Meet some of our Mentors!
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.
Shipra Agrawal
I am a Principal Investigator in the Nephrology Division in the School of Medicine. My research is focused on identifying and understanding the mechanisms of podocyte and glomerular injury with an aim of developing novel treatments for glomerular nephropathies and chronic kidney disease. Being born in India, traveled to around 20 countries, and settled in USA decades ago, I enjoy and value cultural diversity. Mentoring undergraduate students is a rewarding experience for me and I believe that a good mentor-mentoring relationship can have a huge impact on student’s college experience, education/career path and personal life choices. I can guide the students and help them navigate through challenges during this crucial phase of their lives.
Jungsoo Ahn
Hello! I’m Jungsoo Ahn, an Assistant Professor at Stony Brook University’s College of Business. Having lived in South Korea, Singapore, and Canada, I finally landed on the beautiful Long Island last year. I’m excited to connect with you and explore how we can support each other’s journeys!
Monique Atherton
Hello, I’m Monique Atherton, part of the Office of Advancement at Stony Brook University. Originally from Bangkok, I’ve had the privilege of living in several countries and cities before settling on Long Island. My experience spans the arts, finance, international trade policy, creativity, networking and goal setting. I can also help with first-generation student experiences and LGBTQ+ support.
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.
Sai Boddeti
I’m a current Master’s student in Data Science at Stony Brook University, excited to be part of the AAPI Mentorship Network. As someone in the midst of my graduate studies, I’m eager to share my recent experiences with fellow students, especially those just starting their academic journey. I can offer insights on: – Managing the challenges of graduate-level coursework – Adapting to the U.S. academic environment – Navigating research opportunities and internship applications – Balancing studies with personal life While I have much to share, I’m also looking forward to learning from others. I believe in the power of community and am excited to connect with others in the AAPI network at Stony Brook. By participating in this program, I aim to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to a supportive environment for my peers.
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!
Tim Chin
Timothy “Tim” Chin is the new Graduate Program Coordinator in the Department of Economics. Tim is originally from Miami, Florida, and has recently returned to Stony Brook after four years away. He has 14 years of experience in higher education, working in various roles within Student Affairs. Tim earned his Associate of Arts from Miami Dade College, his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice and Public Administration from Florida International University, and his Master of Science in College Student Affairs with a concentration Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Nova Southeastern University.
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!
Rick 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.
Ziqi Guo
Hi, my name is Ziqi Guo! I am from Brooklyn, NY and spent four years in Ithaca for my undergraduate. I am currently a medical student at Renaissance School of Medicine. I spent a year in Boston during my gap year. I enjoy cooking, baking, and traveling. My favorite sport to play and watch is volleyball.
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.
Shannon Hu
Hi! My name is Shannon and I am an M2 in the MD/PhD program here at Stony Brook. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago as well as Hong Kong, and outside of class and research you can find me laying on a beach, shopping in NYC, or cuddling with my cat. Mentorship has been pivotal my journey to medicine and I am excited to pass down advice and knowledge that has been helpful for me!
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.
CJ Jana
Venkata Chaitanya Jana is a returning mentor for the AAPI program at Stony Brook University, where he is pursuing a Master’s in Data Science. He also serves as the Productions Director for the Graduate Student Organization (GSO), coordinating events to enhance campus life for graduate students. Chaitanya’s attention to detail ensures smooth event execution, fostering community and inclusivity. As a mentor, he is dedicated to supporting and empowering AAPI students, helping to create a welcoming and vibrant community at Stony Brook University where all students can thrive.
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 Assistant Professor in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies, as well as the founder 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!
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.
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.
Denise Monte
I am a Board Certified Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeon. I specialized in Pediatric Otolaryngology. I completed a BA in Chemistry at Binghamton University in 1987. I was an Alpha Omega Alpha graduate of Upstate Medical University in 1991. I completed my Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency at Albany Medical College in 1996. I also completed a mini-fellowship in Sinus Surgery at Shadyside Hospital in 1996. I was Chief of Pediatric Otolaryngology-HNS at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University for 12 years, from 1996-2008, followed by 10 years in private practice.
