Meet the International Peer Mentors

My name is Addison Thomson. I’m a senior studying advertising, philosophy and marketing. I’m the current Vice President of Community Relations at Delta Delta Delta. I love all things nature, art and music.

I'm a lifelong learner passionate about helping others. With a background in education and social work, I've dedicated myself to supporting diverse communities. Traveling allows me to appreciate different cultures, and I enjoy photography in my free time. I value respect and wisdom and strive to embody those qualities in all aspects of my life.

I am Astha Tiwari, a junior majoring in Medical Sciences with a passion for dance, travel and exploration. As an international student from India, my journey has been a fusion of academic pursuits and cultural exploration. Currently serving as the Internal Vice President at the International Student Organization, I am dedicated to enhancing the student experience for my peers. Beyond academics, I find joy in expressing myself through dance and embracing diverse cultures through travel. Eager to bridge connections and share my experiences, I am thrilled to contribute as an International Peer Mentor, fostering a supportive community for fellow students on their unique international journeys.

Hello! My name is Avneet Virk, and I am majoring in Computer Science. With fluency in Punjabi, English and Hindi, I'm here to provide support and guidance in multiple languages to ensure you have a smooth and successful experience at the university.

This university has been an incredible place for me to grow, explore and learn something new every single day. In addition to my role as a peer mentor, I work as an SI-PASS leader for MATH 143, helping students excel in their coursework. Starting Fall 2023, I'll also be taking on a new position as an Academic Peer Mentor, further expanding my ability to support and guide fellow students in their academic journey. When I'm not studying or working, you'll find me on the tennis court, immersed in nature, reading, or exploring local cafes. I am excited to connect with you and ensure your experience at the University of Idaho is exceptional.

Let's connect, have fun and make the most of your university journey together!

Hey Vandals, I am Aayushi from India. I am majoring in Computer Science. I like exploring new things and learn about different cultures. Welcome to the U of I community!

David Akowuah is a doctoral student at the College of Natural Resources, at the University of Idaho. Originally from Ghana, he obtained his bachelor's in biology at the University of Cape Coast. He continued to pursue his master's in Climate Change and Integrated Natural Resources Management at CSIR College of Science and Technology, Ghana. His research looks at regeneration silviculture and interspecific competition control effects on tree seedling survival and growth: tree seedlings' interaction with native and non-native forbs. Before beginning his doctorate, he briefly worked for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana.

I am a Canadian citizen joined U of I in Spring 2023 to pursue my graduate studies in Nutrition at Family and Consumer Science. I am interested in public health and nutrition research, food security, gender and equity.

Hi! I'm Iffat from Bangladesh, a sophomore with a zest for marketing. You can find me mastering the art of photography, grooving to smooth beats or whipping up culinary delights!

Hi, I'm Kathy! I'm from Southern India, Bangalore to be more precise. I am currently a sophomore doing my bachelors in microbiology and biology with a focus on pre-med. In my free time, I enjoy reading a good book, playing the piano and just exploring my surroundings. I look forward to helping people find their place!

I am Lalit Bansal, a freshman pursuing double major in bachelor's in General Economics and bachelor's in Statistics in Actuarial Science and Finance. I am an international student myself from India.

Hey there! I'm Meenal, and I'm here to help you transition to a new environment smoothly. Let's chat, share experiences and make your time enjoyable.

Hello, this is Mussab Malik from Pakistan. I am majoring in OM and am currently a junior. Moving to another country is a big decision and requires a person to be very strong to make that decision. I am here to help anyone who is willing to move to the US for their studies at U of I.

Junior majoring in OM and Accounting.

Hi, I am Pabitra Joshi, a doctoral student at the plant science department, University of Idaho. I am originally from Nepal. My research project involves the use of high throughput genotypic and phenotypic data to estimate genomic selection prediction accuracy for grain yield and agronomic traits in wheat. I am also working on validation and fine mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for the dwarf bunt and common bunt resistance in wheat. My future career goal is to enter the plant breeding industry and pursue a career in research and development in crop improvement.

My name is Raveen Rani. I am a Master’s student in Nutritional Sciences, hailing from the vibrant and culturally diverse country of India. With a genuine passion for promoting well-being through nutrition and disease prevention programs. I enjoys interacting with people and fostering connections.

Hi! My name is Ritika Sharma. I am a Junior at the University of Idaho studying Interior Architecture and Design. I am from Kathmandu, Nepal. In my free time, I like to dance, watch Netflix shows and explore new places.

I am Riyan Shrestha, a sophomore perusing a degree in Computer Science. I’m originally from Nepal. I am delighted to help you as an International Peer Mentor as you transition into U of I. Feel free to reach out

I'm a graduate student in the human factors program at U of I. As an international student myself, I've been through the struggle of adjusting to a new life in a new country. It can be challenging to juggle everything while trying to succeed as a student. It makes a huge difference when you have a support system. I'd be happy to provide such a support to the best of my ability.

Hi, I am Rojan Basnet international student from Nepal majoring in Cybersecurity. I am here to help you if you need any help getting through any academic or mental issues.

Hey everyone! I'm Shakil, a sophomore studying mechanical engineering. Originally from Bangladesh, I bring a diverse perspective to the table. I'm passionate about helping fellow students navigate the challenges of college life and embrace new experiences. In addition to being an international peer mentor, I'm also a proud member of a fraternity. Let's connect, learn and grow together!

