TRIO STEM Peer Mentor Program

Hi everyone! My name is Nayeli Garcia, I am currently a sophomore at Boise State University majoring in Radiologic Sciences. I am dedicated to pursuing a career in healthcare, with the goal of becoming an X-ray tech. In the future, I hope to become a traveling technician because I think it would be a great opportunity for me to experience new places and different cultures! As a peer mentor, I am passionate about supporting and encouraging other first-generation students as they navigate their college journey. Being a first-generation student comes with its own challenges, and I want to be someone others can turn to for encouragement, guidance, and support. I hope to help students recognize their potential. Outside of school, I love spending time with my family, traveling, and listening to music!

Hello everyone! I’m Stephanie Hernandez (she/her). I am a junior majoring in nursing! :) I aspire to be a labor and delivery nurse or work in the NICU. This will be my second year being a peer mentor for the TRIO STEM Program, and I can’t wait to create new memories with you all! As a mentor, I hope to inspire and empower students to go above and beyond, and raise confidence in your abilities to achieve your goals. Having a support system is key to success and I am more than happy to be part of that process. Apart from this role, I enjoy spending time with my family and working out at the gym. I am also into trucks and I can’t live without music!

Hello everyone, I am Diana Leon (she/her). This is my second year as a TRIO STEM peer mentor. I am in my first year in the Diagnostic Radiology Program. I look forward to helping students feel welcomed and encouraged. Outside of school, I enjoy going on hikes, eating pho, and I do photography as well.

I’m a Boise State University student studying Biology, Environmental Science, and Business. I’m passionate about healthcare, conservation, public lands, and finding ways to make a positive impact in the communities around me. I enjoy learning about both science and people, and I hope to use my different areas of study to build a career where I can help others while continuing to explore the things I care about.

As a TRIO STEM Peer Mentor, I’m excited to connect with other students, share what I’ve learned through my own college experience, and be someone they can come to for support, encouragement, or just a friendly face on campus. I know college can feel overwhelming at times, so I’m looking forward to helping other students feel more confident and connected.

Outside of school, I love camping, backpacking, and seeing how much I can explore on a weekend road trip. One of my favorite fun facts is that I’ve hiked the entire Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail! I also love spontaneous “side quests,” traveling, spending time outdoors, and discovering new places whenever I get the chance.

My name is Alice Mwamba, and I am a senior at Boise State University in my final semester of the nursing program. I am also pursuing a minor in Refugee Studies and am excited to return as a peer mentor. My goal is to become a nurse scientist and contribute to improving oncology care and health outcomes for systemically marginalized communities. After graduation, you can find me working at St. Luke’s as an oncology nurse while continuing to grow my involvement in interdisciplinary research. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling, baking, playing the piano, and, of course, spending money! I am passionate about supporting others and helping people recognize their own potential. As a peer mentor, I look forward to helping students not only reach their academic and personal goals but also feel empowered, confident, and supported throughout their college journey.

Hi everyone! I’m Kalistiane Raass. I’m currently a Junior at Boise State University, majoring in Construction Management. As a returning peer mentor, I’m excited to continue growing in this role while helping others navigate an optimal college experience. I can’t wait to keep connecting with students in our program through positive interactions and building strong relationships. A few of my interests include hitting the gym, competing in sports, listening to all kinds of music, and spending time with friends. Finding the balance between work and fun has been key to my time in college, and I’m eager to help others discover that same rhythm.