Soni Adhikari

Hello, I am Soni Adhikari, lecturer in the Program in Writing and Rhetoric. I taught at a public university in Nepal before I came to the US, where I completed a second graduate degree at Stony Brook University. A passionate teacher of writing/rhetoric, I integrate global and social issues into the teaching of research-based writing, encouraging my students to discover and develop their own voices as emerging scholars. I help them connect their personal experiences to broader social issues. My scholarship focuses on how international students develop academic skills, given their multidimensional and evolving identities. I advocate dynamic support instead of placing excessive value on English language proficiency. I am looking forward to helping you develop a voice and confidence as you explore academe and career options.

Thien Nguyen August

Hello! My name is Thien Nguyen August. I work at Stony Brook in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. One of my favorite parts about my job is being on campus and interacting with students. I’m always so impressed when I meet Stony Brook students and working towards making higher education accessible to more students is what motivates me. My background is in communications, K-12 education, higher education, and non-profit. I was born in Viet Nam, grew up in Canada, and have lived in different areas of the United States. I look forward to connecting with more students on campus and using my experience and network to help you identify and work towards your goals.

Eric Bao

Hi! My name is Eric Bao and I’m a medical student at Stony Brook RSOM. I was born and raised in Queens, NY but spent four year in Baltimore for undergrad. In my free time I enjoy playing chess, watching the Knicks, working out, and drinking with friends.

Christine M. Cesaria

I am excited to help you navigate the waters here at Stony Brook. As a staff member, occasional instructor, and alum I am happy to provide guidance on all things Stony Brook. Before joining the Department of Computer Science as the Director of Grants, I worked in the private sector as a Marketing and Communications Director at a large civil engineering firm. I’ve worked for a start-up, as a high school English teacher, and I’ve volunteered for a number of non-profits along the way so problem solving and brainstorming ideas is what I live for. Whether you need help with a resume, tracking down SBU info, or if you want to hitch a ride to H-Mart, I’m your person.

Richard Chan

My name is Richard Chan. I am an Associate Professor with research interests in Entrepreneurship and also run the Center of Entrepreneurial Finance with several of my colleagues. I grew up in California, went to schools on the west coast, and am raising a family on Long Island. Like many here, I have been fortunate to have wonderful mentors throughout my life and would love to pass on this tradition. Looking forward to it!

Janet Clarke

My name is Janet Hyunju Clarke; I am the Associate Dean of Research & User Engagement at University Libraries.  I am of the “1.5 generation”–fellow Korean Americans may know what that means.  My academic background includes Asian American Studies and library and information studies.  I have a deep and professional personal commitment to social justice and anti-racism work.  I feel fortunate to work at Stony Brook University, especially when I meet students and colleagues who also want to foster a genuine and inclusive community.  Like others here, I have benefited from wonderful mentors, and am glad to pay it forward!

Ankit Dhamija

Hello! My name is Ankit Dhamija. I work at Stony Brook University Hospital under the Department of Surgery as a Cardiothoracic Surgeon. I am grateful for my mentors helping me along my journey and understand the importance of having someone to share ideas with. As a clinically busy surgeon, I can help with goal planning, time efficiency, and people skills. Looking forward to meeting you and working with you to reach your goals. 

Richard Gatteau

Greetings Seawolves!   I am Rick Gatteau, and I serve as the Vice President for Student Affairs.  In my role, I am responsible for supporting the success of all students through the many programs and services we offer.  I have been at Stony Brook for the last 20 years and love working with our students!  Stony Brook is a special place — and we’re glad that we have such a bright and diverse community of students from around the world.  I grew up on Long Island and attended and worked at various schools in the Northeast.  I studied Business Management while in college and always had a passion for helping people, so higher education has been a perfect fit for my skills and interests.  I live in Huntington, a town about 45 minutes West of Stony Brook, with my partner and our French bulldog, Jack.  I’m happy to meet with you in person or virtually, and wish you much happiness and success during your studies at Stony Brook.

