoree, Success Scholar, and proud member of the Honors Program. I love painting, reading, and staying active, and I bring that same energy to everything I do here at SU. Don't be scared to reach out — I'm here for you!

Megan Barna (Meg)

Class: Class of 2028

Major: International Relations

Minor: Italian and Global Security Studies

Hometown: Tenafly, New Jersey

Languages: English, Italian (four semesters)

Contact: mebarna@syr.edu

Bio

I'm Meg, from Tenafly, New Jersey, studying International Relations with minors in Italian and Global Security Studies — hoping to one day work in an embassy overseas, practice international law, or contribute to the UN. I've interned for a New Jersey assemblyman, taught tennis to underserved communities, volunteered one-on-one with elderly individuals, and worked as a camp counselor and assistant racquet pro. I'm an Invest in Success Scholar and genuinely love meeting new people. Looking forward to connecting with my mentees and getting to know them better!

Mendez Mann Weil

Class: Class of 2029

Major: Neuroscience and Psychology

Hometown: Los Angeles, California

Languages: English

Contact: mberma05@syr.edu

Bio

Super excited to meet you!! I'm from Los Angeles and currently studying Neuroscience and Psychology — and maybe making a move to Newhouse for PR, we'll see! I teach figure skating to everyone from kids to graduate students, volunteer at the Rescue Mission thrift store, and work as a research assistant at a behavioral health lab through the Veterans Center. I'm not sure exactly where my career will take me yet, but I know whatever I do, I was set on this earth to help people and that's what I intend to do. Come say hi — I promise I don't bite! :)

Mercedes Urena

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Statistics

Minor: Applied Data Science

Hometown: New York, NY

Languages: English

Contact: meurena@syr.edu

Bio

I'm a Statistics major with a minor in Applied Data Science from New York, NY, and my goal is to build a career in data science or finance. Last summer, I worked as a Private Equity analyst at One Equity Partners, and on campus I coach students as a Physics tutor for AST101. When I'm not in the numbers, I'm crocheting, knitting, playing soccer, doing photography, or solving puzzles — I have a lot going on! As an Invest in Success Scholar, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner. I am here to help you and am very excited to meet you!

Natalie Chojnacki

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Psychology and Political Science

Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand

Languages: English, Thai

Contact: njchojna@syr.edu

Bio

Growing up in Bangkok, Thailand gave me a truly global perspective, and it's something I carry into my studies in Psychology and Political Science at SU every day. I've coached soccer, organized donations to a rural Thai elementary school, fundraised for Operation Smile, and spent time at a temple kindergarten cooking and connecting with kids — all experiences that shaped who I am. On the professional side, I've interned at both Minor International and Amadeus in legal roles, pushing me toward a career in corporate law. I am super open to trying out new activities that my mentee may enjoy, so whatever you're into, let's explore it together!

Nikori Wakamatsu

Class: Class of 2027

Major: International Relations

Minor: Global Security Studies

Hometown: Tokyo, Japan

Languages: English, Japanese

Contact: nwakamat@syr.edu

Bio

Originally from Tokyo, I'm studying International Relations with a minor in Global Security Studies, aiming for a career that spans finance, government, space law, or the UN — I like to keep my options open! I've interned across a wide range of fields including app marketing, social media, English teaching, web design, and project work at a space startup, with finance experience coming this summer. I also conduct research in the Political Department and received the SOURCE Scholarship and Summer Internship Award. Between dramas, musicals, outdoor adventures, and a serious love of good food, there's always something going on — feel free to reach out!

Sreshtha Thangaswamy

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Political Science, Economics

Hometown: Chennai, India and Edison, New Jersey

Languages: English, Tamil, Korean

Contact: Sthangas@syr.edu

Bio

Between Chennai, India and Edison, New Jersey, I've grown up with a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives — something that feeds directly into my studies in Political Science and Economics and my focus on East Asian foreign strategy and diplomacy. I've interned on water infrastructure with New York State, conducted research on Chaebol reform in South Korea and Taiwan's foreign policy, and volunteered with Hands of Hope, the UN, and Japan Society. This summer, I'll be interning with the German Marshall Fund as a Japan Intern and with a human rights organization focused on North Korea. I'm a Remembrance Scholar and Invest in Success Scholar, and I love art, dance, music, and film just as much as I love geopolitics.