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!
Naomi Nguyen
I am a fourth-year medical student at Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, reading, baking, and trying out coffee shops.
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.
Kristen Pelekanos
Hello! I’m Kristen Pelekanos, and in my work, I support Enrollment Communications at Stony Brook University. I’m also an alum having attended Stony Brook as an undergraduate and graduate. In my current role, I work to help students applying to SBU until their first day of classes. I enjoy teaching first-semester seminars to connect students to the campus community. Outside of work, I enjoy a welldone story in most genres and love finding stories in other formats, so feel free to share recommendations that aren’t books! I look forward to meeting you in person and/or virtually!
Kanthi Raja
Kanthi Raja is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in New York. She received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University in 2021. She completed her APA accredited doctoral internship at SUNY – Stony Brook in Stony Brook, NY. Kanthi also holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from Case Western University and worked as a Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years prior to obtaining her doctorate. Her doctoral and post-doctoral training focused on the needs of students in the university mental health system. She is especially interested in meeting the mental health needs of women particularly as they relate to identity.
Caterina Reed
My name is Caterina Reed and I am an Academic Engagement Librarian at Stony Brook 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, figure skating, and enjoying games like chess and Scrabble.
Sofia Reyes
My name is Sofia Reyes. I am an alum of Stony Brook University and a first generation Filipino-American who was born and raised in New York. Growing up in a traditional Filipino household, I understand the issues of cultural identity (or lost identity), stereotyping (yes, I am a nurse), and trying to forge a path (without disappointing family). I am happy to be a sounding board and share my experiences.
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.
Katie 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!
Tom Sexton
Dr. Sexton worked for 8 years in the aerospace industry before coming to Stony Brook in 1977. He has served as Director of the Harriman School (the predecessor of the College of Business) and as Associate Dean of the College of Business. Dr. Sexton is internationally known for his research in Data Envelopment Analysis, a mathematical model that measures the efficiency and performance of complex organizations such as hospitals, nursing homes, school districts, and transportation systems. He has also done considerable research in healthcare management. Dr. Sexton teaches business statistics and decision sciences in both the undergraduate and graduate programs.
Usama Shaikh
My name is Usama M. Shaikh (he/him), and I serve as the Assistant Chief Diversity Officer for Stony Brook University and Stony Brook Medicine in the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives. I have over 24 years’ experience in Student Affairs and in the office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I am a 1.5 generation Pakistani-American who immigrated to the USA with his family to Queens, NY at the age of 13. I am passionate about holistic development of self, and I welcome the opportunity to teach and learn with mentees.
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!
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.
Samara Sober
My name is Samara! I am MS4 here at Stony Brook. I grew up in Westchester, NY but spent 5 years in Boston studying behavioral neuroscience at Northeastern University and working as an EMT. I am applying to general surgery this cycle and I’m particularly interested in trauma and critical care. I have been a mentor with the AAPI Mentorship Network since my first year of medical school. My own mentors have been instrumental in my journey as a first-generation physician in training. I enjoy giving back by supporting other students navigate their own medical professional development.
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.
Amy Wang
Hello! My name is Amy Wang, and I am a PhD student in the Social & Health Psychology program. I grew up in the suburbs of Boston, then completed my undergrad at Brandeis University as a Biology and Psychology double major. My research lies in the intersection between health, science communication, and identity. Outside of work, I love creative writing, drawing, and gaming. I have had many fantastic mentors throughout my life, but never a mentor who was Asian. I am excited to work with you and help support you through your goals!
Michael Wang
Hello! My name is Michael Wang and I’m currently an M2 at the Renaissance School of Medicine. I grew up in the Bay Area in California and moved to Los Angeles to study Biochemistry and Accounting at UCLA. I worked as a medical assistant at a Multispecialty Clinic in Beverly Hills for one year before moving to Stony Brook for Medical School. In my free time, I enjoy working out, drumming, and playing pickleball with friends.
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.