Foundation to Fly Mentoring Program

My name is Alexis Beard, but I go by Alex, and this will be my second year as a peer mentor! I’m currently a first-semester nursing student here at Kennesaw State University. I’m originally from Augusta, Georgia, and my time at KSU has been nothing short of amazing. One of my favorite parts of my experience has been getting connected on campus, building community through even the smallest interactions, and learning to step outside of my comfort zone by doing things on my own and being open to meeting new people.

I’m involved with LifeSavers at KSU, where I have served as Vice President for the past two years. I’m passionate about helping, guiding, and encouraging others to become the best versions of themselves while making the most of their time at KSU. I especially love encouraging others to step outside their comfort zone, even if that means attending a campus event alone or starting a conversation with someone new.

I believe student success is built through organization, perseverance, and strong relationships. As your Wing Leader, I’m beyond excited to meet each of you and help you navigate your college journey with confidence. My hope is that every mentee leaves this experience knowing they are capable of achieving big things, overcoming challenges, and thriving in their own unique way.

I can’t wait to meet you all, get to know you, and cheer you on throughout your first year!

Hello! My name is Altaya Allen and I am a Senior majoring in Psychology, My Hobbies include baking, spending time outdoors, photography, and painting. Interacting with students on campus from different backgrounds has been one of the most defining parts of my college experience. As a Wing Leader I am passionate about supporting first-year students as they adapt to college life, everyone's journey is different and I'm excited to help others during that journey. Student success to me is about learning from your mistakes and getting out of your comfort zone. I look forward to the year, Welcome to KSU!

I am a senior accounting major who enjoys staying busy, working, going to the gym, and spending time with my friends. I chose this position because I wanted the opportunity to help students have positive and successful college experience. Looking back on my own college journey, there are things I wish I had done differently and resources I wish I had taken advantage of sooner. I hope to use those experiences to support and encourage other students as they navigate to college. I am excited to be a Wing Leader, serve as a mentor, and help students make the most of their college journey.

Hey guys, my name is Chloe, and I am one of your newest Wing Leaders this year! I am a 3rd year pre-med student majoring in Biology with aspirations of going to Medical School once I graduate. A couple fun facts about me are that I originally from up North and moved to Georgia when I was 8 years old, as well as always enjoying a good shopping day, marvel movies, and eating my favorite foods like tacos or sushi! I love meeting new people and sparking all kinds of conversations, so I strive to make sure anyone I work with to always feel like it is a safe environment for not only your academics, but yourself as a whole and let you know there is always someone to relate to. So, good luck this semester and I can’t wait to mentor you all!

Hello! My name is Douglas Tanyanyiwa, and I'm a Senior Honors Computer Science student from Zimbabwe. My favorite memory at KSU was attending the African Students Association's Taste of Africa night and getting to see the demonstrations of different African cultures through dance, fashion, and film. Events like that reminded me that college isn’t just about classes — it’s also about finding community and discovering where you belong.

For me, student success goes beyond just academics. College is a chance to discover your purpose and goals, develop your character, improve your social skills, grow your network, and gain industry-relevant skills(hard and soft). I have made mistakes and failed, but more importantly I’ve learned from them and that’s what’s shaped me and brought me to where I am today. As a Wing Leader, I'm excited to connect with students and be the kind of role model I could have used earlier in my journey. I look forward to walking alongside the students I connect with as they find their own path at KSU and contribute as meaningfully as I possibly can to each of their journeys.

Hello and happy days! My name is Drake Kemp and I am a Junior in Architecture. I minor in business and did a year of Software Engineering. I enjoy all kinds of creative media, nature, and video games especially. I chose this position because my first year was pretty boring, and I'd like for new freshman to have the opportunities to grow and express themselves! I look forward to working with you, lets chat!

Hello, my name is Ethan, and I’m a junior Mechanical Engineering major. I stay pretty active around both campuses, whether it’s cooking demos, morning bike rides, or just events I wander into. So don’t be surprised if you see me more than once a day. I enjoy all kinds of media and visual arts, and I’d definitely call myself a bit of a cinephile.
During my time in college, I’ve had the chance to grow through so many opportunities that I wouldn’t have experienced without the support of the people around me. As a wing leader, my goal is to be that same source of support for others. I believe college is a pivotal time in life, where you can learn from so many different people and perspectives—any one of which could have a major impact on who you become. I want to support you on your college journey as you discover everything it has to offer and continue growing into an even more outstanding person because of it.

Hello!! My name is Jaidy and I am a new Wing Leader!! I am currently a Sophomore majoring in Architecture with a passion for design, creativity, and helping others. I enjoy getting involved on campus, building connections, and gaining hands-on experience that helps me grow both academically and professionally. Some of my hobbies include listening to music, traveling, and working out!!

