Transfer Peer Mentors

Stephanie (she/her) is a senior at San Francisco State University, the first in her family to graduate high school and a proud indigenous first-generation college student. After transferring from City College of San Francisco with an A.A.-T. in Child and Adolescent Development and an A.S. in Social and Behavioral Science, she is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Child and Adolescent Development and Psychology with a minor in counseling. In addition to being a full-time student and peer mentor, Stephanie is an active member of the Native American Cultural District and volunteers in gardening, holistic health, and wellness events for families. She believes in empowering students to embrace who they are and respects each person's lived experiences.

Tip for incoming transfer students: The campus community is for you and provides resources and connecting points to support your educational journey. Getting involved can be beneficial and allow you to build on your strengths.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Don't be afraid to ask for help no matter the circumstance. You've already proved how incredible you are regardless of adversity.

"I can support students with: Navigating resources, advocacy, finding a balance between academic and personal life, and professional development opportunities."

Contact Me: stephanie.transfermentor@gmail.com

Deja Carr (she/her) is a junior at SF State University, pursuing a double major in Psychology and French with a minor in Africana Studies. She transferred from Los Medanos College to delve deeper into her academic passions and connect with new communities. As an African-American Muslim, Deja is deeply committed to learning about cultures and connecting them to their roots. She genuinely loves languages and is enthusiastic about mental health and wellness, constantly seeking to expand her knowledge in these areas. At SFSU, Deja is dedicated to fostering inclusive spaces and advocating for the diverse needs of transfer students.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Take advantage of orientation programs, join clubs, and attend campus events to meet people and build connections. This will help you settle in quicker and feel more at home in your new academic environment.

Tip for continuing transfer students: Make sure to explore and utilize the various resources available to transfer students, such as academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling. These resources can help you stay on track academically and make the most out of your time at your new institution.

“I can support students by actively engaging in creating inclusive spaces, offering mentorship, and advocating for resources tailored to the diverse needs of her peers."

Contact Me: dejacarr.transfermentor@gmail.com

Rishika Patel (She/Her) is a senior at SF State and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She transferred from Ohlone College to SFSU in the Fall of 2022 after receiving her Associates degree for transfer (AA-T). She has experience with both commuting and living on campus. She loves helping students find resources on-campus and providing them with support as they pursue their goals. She is a friendly, fun-loving person. She’s genuinely enthusiastic about meeting new students, making friends, and starting conversations on any topic, especially mental health. At SFSU, Rishika is dedicated to creating supportive open spaces for transfer students to communicate their needs and to providing them with the assistance they need.

Tip for incoming transfer students: Always ask questions, it shows courage and it will help a lot while you are at SF state and in life overall. Also try to make friends in every course you take, it will help you feel a sense of support and you will feel less isolated in your classes :))

Tip for continuing transfer students: Do not be afraid to reach out when you need help, SF State has a lot of resources made so that students can take advantage. Also explore the campus when you have the time. It is a big campus with a lot of utilities and centers that students can use :))

"I can support students by actively providing safe and open spaces to talk, provide advice, guidance, and share resources"

Contact Me: rishika.transfermentor@gmail.com

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

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