Meet The Mentors

Hi! I am a Junior here at WSU, but I grew up on an island near Canada. I love going to football, soccer, and basketball games, as well as hanging out with friends, working out, and tanning. I just got back from studying abroad in Madrid, which was so much fun. Feel free to reach out for anything!

Hi! I’m Adele, a PhD candidate in Crop and Soil Sciences studying wheat genetics. After three years in Pullman as an international student, I know how big a fresh start can feel, and I’m here to help make everything a little smoother. Outside the lab, I love traveling, photography, music, and movies. I especially enjoy meeting people from different cultures, hearing their music, and tasting their food. Looking forward to meeting you!

My name is Alejandro Guillen, graduate student in Materials Science and Engineering. Originally from Honduras, but have lived in the United States for nine years. Big into sports, music and being outdoors, but mostly meeting new people and having a good time!

Welcome to WSU! I am Joao, a second-year Ph.D. student in Sociology from Brazil. My research focuses on food systems and rural sociology. Beyond my studies, I find my balance through academic and personal activities—playing volleyball, baking, or enjoying karaoke. I am committed to supporting new international students as they navigate their academic paths and make Pullman their home.

Hi! My name is Kayla, and I’m from Mililani, Hawai‘i. I’m majoring in Biology with a minor in Psychology and plan to pursue a career in medicine. I’ve always had a passion for helping others and hope to one day return home to Hawai‘i to give back to the community that raised me. In my free time, I love staying active through working out, running, and hiking anything that gets me outdoors and connected with nature. I’m excited to meet new people, build meaningful connections, and help students feel supported as they settle into life at WSU!

Dear upcoming Cougs, my name is Leon. I’m originally from Taiwan, a beautiful island surrounded by water, and I’m currently a fourth-year Ph.D. student in Criminal Justice and Criminology. Outside of academics, I enjoy listening to live music, traveling, and grabbing drinks with friends. I’m always happy to connect and support students as they navigate their academic and personal journeys at WSU. Nice to meet you!

Hello! My name is Misk and I’m from Kuwait. I study English Literature at WSU. I absolutely love musicals and theatre, and in my free time I enjoy art and swimming. I’m looking forward to meeting you all. Go Cougs!

Hi! I’m Ruiting (Carrie), a Hospitality PhD student who loves crocheting and photography in my free time. I’m thrilled to welcome you to WSU! Whether you’re pursuing big dreams or adjusting to campus life, I’m here to help you settle in and explore our shared “home away from home.” Let’s make your WSU journey unforgettable!

Hi, my name is Tamara. I am an Animal Science Pre-Vet major with a minor in Wildlife Ecology. I am from Colombia, and before coming to the U.S I spent 17 years living abroad in several different countries. Because of that, I know firsthand what it feels like to be the new student in a new country. I understand how overwhelming, exciting, and confusing that transition can be, and I would love to help other students feel more comfortable and connected. I speak Spanish and Portuguese, and I am always happy to be a friendly face, answer questions, or help students find their place. I also love working and volunteering with animals, so if that is something you are interested in, I would be excited to help you explore opportunities or set something up!

My name is Tobey Nakamatsu and I am currently majoring in Biology on the Pre Dentistry track. An interest of mine is that I like to keep up with sports such as the NBA, MLB, and NFL. I enjoy listening to music and can maybe be there to help you study. I am also currently teaching myself how to draw.

Hi, my name is Tuti Hidayati, and I am from Indonesia and I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Language, Literacy, and Technology Program. It’s my second semester as an international peer mentor, I am here to support you as you adjust to campus life, explore new opportunities, and achieve your goals. I look forward to connecting with you.

Hi! I’m Zahra, a Ph.D. candidate in Cultural Studies and Social Thought in Education at WSU from Iran. I am passionate about supporting fellow international students as they adjust to life in the U.S. I enjoy learning about different cultures, building community, and helping others feel welcomed and connected at WSU.

Hi! My name is Zixing Li. I’m from Xi’an, China. I’m a Ph.D. candidate in Language, Literacy, and Technology program. I came to Pullman in 2022. In my free time, I like traveling, watching films and hanging out with friends. Looking forward to connecting with you. Go Cougs!

Namaste, Cougs! I’m Sheersa, a PhD student in Plant Pathology researching bacterial canker in sweet cherries. Beyond the lab, I love exploring new cuisines, scenic drives, and hosting lively gatherings. From India, I bring a passion for food, Rabindrasangeet, Bharatanatyam, and six languages. Having navigated the transition to U.S. life, I’m here to help you feel at home—reach out anytime!

Hi! I am Swapnika, a PhD student in Food Science focusing on food safety —specifically tracking Listeria in tree fruit packinghouses. Originally from Delhi, India, I spent four years in Europe before coming to WSU for my doctoral studies. I love hiking, traveling, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Washington State. As an international student myself, I understand the excitement and challenges of studying in a new country. I am here to help you navigate the transition and support you as you find your place at WSU. Don’t hesitate to reach out— I am happy to help!

I am from Abesim, a small town in the Bono Region of Ghana. I am a third-year Ph.D. student in Horticulture at WSU-TFREC in Wenatchee. I am here to use my experience and the resources available to guide you in transitioning to Washington. I enjoy fishing, cooking, and playing soccer. My favorite music genres are Afrobeats and the Jamaican dancehall.

Hello and welcome! My name is Gillian Freeby and I am from University Place, Washington. I am currently in my second year in the WSU College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences PharmD program. Outside of my studies, I enjoy hiking, reading, and crafting. I’m excited to support new students as they begin their journey at WSU Spokane.

Hi, I’m Prabesh—Ph.D. student in Biological Systems Engineering. My research focuses on stormwater treatment and protecting waterways from 6PPD-quinone. Outside research, my greatest joy is time with my wife and daughter—plus photography and trying new foods! Having moved from Nepal to the PNW, I understand transitions well. I’m here to help you find your footing. Please reach out.