Hi!! I’m Derrick and I’m a 2nd-year Biology major. I have a white dog named Dexter, I love Niki from 88rising, and I plan to pursue graduate school!

Activities:  CNAS Peer Mentor, Registered EMT, Highlander EMS

I'm a third year biology major on the pre-medical track. Aside from being a peer mentor, I am also an undergraduate research assistant for Dr. Karginov's lab where we study interactions between mRNA and proteins. I was a COPE Health Scholar at Riverside Community Hospital and I am currently the Labs and Training Officer of San Bernardino Free Clinic. In my free time, I work on my Etsy store, BelalaJewelry, play video games, listen to music, and read!

Activities:  CNAS First Year Peer Mentor, Undergraduate Research Assistant in Karginov Lab, RISE Summer 2023 Scholar, COPE Health Scholar, Owner of BelalaJewelry on Etsy, Labs and Training Officer of San Bernadino Free Clinic, University Honors Student

My name is Maylin Reyes and I’m a 3rd year Plant Biology major with a concentration in Plant Pathology, Nematology and Pest Management. I currently do research under the supervision of Dr. Groen, whose lab focuses on plant-nematode interactions while currently working on a project where we are studying how nematode interaction/feeding sites can affect iron transportation! I really enjoy doing research and wish to enroll in UCR’s Plant Pathology PhD program. I’m from South Central Los Angeles, while also being a first generation college student. So far, I am the first of my siblings pursuing a college education. In my free time, I love to spend time with my loved ones by going out to eat and getting coffee! I’m very excited to be working as a peer mentor this year, and with the CNAS department.

Activities:  Research Assistant, Lab Assistant

Hey everyone! My name is Aryan and I am a third-year neuroscience major currently on the pre-med track. During my free time, I love hanging out with my friends, eating, and volunteering at local clinics. As a third-year, I am excited to be more involved on campus this year and hope to further strengthen my connection with the UCR community!

Activities:  ASUCR, Research in Cognitive Neuroscience, EMT, Kaiser Volunteer, Mini Medical School

Hello! My name is Diane Le and I am a 4th year studying for a B.S. in Neuroscience. While pursuing medicine, I am passionate about aiding others in their path in healthcare and the sciences. Joining Dr. Khaleel Razak's research lab, I have been studying Fragile X Syndrome, a genetic cause of autism since my first year. Participating in the Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) program as a CNAS Scholar, I gained the independent research and writing skills needed to present at the RISE Symposium. Working on multiple research projects, I have been privileged to present my findings at the UGR Research Symposium in '23 and '24 and been published in UCR's UGR Research Journal and am working on my third publication. During the quarter, I work in special needs education, an English tutor, volunteer with the visually impaired and emergency department, as well as hold numerous roles across diverse organizations on campus. In my free time, I love to gym, cook, attend concerts, and spend time with my fun loving cat.

Activities:  CNAS Peer Mentor, Behavioral Technician, Neuroscience Research Lab, Logistics Director - Global Medical Brigades, Secretary - BPSHI, Retention Chair - Phi Delta Epsilon, VP Social Standards - Delta Gamma, Project Leader - Mini Medical School, Medical Scholars Program, Emergency Dept Volunteer - Loma Linda Hospital, English Tutor - Pacific Links Foundation

Ashwin Kunaseelan is a senior undergraduate student majoring in microbiology here at UCR. Ashwin is highly motivated and driven to work towards addressing health disparities found in various communities while also working towards being a peer health educator and mentor both on and off campus. Aside from academics, Ashwin loves spending time listening to music, playing tennis, photography, spending time with family, cooking, F1 racing, playing video games, and going to the gym!

