Transfer Peer Mentors

Sayali Samjiskar (she/her) is a graduate student at SF state and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering. She is an International student who came from India in Fall 2022. She has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Instrumentation and Control Engineering. Being an International student, she understands the difficulty of settling and adjusting in a new place. She loves interacting with people, helping them out with available resources on campus and how to use them. At SFSU, Sayali is dedicated to meet new transfer students and create a comfortable bond where they can share and communicate with confidence.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Try getting out of your comfort zone. Be curious, ask questions, stay updated. This will help knowing the people and process better. Don't be afraid of changes, embrace them. And remember things don't always work according to the plan, so be patient and trust the process.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Explore the city, respect the culture and don't forget to have fun. Take out time for yourself, practice self-care and try balancing your life with work and studies.

"I can support students to become self-aware about opportunities and resources available. At times, a local provision can be over-sighted or hidden in plain sight for a non-local student, which would benefit them in their academic process."

Contact Me: sayali.transfermentor@gmail.com

Arturo (he/him) is a senior at SF State University and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design and Merchandising. He transferred from Laney College to expand his knowledge and pursue his academic goals. As an international student, he understands the challenges and difficulties of adapting to a new culture. At SFSU, he takes the opportunity to connect with fellow students, faculty members, and members of the local community, fostering meaningful relationships and building a network of support.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Take some time to know the campus and feel comfortable with your environment, don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with other transfer students. Join transfer student organizations or clubs, attend orientation events specifically for transfers, or participate in social activities on campus. Building relationships with fellow students can provide valuable support.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Look for opportunities to get involved within the community, explore the city and do not feel discouraged to reach out for assistance from others.

"I can support students by offering academic assistance and a listening ear, sometimes you just need someone to listen without judgment and support."

Contact Me: arturo.transfermentor@gmail.com

Nishtha Korde (she/her) is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Information Systems. She transferred from San Joaquin Delta Community College in 2023, where she earned an Associate of Science in Accounting and Mathematics and Science, as well as an Associate of Art in Interdisciplinary Studies. Having experienced the challenges of building new friendships as a transfer student, she encourages others to take the initiative in starting conversations. In her free time, Nishtha enjoys movies, reading, and is a budding runner.

Tip for incoming transfer students:  Get involved on campus, join clubs, organizations, or student groups that interest you. This is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and become more engaged with the campus community.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Keep in touch with friends and family for support and encouragement. It’s ok to rely on your community and remember that a strong support system can help you manage stress and stay motivated especially as you approach the finish line. 

"I can support students by offering insights into campus culture, traditions, and hidden gems. Helping your experience here at SF State, feel a bit more like home."

Contact Me: nkorde@sfsu.edu

Jeanea (she/her) is a first-year grad student in the Sexuality Studies MA program at San Francisco State, who recently received a BA in Psychology and minor in Sexuality Studies from San Francisco State as well. She transferred from Las Positas College to learn from the wonderfully rich, diverse culture of San Francisco. Jeanea is passionate about sexual health education, peer counseling, and conflict resolution, and thrives in interpersonal communication. She is involved in numerous student organizations and loves attending campus events. Understanding the importance of intersectionality, Jeanea is dedicated to uplifting transfer students' unique identities and experiences on campus. 

Tip for incoming transfer students:  Remember that you belong here! You are not alone; so many student organizations and campus resources are eager to welcome you. Attend campus events like game nights, workshops, concerts, and social mixers. You can end up creating meaningful bonds with the people right beside you. 

Tip for continuing transfer students: Be gentle with yourself. Take breaks when you feel overwhelmed. Don't hesitate to reach out to your professors if you need support because they want you to succeed!  

"I can support students by being an open-minded, supportive, and resourceful guide and friend."

Contact Me: jramirez@sfsu.edu

José Hernández (He/Him/él) studies General Business with an Economics minor at San Francisco State University's Lam Family College of Business. A transfer student from Merced Community College, he holds an AS-T in Business Administration. As a first-generation immigrant college student, José has cultivated resilience and a passion for learning and community service. He aims to pursue a master's in business to support community-eco-oriented enterprises. José's dream is to foster a society where everyone loves, respects, and cares for Mother Nature.

José Hernández (Él) estudia Negocios Generales con una especialización en Economía en la Facultad de Negocios Lam Family de la Universidad Estatal de San Francisco. Estudiante transferido del Colegio Comunitario de Merced, posee un AS-T en Administración de Empresas. José Hernández es primera generacion en asistir a la universidad y como emigrante ha desarrollado resiliencia y pasión por el aprendizaje. Aspira a obtener una maestría en negocios para apoyar empresas dentro de la comunidad latinx orientadas a la ecología. El sueño de José es fomentar una sociedad donde todos amemos, respetemos y cuidemos a la Madre Naturaleza.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Regardless of the challenges you may be facing in your personal or academic life, it is important to remember that you are not alone. A substantial transfer student community stands ready to support you. Additionally, our university offers a wide array of programs and resources designed to facilitate your success. Our collective goal is to foster a robust community where we can grow and achieve together.

Tip for continuing transfer students: As you progress in your academic journey, you have likely acquired valuable knowledge about various on-campus and off-campus programs and resources. This information could be immensely beneficial to other transfer students. We encourage you to maintain connections with our transfer community and consider sharing your insights and experiences with fellow students. Your contributions can play a significant role in supporting the success of many transfer students. 

Without a doubt, our story can inspire and motivate others y como dijó Frida Kahlo “Al final del día, podemos aguantar mucho más de lo que pensamos que podemos.”

Translation: As Frida Kahlo said, "At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can." 