Hello! My name is Jasmine Le Nguyen, but you can call me Jas for short! I am a sophomore majoring in biology with a concentration in human health on the pre-med pathway. During my freshman year at KSU, I worked under Dr. Mohammed Halim as a first-year scholar on his “Developing Next Generation Peptide Drugs for Neurodegenerative, Infectious and Cancer Diseases” project! Where I then presented at the 2026 KSU Spring Symposium.

My current responsibilities include being the marketing chair for the Undergraduate Research Club E-Board and a new Wing Leader for the 2026-2027 school year. Some of my passions include learning more about biochemistry, space, and the integration of medical care and research! In my free time I enjoy traveling, playing volleyball, reading, and watching movies.

One of my biggest beliefs is that a student’s college experience is their own curated adventure. Everyone’s path is different and there is something unique about each individual’s experience. Which is why as a wing-leader I hope to help be the support to help you soar as an owl! 

Hey everyone! My name is Jillianne Larkin, and I am one of your newest Wing Leaders! I am a junior Sociology major with a minor in Public Health and a concentration in Medical Sociology. I’m passionate about helping people find confidence within themselves. I’m a true believer in staying honest to myself, and that is something that I hope reflects in the time that I share with my mentees—which ultimately leads to student success. In my spare time, I like trying new restaurants, reading, and shopping. I’m excited to begin the semester!

Hello! My name is Leah Olds, and I am a second-year student at KSU. I am studying business management, and hope to become a corporate executive one day. I am a sorority sister of Zeta Tau Alpha and a KSU brand ambassador, and absolutely love attending all the fun events on campus. In addition to being a full time student, I tutor elementary schoolers, pet-sit, and babysit.  In my free time I enjoy thrifting, organizing, jogging, yoga and getting a sweet treat! I am also an avid reader, believing it is so important for your well being! One of my biggest goals in life is to spread awareness for the importance of mental health. In college I believe the freedom given to us can be difficult to manage, and it is important to listen and learn through others shared experiences. Last year, my mentor was incredible, and provided me with needed support. I too, hope to do the same! 

Hello! My name is Matthew Basila, and I am a second-year mechanical engineering major with a minor in mathematics. I am passionate about the freedom to be creative and how it can be applied to all aspects of my life. I am also always involved on campus, whether it be for a social event to connect with new people or a continuous commitment like my undergraduate research or my a cappella group. When I think of student success, I think about the steps it takes to reach a goal and the way these steps are taken; however, how close you are to this overall goal should not determine how successful you are. Even if you fall down, you have the chance to get back up, and I want to make sure that you take it every time. Having the drive to do what you need to do to achieve what you want does not come easy, but I believe with the right guidance and approach, anything on this little sphere we call Earth is possible. I hope to strengthen that drive and take these steps with you during your first year!

Hello my name is Marty Price. I am a 3rd year Psychology major here at KSU. I enjoy helping others, meeting new people, and staying involved on campus. I’m also passionate about videography and photography and enjoy using my creativity to tell stories and create content. I’m always looking for new opportunities to grow, build connections, and make a positive impact on the people around me.

Hello! My name is Maya, and I'm currently a second-year Architectural major. Some interesting things about me? I'm a dedicated anime fan, comic book reader, and I've been playing flute for 9+ years. My experience here at KSU has been filled with ups and downs; however, finding community has always been a big part of my life. Over the past 3 years at college, my core values have shifted from success and work to personal growth, kindness, and patience. I take one day at a time, and I encourage everyone else to do the same. As an architectural major, I'm passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people can feel supported, heard, and empowered. I became a wing leader to give first-year access to the community I strive to create. Student success means finding your rhythm, learning through challenges, and building together. So proud to be your wing leader!

Hi, I’m Nayela, a junior majoring in Nursing. I’m passionate about creating spaces where people feel comfortable being themselves. As a first-gen student, I’ve learned a lot by living both on and off campus, dealing with social anxiety, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. These experiences have taught me the importance of growth, balance, and self-confidence, and now I want to use them to help others feel supported and empowered as they navigate their own journeys.

Hey guys, my name is Olivia Stewart, and this is my first year being a Wing leader! I’m a junior accounting major here at KSU, but I also want to go back to school to study early childhood education. I’m someone who loves all things, beauty, fashion, event planning, and anything that lets me be creative and express myself. Whether I’m perfecting a hairstyle, putting together a cute outfit, organizing a space, or planning something aesthetic, I’m always finding ways to make life feel intentional and fun.

I stay busy on campus as a Wing Leader, my e-board position in NABA Kennesaw, and the different student engagement positions I’ve taken on, but no matter how full my schedule gets, I always make time to support the people around me. I love helping students feel confident, connected, and seen whether that’s through encouragement, resources, or just being someone you can come to for real support.

As your Wing Leader, I’m excited to bring good energy, fun vibes, and a welcoming space where you can grow, ask questions, and feel supported throughout the year. I can’t wait to get to know each of you and make this a memorable, uplifting experience for you.