Muskan Gupta

Hey everyone. I am a graduate student at SBU and I have 4+ years of experience in software development and 2 years experience of teaching as well and 1 year experience of mentoring students and people. I like to dance, write, code and learn more about technology. I am a author, coder, dancer, singer, blogger and youtuber as well. I will be looking forward to help you all in succeeding in your academic careers as well in your life.

Julie Huang

Hi, I’m Julie Huang. While I received my PhD in social psychology, my home department is within the College of Business at SBU, where I am an Associate Professor.  I live near the university with my partner, two dogs, 1 skittish cat, and the occasional set of foster kittens. I’ve lived in lots of places (Washington DC+suburbs, London, Philadelphia+suburbs, New Haven CT, and Toronto) before moving here so I’ve got some thoughts on the uniqueness of life on Long Island 🙂  I’m happy to meet either in person (I love to support local cafes and restaurants) or virtually, and look forward to fostering a more inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff at SBU.

Venkata Chaitanya Jana

Chaitanya, a graduate student, exudes a free-spirited and chill demeanor. Prioritizing personal growth and self-care, they approach life with ease, avoiding unnecessary worries. With a curiosity-driven mindset, they navigate academia, embracing the joy of learning over external pressures. Known for their non-judgmental and supportive nature, Chaitanya creates a welcoming atmosphere for friends and peers. While ambitious, they believe in the holistic definition of success, emphasizing personal fulfillment and happiness. Chaitanya’s presence serves as a reminder to find balance, enjoy the present moment, and cultivate tranquility amidst the demands of graduate studies.

Alysse Kavanagh

Associate Director for First Year Residential Experience & Living Learning Communities

My lengthy title just means I work with first-year students and the specialized living communities on campus. I grew up in Jersey City, NJ. I completed my undergraduate work in Psychology at Rutgers. I am presently completing my doctoral studies in Education, to where I am able to work on my passion for education reform. I found myself at Stony Brook due to various career prospects and I have been happily working here since. I enjoy playing video games (mostly league), snowboarding, and am presently learning how to surf. Looking forward to working for you and to be a support on your academic journey.

Eunice Kim

Hello! My name is Eunice Kim, and I am a rising fourth year Ph.D. student in the Molecular and Cellular Biology program here at SBU. I grew up in the NYC area and went to school in the Bay Area before working in Boston as a lab technician for two years. I’ve been fortunate to meet fantastic peers and mentors who’ve helped me at various points in my life, and I hope to pay it forward by helping other students. In my free time, I stress bake, doodle, and make crosswords.

Sandra Kim

Hello! I’m Sandra So Hee Chi Kim, or Dr. Sandy, as my students like to call me. I am an IDEA postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies, as well as the founder and co-executive director of Asian American Justice + Innovation Lab (https://www.aajil.org). My research explores the intersections of race, global coloniality, historical traumas, migration, and culture. I am passionate about education and social justice, so I see mentoring in the AAPI Mentorship Network as a way to help students gain college experiences that empower them and help set them up for making a meaningful impact in the world. I look forward to connecting with you and getting to know you better!

Suhwan Kim

Hello! My name is Suhwan (Shawn) Kim and I am a PhD candidate in the Department of Political Science. Broadly, my research interests are in political psychology and race, ethnicity and politics. My current project examines conditions under which political cohesion that crosses heterogeneity in terms of nationality/ethnicity, language, religion, etc. among Asian Americans can be strengthened or weakened. I strongly believe I would have benefited immensely from a program like AAPI Mentorship Network as an undergraduate student of the 1.5 generation. As a first-time AAPI mentor, I am excited to work with you on reaching your academic and/or career goals either via virtually or in person.

Jin Koda

I am Jin Koda, an Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy. I am studying where and how stars are born in galaxies. I used to do backpacking (I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, hitch-hiked in Malaysia, tour-guided in Vietnam, etc.). I grew up in Japan, so I know how difficult, and exciting, it is to live in a foreign country. I may be more aware of the experience of international students, but I welcome any students. I am not sure if I can call myself a good mentor, but I am happy to think and find solutions with you.