Activities:  The Well - Golden Arches Volunteer, Dr. Brandon Brown's SOM HIV Lab - Outreach Lead, Mini Medical School - HIV and AIDS Group, Inland Empire Free Clinic - Supplies and Grants Lead, Project Sunshine Volunteer, Hands on Healthcare Member, SHARP - Volunteer

Hey y’all! I’m Andrew Yee, a third-year biology major at UCR with aspirations to pursue orthopedic medicine. I’m passionate about supporting others and dedicated to helping my peers navigate their challenges and achieve their goals. Throughout my journey in the medical field, I’ve learned the importance of empathy, effective communication, and resilience. Just as a good coach guides their players, I believe in providing mentorship that empowers individuals to tackle obstacles and reach their full potential. As a peer mentor, I aim to assist not just in the classroom but also in health—helping others manage stress, balance responsibilities, and develop wellness strategies, much like creating a game plan for success. I’m excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful difference and empower those around me on their journeys. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Activities:  CNAS Peer Mentor, CNAS Science Ambassador, Inland Empire Street Medicine, The Defeating Epilepsy Foundation, COPE Department Coordinator, Rotocare Free Clinic

Hey guys! My name is Sarah Sutjipto and I love to read fantasy books, bake matcha cookies, and eat yummy food! I can’t wait to serve as a Lead Peer Mentor this year and be able to learn from my mentees and build a supportive community within CNAS. See you!

Activities:  UCR Calla Lab Research, UCR CNAS Peer Mentor, UCR Hearts President, UCR Beta Psi Omega Academic Chair, UCR Bear Tales President, Emergency Medical Technician

Hello everyone! My name is Alexis Aplaon, and I am currently a 3rd year student studying to complete my B.S. in Neuroscience! My current career pathway is going to P.A. school after completing my hours in the medical setting. As of right now, I am in the processing of finishing my externship at a weight loss clinic to earn my certification as a medical assistant. At UCR, I am involved in various organizations such as the Medical Scholars Program, Shadow MD where I served as healthcare recruiter intern, and RFC (Riverside Free Clinic). As a Filipino-American, I am also active in cultural clubs found on campus like Katipunan, where I was the Public Relations Chairperson. Some fun facts about me are that I am graduating a year early, I love playing cozy video games like Animal Crossing, and I love anything arts and crafts like painting, crocheting, you name it! If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to me!

Activities:  Shadow MD, Medical Scholars Program, Riverside Free Clinic. Neuroscience Research Internship: ThinkNeuro, Completing Externship As A M.A., Katipunan - Public Relations Chairperson & Marketing/Design Director

Hello everyone! My name is Eugenia Lee. I am a 2nd year studying for a B.S. in Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology (CMDB) here at UCR. I am currently on the pre-med track to pursue a career in optometry/ophthalmology after graduating. As for my involvement at UCR, I am an active member of the UCR Precision For Vision Club. I discovered my interest in optometry/ophthalmology from my passion for science as I have noticed the constant need for innovation through teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. I hope to apply these ideals in my undergraduate years by uplifting those with similar interests. In my free time, I love to spend time with family and friends, listen to music, make pottery, go outdoors, read, and work out! Please do not hesitate to reach out to me and I look forward to the amazing year ahead of us!

Activities:  Active Member for Precision for Vision Club at UCR

Hi everyone! My name is Mary Ogbogu and I am a second year neuroscience major at UCR! On campus, I'm involved in Navigators, Citrus Free Care, Debate Society, and Medical Scholars Program! In my free time I love playing tennis, watching movies (especially if they're free on Youtube or Tubi), and listening to Nigerian/African gospel music!

Activities:  CNAS First Year Peer Mentor, Navigators, Citrus Free Care, Debate Society, Medical Scholars Program

Hi! My name is Siya, and I’m a third year CMDB major! I’m currently the Vice President for the South Asian Federation, or SAF, here on campus. SAF is an organization that aims to unite the South Asian organizations on campus, and we’ve been working towards establishing a South Asian Resource Center in Costo Hall! I’ve also been volunteering at Riverside Community Hospital through the COPE Health Scholars program since January 2023, which provides pre-med students with an opportunity to gain a hands-on experience in a hospital setting. I serve as a Social Media Coordinator on the leadership team too! I hope to pursue a career in healthcare as an OB/GYN or a pediatrician as I am extremely passionate about bridging the gap between cutting edge technology and effective patient care. I’m super excited to be a First-Year Peer Mentor this year and introduce my mentees to the amazing opportunities that UCR has to offer!

Activities:  Vice President of the UCR South Asian Federation (SAF), Social Media Coordinator at COPE Health Scholars Program

Hi! I’m currently a second year undergraduate biology major. I decided to become a peer mentor, because I wanted to guide first years just like how my peer mentor had helped me during my very own first year! I'm here to support you all through your college journey. I am involved in the A Friend in Me club and an education based research, focused on increasing research engagement within laboratory courses. Currently, my plan is to become a pediatrician or a high school biology teacher (I know, two totally different career paths). In my free time, I love to read and crochet (despite not being the absolute best at it). Feel free to schedule an appointment with me whenever or drop by my office hours!