Hello everyone, my name is Prentiss Dykes and I am a new Wing Leader! I enjoy nature, gaming, writing and much more. I chose this position because I enjoy helping others find their way throughout college or any other area they may be struggling or needing clarity! My definition of success would be when someone finally feels they have achieved their goals in any area. This may be academics and finally graduating, aiming for a job and getting it, and much more. I hope to grow my leadership skills throughout this process and get to know you all!

Hey there! My name is Rinna Gacusan, and I’m a second-year architecture major and currently minoring in art history. As a Wing Leader, I’m incredibly excited to meet and work with any first-year student! I always try my best to provide a safe place for everyone, regardless of background, to come to talk to me about their concerns, feelings, and anything in between. It’s the type of support that I wished I had when I was a first-year, so I’m so honored that I get to do that for new first-years! Above everything else, I am 110% invested in helping people grow into the best version of themselves.

Usually, you can find me working on something in my studio or at a club meeting for some RSOs like EQiA (Equity in Architecture). I love attending events and connecting with people, so I’m always down to tag along if my schedule allows. Make sure to say hi if you see me!

Hi everyone! My name is Saniya Perry, and I’m currently a sophomore marketing major here at Kennesaw State University. I’m someone who loves meeting new people, trying new things, and staying involved on campus. Outside of being a Wing Leader, I assist with cooking demonstrations through the Health Promotion and Wellness department here on campus, which has been a fun way for me to connect with other students and be involved in something I genuinely enjoy.

I’m an easygoing person, and I love having good conversations, making people laugh, and getting to know the people around me. I’m always open to new experiences, opportunities to grow, and I’m excited to make the most of my time at KSU. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone, creating new memories, and making this year a great one!

Hello! I am Savannah, a Technical Communication Major here at KSU, and attempting to complete a minor in Interactive Design. Success can mean different paths for different people, so I hope to join with creativity, compassion, and to show you the capability you hold, wherever you want to go. Whether you are sure or unsure of what you want currently; I can help you have a great experience here at KSU!  At this time expectations can feel high and this new world you entered can feel different. Having to now plan your time and juggle different positions like being a good student, worker, friend, and if applicable, commuting to KSU, can give you a different experience. However, this different experience can still be the same shining one that brings joy, independence, a sense of self and so much more. This is not an end to one era but the fascinating and magical beginning to another. I can be whatever type of mentor you need, a guide, a friend, or a breath of fresh air,  to join you along the way. I am glad to welcome and help you! 

Hey everyone! My name is Sifa, and I’m a second-year Sociology major. I became a Wing Leader because I want to help first-year students adjust to college and feel more comfortable in a new environment. I know what it feels like to feel out of place, especially during your first year, so I want to be someone my mentees can rely on. To me, student success starts with a student’s mental well-being. I believe that when someone isn’t doing well mentally, it can be difficult to accomplish everything else. Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering, reading, and exploring new things. I’m very excited to meet each one of you!

Hello my name is Stefania Salazar. I am a sophomore majoring in biology with a concentration in human health on a pre-med track. During my freshman year I worked as a medical scribe for a dermatopathologist. I also worked under Dr. Varholick in the first-year scholars' program. At the end of this program, I presented with my lab mate at the Spring Symposium at KSU. 

My current responsibilities include continuing my research work, continuing my job as a medical scribe, being a new Wing Leader, and working at an internal medicine clinic. My current hobbies include reading, research, and gardening. I currently have 8 orchids and plan on getting more. 

What I define as success is different for every student. I understand that every person is on a different path and everyone has different goals. Success to me has to do with an individual choosing a path that allows them to get closer to achieving their goals. Whether that be making more friends, passing their classes, and many other goals. I as a Wing Leader hope to help you and support you on your path towards your goal. 

Hey hey! I'm Susie! I am a third-year political science student here at KSU! I hope to be the person that first-year students come to during both times of joy and struggle. I want to be a cheerleader and a big sister all rolled up into one! I believe that real student success is so far from what many people think when they hear that term; it is not merely good grades or an internship by spring. While those things are a part of success, I hold that it is much more holistic. It is about being successful in all areas of life: school, family, friends, and work! 

Hi there, I'm Zaynah! I am an architecture student with a love for designing with compassion, and, in everything I do, striving to create spaces of kindness, empathy, and inclusion for everyone. I love flowers, caring for my plants, painting, and learning about the world! I’m a firm believer in approaching life's challenges as places of growth that help lift us closer to our dreams, in optimism and patience, and in embracing each day as an opportunity for goodness. Most of all, I am passionate about uplifting our first-year students and offering guidance as they succeed in their first year, whether by helping to navigate classes, life, or simply being a positive space to ask questions, talk, and dream. With my whole heart, I am grateful to grow alongside you as you discover your place at KSU!