Ming Suet Kwan

I am Isabelle Kwan, a rising 2nd year MD Ph.D. student. My passion aligns with what traditional Asian parents would demand: a courteous student because I love learning. Here are some: medicine, immunology, cooking, languages (4 + 2 in progress), macroeconomics, music, etc. One important lesson I learned growing up is to advocate for myself and value my voice while seeing the 50000-foot view, being fair and kind to others. This is a lesson that I forget at times, and at other times, I remind others.

Richard F. Laskowski

I am presently a professor in the College of Business and have been with the COB for 19 yrs.  Prior to joining the COB I was the Dean of Physical Education and Athletics for 10 yrs. at Stony Brook.  I was recruited by Stony Brook to transition the Athletics program from Div – III to D – I.  I spent 19 yrs at St. John’s University in various positions in the Athletics Department, and was the Senior Associate Director of Athletics before accepting the position at Stony Brook.  During my time as Dean we made the transition to Div – I, built Lavalle stadium, and became members of the America East Conference.

Trista Lu

My name is Trista Lu. I am a higher education professional with a background in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have had the opportunity to work with students and staff in various dynamic campus settings: helping students in Study Abroad, International Admissions, New Student Orientation, Campus Life, and International Student Services. Currently, I work at Stony Brook University’s Global Affairs office. I am experienced in student orientation and transition programs, large-scale programming and event planning, international student career exploration, and resume building. I am passionate about international education and student development. 

Farah Monzur

Hello! I am Dr. Farah Monzur, a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist with an
expertise in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. I am an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Stony Brook University Hospital. I am the Program Director for the Gastroenterology Fellowship and IBD Director. I completed my undergraduate and medical school training as a part of the joint 7-year Accelerated BS/MD program between Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Albany Medical College. Subsequently, I went to Georgetown University Hospital for internal medicine residency and then finished my gastroenterology fellowship at Stony Brook University Hospital. I have lived here in Long Island since 2013. A few personal tidbits about me: a) my family is from Bangladesh and so I am fluent in Bengali; b) I have 2 wonderful kids; c) I love music, reading and traveling! I am excited to be a mentor and happy to help in any way possible! 

Maria Nagan

Hi, I am Maria Nagan, Professor of Practice in Chemistry and Interim Associate Dean for Curriculum in the College of Arts and Sciences. Over the course of my career, I have mostly taught at primarily undergraduate institutions (Professor and Chair). I have a passion for mentoring undergraduate and high school students in the sciences, especially those from underrepresented groups. I have a large undergraduate research program, employing computational models to understand ribonucleic acid structure and function. I am adopted, originally from South Korea. I have experiences growing up in a diverse city setting, attending college and teaching in a rural area with few Asians or Asian Americans, and navigating career options as a woman of color. I have a husband, 4 kids and 5 cats. My hobbies are gardening, kayaking, hiking, and biking. I’m happy to meet in person or on Zoom. I’m here to give back, be supportive and help you feel welcome!

Eva Nagase

Hi, I am Eva Nagase.  I am a senior lecturer at Asian and Asian American Studies.  I teach Japanese language and culture.  I was a so-called academic nomad until I found Cultural Studies, where I am finishing up my dissertation on “Japanese eating utensil”.  I started out as an English and Art History double major, moved on to Museum Studies, then Cultural Anthropology.  Along the way, I picked up a degree on Japanese Pedagogy.  However, I think nothing became wasted!  In addition, I am a big cheerleader for studying abroad and love to send our students to Japan in particular.  I enjoy gardening, cooking (especially harvest from our garden), eating, and reading.  We adopted a rescue puppy in March who keeps more busy than usual! 

Samantha Nash

Hello! My name is Samantha Nash and I am the Undergraduate Advisor for the College of Business. I love my job and enjoy helping students stay on track for graduation! I received both my BA in Business Administration and Executive MBA from St. Joseph’s College, and am now also a SBU student working towards my MS in Higher Education Administration. I am a huge Disney fan and love spending time with my two Beagles at home. I am looking forward to working with you on reaching your goals! 