A Friend in Me, Research With Professor Jiamin Zhang (BCOE) & Dr. Robert Jinkerson (CNAS), WuShu Club

Hey everyone! I'm Snigdha Maddula, a third-year pre-med student pursuing a B.S. in Neuroscience. At UCR and within the Riverside community, I'm actively involved in a variety of organizations and initiatives. These include Riverside Free Clinic, UCR Afsana, Global Medical Brigades, COPE Health Scholars, serving as a Research Associate at the Inland Empire Autism Assessment Center of Excellence (IEAACE), and interning as a Research Intern at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. I also tutor with Grade Potential, co-organize the Heart Health for South Asians Initiative, and I'm a Research & Choreography Fellow with The Aseemkala Initiative. Additionally, I had the privilege of participating in the 2023 RISE Summer Research Program with the McFrederick lab. Outside of my passion for medicine and science, I am a dedicated dancer, choreographer, and singer. I love merging creativity with learning, often choreographing pieces around educational themes. In the future, I aspire to combine my two passions—medicine and the arts—by pursuing a career as both a surgeon and performer. Feel free to reach out if you ever need advice or just want to chat about your journey here at UCR!

CNAS Peer Mentoring, Riverside Free Clinic, Global Medical Brigades, COPE Health Scholar, Research Associate at Inland Empire Autism Assessment Center of Excellence (IEAACE), Research Intern at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCR Afsana, Grade Potential Tutor, Heart Health for South Asians Initiative, Research & Choreography Fellow with The Aseemkala Initiative

Hello! My name is Elizabeth and I am a third year neuroscience major. Coming to UCR was a bit nerve-racking at first, but as I became friends with my learning community and met new people through student organizations, I began to adjust to college life along with the help from my peer mentor. It definitely helped to have a friendly older student answering my questions and sharing advice. And now, two years later, I feel appreciative of all the support from this community that has enabled my growth and I feel grateful for all the opportunities I've had—from experiencing research with RISE, to working as an orientation leader, and coming full circle as a peer mentor this year. If you ever have any questions or just want to chat with someone, just let me know! I look forward to meeting everyone this year, sharing my experiences, and helping you all out on your academic journey!

CNAS First-Year Program Peer Mentor, California Teach - Science & Math Initiative (CalTeach-SMI) Student Leader, Tomorrow's Teachers in Science and Math (TTSM) Community Chair, Asian American Christian Fellowship (AACF) Small Group Leader

Hey! My name is Adrian Martinez, a 2nd year CMDB major and I'm so excited to be a peer mentor! I'm currently applying to internships and medical assistant positions for the following summer to gain more experience in the medical field. I plan on getting my masters in public health to then go to med school to become a neonatal physician! I love listening to music and camping out for concerts for way to long. I hope that I can be someone that you can trust and confide in.

CNAS First Year Program

Hi! My name is Maya Priestley, I am super excited to be a Peer Mentor for everyone this quarter! I am currently a 3rd year biology major, and looking into MD or PhD programs to continue my science education. In my free time I love to read and take my dog out to the beach. I know it can be a bit difficult to acclimate to university, so please feel free to ask my any questions!

CNAS Peer Mentor, Mini Medical School (MMS), Saltzman Lab, COPE Health Scholars

Hi everyone! My name is Sarah Tabel, I am a 4th year biology major here at UCR. My main career interest is in exploring the world of optometry through hands-on experiences. Outside of the classroom, I’m always up for trying new things and making the most of my time at UCR. I am looking forward to meeting new people and embracing everything UCR has to offer!