Hi! My name is Shriza Thakur. I am a rising Junior at the University of Idaho studying Interior Architecture and Design. I am originally from Kathmandu, Nepal. In my free time, I like to binge-watch Netflix shows, go on hikes and explore new places.

Hello, I'm Shruti Debnath, a Computer Science major. Beyond coding, my world is colored by sketching, painting and photography. Exploring new places is my passion. Fluent in English and Bengali, I enjoy working on diverse projects. Let's blend creativity and tech to make an impact together!

Hey there! I'm Shubham, an international peer mentor on a mission to connect, empower and inspire students from all around the world. Born with a passion for cultural exchange, I've always been fascinated by the diverse perspectives and experiences that people bring to the table.

Hey, this is Talha! I'm excited to meet you and show you around campus. Moscow has been home to me for almost two years now, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey here!

Hi there, this is Tegveer Basraon and it's my second semester at U of I, majoring in microbiology with a minor in pre health profession studies. I work as a student staff member (Resident Assistant) for Housing and Residence Life and for UIDAHO ISA as an Event coordinator. I like instrumental music, classical music and landscape photography. I look forward to meet you, discuss about various opportunities and resources and assist you in any way I can.

I have not been abroad before, but I will be going abroad as a part of my degree path in International Studies. Throughout my course work, I have spent lots of time with international students and I am looking to broaden my horizons before I go abroad for the first time.

I'm Udit Sipani, a second-year international student at the University of Idaho. I'm thrilled to share my love of intercultural communication as an international peer mentor and to help students from other countries adjust to a new academic and social setting. I've had experience in the international student organization before, and International Students Inc. and I are dedicated to fostering an inviting and inclusive environment for all students. In my spare time, I like to go swimming, biking, study the Bible and cooking. To help overseas students get the most out of their university experience, I'm looking forward to getting to know them and working with other mentors.

I am outgoing international student from Nepal. I'm a music lover who can't resist a good beat. I'm also an avid reader, always on the lookout for my next favorite book. When it comes to sports, volleyball is my game - I love the thrill of competition and the feeling of pushing myself to be my best. Connecting with new people is one of my passions, and I believe that everyone has a unique story to tell.

Namaste and hello! My name is Yangden Lama, and I am delighted to introduce myself as an international Peer Mentor. I am currently a junior majoring in Civil Engineering and proud to be an international Vandal. Originally from Nepal, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with studying in a foreign country. Beyond my academic pursuits, I am Vice President of the Nepali Student Association (NSA) executive committee. am also honored to serve as an ambassador for the Civil and Environmental Engineering department, where I engage with prospective students and share my experiences in the field. My personal motto is "Make yourself available to the opportunity so that opportunity will be available to you." I firmly believe that by being open-minded, proactive and embracing new experiences, we can unlock a world of possibilities. I understand the unique hurdles that international students face, such as cultural adjustments, language barriers and academic transitions. I am here for support, guidance and a listening ear. So feel free to reach out to me with any questions, or concerns, or simply to say hello. Let's embark on this remarkable adventure together! Go Vandals!

Youbesh Dhaubhadel is a rising Junior majoring in Business & Economics at the University of Idaho. He is an MIT Innovation and Leadership Bootcamp Alum and Watson Scholar who has spent some time learning and practicing the fundamentals of social entrepreneurship and worked with a diverse team of professionals from different fields and pitching into finals in the boot camps. Very briefly he likes to call himself as a minimal capturer through the eyes of a professional sightseer, an explorer with a camera strolling around, creating music for the eye. Similarly, his interest spans from entrepreneurship, business, economics investment and finance to photography and multimedia. He is an open book, a very keen learner at the core and an explorer who doesn’t sets a boundary for learning and seeks to excel in every avenue he sets his foot transcending boundaries. A dynamic leader and a public speaker at the same time. He has been one of the young members to promote and flourish the Toastmasters movement in Nepal starting at the age of 18 demonstrating exceptional leadership skills and aiding to mentor several members and clubs in Kathmandu. He has been part of one of the reality TV shows producing documentaries to promote tourism in Nepal called Imagine Nepal and has a strong background in photography. He is known for his photography and his skills in media. Know more about him on his website: youbesh.com.

Yuan Yuan is a bioengineering student at the University of Idaho. He has been in Moscow for three and a half years and knows many interesting places around Moscow. Yuan has many hobbies, such as outdoor activities, going to the gym and is also a gamer. Yuan is very much looking forward to seeing new students from all over the world join the University of Idaho and also very much hopes to provide help to the students within his ability. At the same time, as the president of the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, Yuan also hopes to establish a good relationship with the presidents of the International Students Association.

Hi, I am Zafrin Siddiqui, and I am majoring in Psychology. I am from Bangladesh. I look forward to working with the international students to make this big transition as smooth and as stress free as possible. Please remember to ask for help, we are here for you.

Hi, I am Zinnia and I am a Junior majoring in Management Information Systems. I am from Kathmandu, Nepal. If you are looking for someone to help you figure out the million questions you have in your head as you transition to U of I, you’ve found the right person. Feel free to reach out, I’ll try my best to be a good resource to you.

As an international student, I always wanted to help fellow Vandals in every possible way. Being an International Peer Mentor just hits the spot. I'd love to help other international Vandals and look forward to making a happy community at U of I.