Kristen Pelekanos

Hello! My name is Kristen Pelekanos, and I am the Student Employment Specialist at the Career Center.  At Stony Brook University, I completed a B.S. in Psychology and B.A. in Spanish Language & Literature and a M.A. in Higher Education Administration.  In my current role, I enjoy working with students to help them search for, prepare and apply to on campus student employment opportunities and connect the skills they build in their experiences to their future careers. I also have taught advising seminars for students in their first semester to connect them to the campus community.  Outside of work, I love animals, especially dogs, and I spend time with my family, focus on wellness, and enjoy listening to music. I look forward to meeting you in person and/or virtually!

Loredana Polezzi

Hi, I am Loredana Polezzi and I am Full Professor in Italian American and Italian Studies. Before coming to Stony Brook, I taught in the UK and I also have a long history of collaborations with colleagues in Europe, Australia and Africa. I work on multilingualism, translation and migration and I consider myself a language activist. My professional and my personal experience have made me passionate about promoting the recognition of minoritized voices and minoritized languages – and I am equally passionate about mentoring as a way to foster inclusivity and diversity in the academic world.

Caterina Reed

I am Caterina Reed, Instructional Support Associate for Content Acquisitions and Services within the University Libraries.  I identify as a multiracial/Filipino-American and I am also a Stony Brook alumna. While I currently work in the information science profession, I have years of experience as a career advisor. I am open to speaking with you on a variety of topics, especially relating to academic and professional development— SBU coursework, majors/minors, career paths, and life in general. My hobbies include reading, listening to all genres of music (e.g., J-pop & K-pop), learning languages, and enjoying games like chess and Scrabble.  

Jill Robins

I’m a lecturer in the Program of Academic English within the Program of Writing and Rhetoric. I teach writing to international students through PAE, and often teach other writing courses as well. The flow of ideas, stories, and experiences through writing within the classroom is so inspiring! I am mentoring to further promote that flow. I am a native of Long Island, currently living in Montauk. I have a variety of interests; some of my favorites are podcasts, weight lifting, mountain hiking, spending time with my kids and dogs, and distance running. I welcome the opportunity to work holistically with mentees.

Robin Wang

Hello everyone, My name is Ruobing (Robin) Wang and I use she/her/hers pronouns. I did my undergraduate and graduate degree at Stony Brook University and started my professional journey here too as a Residence Hall Director. I am excited to meet all of you!

Kaitlyn Seitz

Hello, my name is Katie Seitz, I am the Career Coach for the Healthcare community at the Career Center. I help connect students to applied learning experiences and careers within the healthcare industry. I was born in China and adopted at a young age and have lived on Long Island my entire life. I earned my BS in Early Childhood Education with a concentration in History at SUNY New Paltz and an MA in Higher Education Administration from Stony Brook University. The best part of my job is being able to create relationships with my students and make a difference in their college experience. In addition to my role, I have been the faculty advisor for the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) and Chinese Association at Stony Brook (CASB). I am happy to meet in person or virtually and looking forward to getting to know you!

Sunitha Singh

Hello! My name is Sunitha Singh. I am the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Coordinator for Stony Brook Medicine. I have more than 20 years’ experience in healthcare and several more than that in life! After completing my undergraduate studies at Stony Brook, I worked in basic science research before moving to England for medical school. Originally, from the New York City/Long Island area, my education and work has taken me around the world. I returned “home” a few years ago and have very much enjoyed be a part of the SB community again. I look forward to sharing my experiences with you and learning about yours. I hope to be a good sounding board for you and together, we will navigate personal and professional challenges.

Shyam Sharma

Hi, I am Shyam Sharma, Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Program in Writing and Rhetoric. My research focuses on international students, language policies/politics, writing in the disciplines, and new media in writing education. I am passionate about supporting all students; in addition, I bring personal experience and scholarly perspectives to supporting international and minority students — and that is what attracted me to be a part of this initiative. My teaching and mentoring motto is: Inspire me to inspire you back! 