CNAS Peer Mentor, Nami Member, MSA Member, Her Campus Member

Hi everyone! My name is Dominique Hemedez, or Domo for short, and I am a fourth-year CMDBiology major and I am so excited to get to serve as your Co-Lead Peer Mentor! Before attending UCR, I developed a passion working with younger generations from volunteering at a STEM-based, interactive museum in my hometown. Alongside that, I volunteered at the oncology department at my local hospital and found a fascination with the complexities of the development of cancer and intricacies that go into the treatment, making me want to pursue the field and led me to choosing my major and eventually career goal of becoming a pediatric oncologist! Being a pre-med at UCR has really allowed me to see what a supportive community we have on campus, and I would love to continue that in any way that I can, so if you have any questions about being pre-med, let me know! In my spare time (or when I need a lil destress from my studying), I love to bingewatch kdramas and animes, collect little trinkets (especially smiskis), and go scuba diving! Again, if you have any questions about anything that was mentioned from being in CNAS, or what is my favorite smiski hehe, I would love to help out and answer in any way I can! Looking forward to a great year ahead and please stay in touch!

CNAS Co-Lead Peer Mentor, CNAS Science Ambassador, AMSA Co-President, Katipunan PSO Member, Medical Scribe, Medical Assistant

Hello! My name is Samuel Alston. I am a third-year pre-medical student majoring in biochemistry. As a peer mentor, I am determined to ensure student success within the UCR community. Outside of the classroom, I engage in various on-campus organizations/opportunities such as MSP and Active Minds, along with research within Dr. Feng's lab. Off-campus, I also actively participate in several volunteering experiences focused on helping disadvantaged individuals. Some activities I enjoy doing in my free time include community service, visiting museums, and trying new foods. I look forward to meeting with you all this year and guiding you throughout your time here at UCR. 

CNAS Scholars Peer Mentor, UCR Chemistry Department, Chemical Sciences - Feng Lab, Medical Scholars Program, The Well-Active Minds, Cope Health Scholars, Crystal Roses

Hi, all! I am a 3rd year biology student interested in the medical field. As a peer mentor, I aspire to give others guidance and a sense of welcome, as well as aid them in achieving their goals. When I am not studying or participating in clubs on campus, I am drawing comics and hanging out with friends. 

CNAS Scholars Peer Mentor, Latino Medical Student Association - Secretary, Active Minds Volunteer, Mini Medical School

Hi, I'm Samantha! I am a current 3rd-year biology major on the pre-med track. I came to UCR my first year and lived in Pentland in the Student in Math and Science Living Learning Community (SiMS LLC). Currently, I am a CNAS Science Ambassador and serve as the face of the college at official events and functions, organizing science outreach and communication event to K-12 schools. You may also find me leading sections of the CNAS Freshman Seminar course, NASC 091. I design lesson plans to ensure a smooth transition for freshmen into UCR, such as research workshops and key campus resources. I am involved in research on campus as a student researcher with Dr. Reznick's lab, taking part in fish husbandry and experiments. Under the direction of Dr. Reznick and his team, this summer I conducted an independent research project with RISE as a CNAS Scholar. Besides my pre-health interests, I am involved in Alpha Chi Omega sorority, which promotes a strong female community, and our main philanthropy is educating and informing our community on domestic violence awareness and prevention! I am here for anything pre-med, campus involvement, or even just lending a hand to plan your future goals. Together, we can make UCR become your new home away from home. 

CNAS Science Ambassadors, Dr. Reznick's Research Lab - Student Researcher, UCR SOM - Receptionist, Alpha Chi Omega, COPE Health Scholars Program - 375 Clinical Hours, EMT Certified Summer 2023. Was a Project Leader for Mini Medical School. 

Hi everyone! My name is Kytan Guu, and I am a third-year neuroscience major from Orange County, California. I currently serve as a CNAS Science Ambassador, where I am involved in outreach efforts to promote the sciences in the Inland Empire. As part of the program, I am mostly involved in Delta SIFY and Little EINSTEINs. Additionally, I work as a research assistant in Dr. Ziaoping Hu's lab in BCOE, focusing on the effects of creatine and intranasal administration. In my free time, I enjoy playing classical music as a member of the UCR Orchestra, where you can often find me rehearsing. If anyone's interested, I play the violin and cello. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a career in medicine with a strong emphasis on teaching and fostering meaningful connections with others. I hope to see you around campus!

Bioengineering Research, CNAS Science Ambassadors, CNAS Scholars, Delta SIFY, Little EINSTEINs Co-Lead, Quartet, Scribing, Temple Volunteer, UCR Honors, UCR Orchestra Concertmaster