Tatianna Reid

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Biochemistry

Hometown: Boston, MA

Languages: English

Contact: treid06@syr.edu

Bio

From Boston, MA, I'm a Biochemistry major at SU with my sights set on becoming a medical doctor. I conduct green roof research on campus, and I've interned as a visitor experience guide at an aquarium and as an architectural apprentice — two experiences that might seem unexpected for a pre-med student, but honestly reflect how much I love exploring different things. I also volunteer by teaching nutrition classes to elementary school students. Outside of academics, I'm into anime, music, baking, cooking, and video games. I love to explore and do new things on and off campus, so let's find some adventures together!

Yiming Cheng

Class: Class of 2029

Major: Advertising (if transfer successfully) / Policy Studies (intended)

Minor: Psychology (intended)

Hometown: Tianjin, China

Languages: English, Chinese

Contact: Ycheng64@syr.edu

Bio

I'm originally from Tianjin, China, and I came to SU with a love of reading, piano, and a whole lot of curiosity about the world. I'm working toward a path in advertising or policy, with a minor in psychology, and I'm currently a peer leader for FYS101 — so I genuinely love talking and connecting with people. I received the Invest in Success Scholarship and hope to build a career in media or government someday. I am an outgoing girl, and I love to talk, so please feel free to reach out anytime!

Yusra Khasawneh

Class: Class of 2028

Major: Biochemistry

Minor: Medical Anthropology; Business (intended)

Hometown: Alaska, Jordan, Bahrain, and Dubai

Languages: English, Arabic

Contact: ytkhasaw@syr.edu

Bio

Having grown up across Alaska, Jordan, Bahrain, and Dubai, I bring a truly multicultural lens to everything I do — including my work in Biochemistry and Medical Anthropology here at SU. I've been a Resident Advisor, a medical receptionist, a barista, a MakerSpace supervisor, and I even run a seasonal farmers market stall on the side. I conduct biomedical engineering research at the Biomaterials Institute and have received the 1870 Scholar, Crown Thesis Funding Award, and SOURCE Award. I'm looking to get to know my mentees better and create fun opportunities for us to hang out — because balancing a busy academic life with enriching outside experiences is something I believe in deeply, and I plan to make that happen throughout the semester!

Zhongyi Fang

Class: Class of 2026

Major: Mathematics

Hometown: Nanjing and Yancheng, China

Languages: English, Mandarin

Contact: hfang09@syr.edu

Bio

I'm a Mathematics major from Nanjing and Yancheng, China, with a passion for Financial Mathematics and a love of cooking on the side. I've worked and interned with JMA Food Services here at SU, balancing hands-on professional experience with my studies. As someone who has navigated the transition to university life as an international student, I understand the challenges that come with it and am here to offer whatever support I can.

Zodie Barron

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Chemistry & Forensic Science

Hometown: Dallas, Texas

Languages: English

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 :)

Zoe Fang

Class: Class of 2027

Major: Policy Studies

Minor: Public Health

Hometown: New York City

Languages: English, Cantonese

Contact: zfang37@syr.edu

Bio

From New York City, I'm a Policy Studies major with a minor in Public Health, driven by a deep passion for bridging health disparities and inequities alongside meaningful policy work. I've interned as a Business Process and Policy Intern with the NYC School Construction Authority, organized fundraising and outreach for the Koenig Childhood Cancer Foundation, and served at The Samaritan Center food kitchen. I'm an Archbold Day Scholar and Invest in Success Scholar, and next year I'll be stepping into the role of Vice President of the Multicultural Greek Council. When I'm not studying or volunteering, you'll find me doing film photography, exploring new cafes, or baking something fun — and I'd love to have you along for the ride.

Previous mentors

• List of Previous Peer Mentors