Samara Sober 

Hello, my name is Samara! I am an MS3 student at Stony Brook University. I grew in Westchester, NY before moving to Boston to study behavioral neuroscience at Northeastern University. During my gap year, I worked as an EMT in the Boston during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am interested in pursuing Emergency Medicine / Critical Care, but currently enjoying the broad exposure to medicine in my clerkship year. My academic interests include ultrasound, wilderness medicine, prehospital care / EMS, and ICU medicine. In my free time, I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, roller blading, listening to podcasts, and taking care of my many plants!

Yifan Sun

Hi all! I’m Yifan Sun, and I’m an Assistant Professor of Computer Science. I work in the intersection of machine learning, optimization, and theory—in short, we try to use math to explain why machine learning tools work the way they do. Before coming here, I had a variety of experiences; a brief stint in industry, and postdocs abroad in Vancouver and Paris. I love what I do and I’m happy to talk about it. Please feel free to contact me about life in academia, research strategies and woes, or anything in between!

Anthony Szema

Anthony Szema, BSE, MD, FCCP, FACAAI, FAAAAI, FACP, ATSF has a track record of mentoring premed and medical students, as recounted in 15 Secrets for getting into Medical School: Go to Yale without Going to Jail (amazon).

Dongyan Tan

My name is Dongyan Tan. I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacological Sciences. I grew up in China and came to the US after college to pursue graduate studies. I study proteins that are important for gene regulation. My lab uses a variety of biochemical and biophysical approaches to understand their functions during normal development and in diseases. I have been the faculty mentor for GWISE (Graduate Women in Science and Engineering) for the last three years and I also work with Institute of STEM Education for outreach programs. I look forward to meeting you and to help you grow professionally and personally.

E.K. Tan

Hi, I am E.K. Tan, Associate Professor in English and the Chair of Asian & Asian American Studies. My research and teaching focus on Asian diasporic experience and culture, Inter-Asia cultural studies, postcolonial studies, and queer Asia. I came to the US as an international student to pursue my graduate studies. I am happy to share with you how I coped with life and school as an international student, and guide you through some of the challenges you might encounter during your time at Stony Brook. I have benefitted much from mentors at different stages of my academic and professional careers. I believe in paying forward by promoting a positive and constructive environment for students, faculty and staff on campus to grow as a community. I am happy to meet in person to discuss any questions or concerns you have regarding school, work, career planning, etc.

Benjamin Tausig

Benjamin Tausig is an associate professor of music at Stony Brook. He has been studying music, sound, and politics in Thailand for the past 15 years, and is currently completing his second book focused on Thailand. He teaches courses in music history, Asian music, and protest music.

Beatriz Vera

Hi! My name is Bea, and I am recent grad from Stony Brook. I have a background in Psychology and Student Affairs, and right now I am working with the Stony Brook Foundation to I am supporting fundraising goals, improving donor retention, and increasing my knowledge of the overall constituent experience field.

Kyungyoon Yoo

My name is Yoon, and I’m an MD/PhD student at Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. I was born in Korea, but I moved and grew up in Seattle when I was 10 years old. Right now, I am pursuing a medical degree as well as a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology. Outside of school, I like to watch/play soccer and cook. I have had wonderful mentors who have guided me throughout my life, and I am here to give back and be supportive!

Yongjun (Josh) Zhang

My name is Yongjun (Josh) Zhang, Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology and Institute for Advanced Computational Social Science. I received my Sociology Ph.D. in 2020 from the University of Arizona. Before I came to the U.S., I got my BA and MA at Peking University in China. My primary research interests include social movements, organizational studies, and computational social science. Currently, my work focuses on understanding racial segregation and political polarization in the U.S.  I am happy to share my personal experience as an Asian and a scholar with you on how to deal with racism and xenophobia in the workplace and job market. It would be my great pleasure to support you to succeed at Stony Brook University. Feel free to meet me either in person or via zooms.