"I can support students by answering their questions and offering one-on-one mentorship. I can also find useful resources for their success and connect them with college advisors, faculty advisors, and career counselors. Plus, we organize events throughout the semester where transfer students can make friends, build connections, and get involved in campus activities, clubs, and organizations"

Contact Me: jhernandezcamacho@sfsu.edu

Ray Choudhury (he/him) is a junior at SF State University who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and a minor in Urban Studies & Planning. He transferred from Diablo Valley College in Fall 2023, coming into SFSU as a lower division transfer. He knows what it is like to be a new resident and loves to take advantage of living in San Francisco by exploring different parts of the city. He is dedicated to helping others succeed and reach their goals, and finds it especially important to be someone that LGBT+ transfer students feel safe coming to. 

Tip for incoming transfer students: Get to know people in your major, talk to classmates or attend events put on by the department and school! It often takes one invitation to turn a classmate into a friend. 

Tip for continuing transfer students: Don’t stop putting yourself into new or uncomfortable situations, you always have more room to grow.   

"I can support students who are figuring out their pathway through SFSU and help locate the right resources for success. It can be overwhelming to know who to talk to or where to go, I've been in those shoes before. "

Contact Me: kchoudhury@sfsu.edu

Mariah Minten (she/her) is a student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Economics. She transferred from San Joaquin Delta College after completing college credits during high school. Because of Mariah’s unique education history, she is very understanding of the struggles of a transfer student. She is new to San Francisco and loves exploring the city and campus. After living off campus and being a new student at SFSU, Mariah has lots of experience finding resources and ways to make new friends. 

Tip for incoming transfer students: Explore, explore, EXPLORE! The biggest thing that helped me get out there and meet new people was exploring campus, the city, and new social groups. Asking someone to check out a new spot is such an easy way to get to know them and your new home!

Tip for continuing transfer students: If you’re feeling alone or having trouble finding your people, attend events for things that you’re interested in. Even if it feels silly or scary to go alone, it will be much easier to find people you relate to and want to be friends with.

"I can support students with my personal experiences and advice on how I found my way after transferring to SFSU."

Contact Me: mminten@sfsu.edu

Gavin Lopez (he/him) is currently a student at SF State and is in his last year. He is majoring in Business Administration. Originally born in SoCal Los Angeles and has lived in Belize for 3-4 years, he can relate to the difficulty international and transfer students may have adapting to a different environment and culture. He loves getting to know other people and helping them find the best way to grow into themselves. At SFSU, Gavin is focused on building an environment where transfer students feel welcomed and invited by the current student body.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Planning out the courses you want to take way in advance and reaching out to academic advisors. One of the biggest causes of stress can be trying to get that one class you need last minute and knowing what you need ahead of time can be a big stress reliever. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Engage with the community at the school even if it is outside of your comfort zone.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Patience. Sometimes things don’t play out as you imagine and that's ok whether it's academics or socially. It’s important to not be too hard on yourself and trust that it’ll all work out.

"I can support students by offering them advice on how to handle strenuous workloads. Sometimes as students, we have a lot to juggle whether it be work or just a lot of classes and it helps to have someone to assist in how to manage some of it. "

Contact Me: glopez19@sfsu.edu

Lala, a senior at State, is majoring in sociology with a minor in African studies. She has completed numerous courses at Contra Costa Community College and aspires to become an academic advisor at a community college. Passionate about helping others, she is dedicated to supporting her community in fully experiencing college life. As a first-generation college student entering her senior year, she understands the challenges of transitioning and starting fresh at a CSU. Lala is also actively involved in campus community activities.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Getting involved on campus joining a club, work/volunteering on campus. Take advantage of the Undergraduate Advising Center. Network with other professionals on campus. Build relationships with your professors and advisors. Handshake, Outlook, and Degree Planner are now your best friends(the best ways to stay connected and on track for graduation). Make a LinkedIn profile

Tip for continuing transfer students: Continue to build up your network and establish professional relationships. Keep yourself on track to graduate (keep meeting your advisor). Manage your progression through the Degree Progress Planner. Take advantage of the school resources. If you are starting to feel overwhelmed check out the Wellness Center or The SAFE place ( Free mental health resources on campus). Also, enjoy the amazing city!

Contact Me: alockett1@sfsu.edu

Nicole Magana is a senior majoring in Interior Design with a minor in business marketing. She transferred from Cal State LA fall of 2023. Nicole understands the difficulties that can come with being a transfer student at a commuter college, she’s dedicated to helping people find their people!

Tip for incoming transfer students: Attend events and join clubs! You’re likely to attract similar minded people if you put yourself out there! I know it can be daunting but your future self will thank you.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Continue to build up your network and establish professional relationships. Keep yourself on track to Surround yourself with people who inspire you! Especially being so close to graduating it’s important to set yourself up for success. Building connections will open many doors for you!

"I can support students with resource information or any advice they might need! I'm always here to help with whatever need may be! Just shoot me a email :)"

Contact Me: nmagana@sfsu.edu

Marisa (she/ella) is a San Francisco State University alumni with a MA in Comparative World Literature, and a graduate certificate in Teaching Composition. She also holds a BA in English Education, and a BA in Spanish, and a minor in World Literature. Marisa's involvement within higher education continues to inspire her as she devotes her career to students' learning and self-development. As a former transfer student who successfully navigated the challenges that many incoming transfers face, and the current Transfer Support Coordinator within the Division of Undergraduate Education and Academic Planning, Marisa aims to foster an accessible, welcoming and equitable environment for transfer students navigating SFSU’s diverse campus community. 

Tip for incoming transfer students: Talk to people! Asking questions is a sign of bravery and initiative, and is a great way to make friends.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Slow down! I know classes can be stressful, but if you have the bandwidth make time to take care of yourself and connect with others.

Contact Me: mjimison@sfsu.edu