Peer Mentorship Program
One of the most exciting resources that Westcliff Student Life offers is the benefit of the Peer Mentor Program. The goal of this program is to connect current Westcliff students with exemplary individuals with a passion for building community and sharing their experiences with their peers.
Who are Peer Mentors?
Our peer mentors are well-trained students or alumni from Westcliff with stellar student life experience. These mentors are eager and well-equipped with resources and knowledge to begin assisting you on your path toward your goals!
What’s the Peer Mentorship Family?
When you sign up to be a mentee you’re not just signing up for guidance, you’re choosing to actively participate in a thriving community of students just like you. The Peer Mentors take joy in meeting other students and strive daily to develop their skills to serve the Westcliff community every day.
Meet our Peer Mentors
Name: Carole Maksoud
Program of Study: Master of Business Administration
Fun Fact: I’m the happiest when I’m soaking up the sun on the beach.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I find fulfillment from assisting others in overcoming challenges and unlocking their full potential. I also believe that my passion for helping, empowering, and providing support will reflect positively on other students. Particularly, I am looking forward to sharing my experience with those who might be struggling to adjust to a new academic and cultural environment.
Name: Syeda Mahum Fatima Zaidi
Program of Study: Master of Business Administration
Fun Fact: I appear calm and composed externally, yet harbor a concealed appetite for adrenaline-fueled excitement.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I decided to become a peer mentor because being able to pay it forward fills me with purpose. There’s a profound satisfaction in guiding others toward understanding and achieving their deeply held aspirations. To me, it’s not just about conveying information; it’s about creating a community where knowledge is shared, and collective growth reaches its highest potential.
Name: Rasel Mahmud Jewel
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Fun Fact: I love to sleep on the green grass under the open sky and dream of flying while I’m falling asleep!
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I am passionate about working with a diverse student community, and my role as a peer mentor will provide me with the perfect opportunity to do so. This position will allow me to develop the skills needed to balance professionalism with friendship while fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. As a peer mentor, I aim to bridge the gap between students and Westcliff University, creating meaningful connections and helping others thrive. It is a wonderful chance to make a positive impact.
Name: Shambhu Siwakoti
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Fun Fact: My last meal on Earth would be momo (steamed dumplings filled with meat).
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I am already working as a peer mentor and I have already helped many students who were struggling in their academic, carrier, mental health and other problems that have direct impact on their Westcliff student life. I feel so satisfied when my mentees come back with their success stories after the mentoring session with me. In conclusion, I am enjoying my role of mentor and I am also learning so many skills through training and experiences.
Name: Stephanie Kate Cruz
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Fun Fact: I just started snowboarding in 2020!
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I wanted to be a peer mentor to help students get out of their comfort zone and thrive both in campus and professional lives.
Name: Firas Marrash
Program of Study: Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
Fun Fact: I love the Beach, cooking and classic cars.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I am very passionate to continue the journey of the Peer Mentorship program because helping others and seeing them succeed in their academic life and careers brings me joy. Especially since I was a student myself and encountered most of the challenges that most students face when they begin this endeavor. Throughout this mentorship program, I have witnessed multiple success stories of international students that requested to be mentored. Being part of this program when it was launched gives me more motivation to always participate and share more ideas to improve it, make it better and eventually play a role in Educating, Inspiring, and Empowering Westcliff’s students.
Name: Md Ashikur Rahman
Program of Study: Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
Fun Fact: I love to eat, and traveling is my passion. I’m also a blogger and run my own YouTube channel “Ashik & Mohona’s Vlogs USA” where I share my experiences.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I decided to become a peer mentor because I genuinely enjoy supporting others in their journey especially those who are navigating new environments, challenges, or transitions. When I first started, I benefited from people who guided me, answered my questions, and encouraged me when things felt overwhelming. Becoming a peer mentor is my way of giving back and creating that same safe, supportive space for others. I believe that mentorship isn’t just about sharing knowledge it’s about listening, empowering, and building confidence in others so they can succeed in their own unique way.
Name: Reshma Leslie
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration
Fun Fact: As a lawyer and mom to a 6-month-old, I’m equally skilled at drafting legal arguments and negotiating nap schedules—both require patience, precision, and a strong cup of coffee!
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I am passionate about mentoring and guiding others, and I believe my diverse academic and professional background can add value to the Peer Mentor Program. As a current DBA student with teaching and legal experience, I understand the challenges students face and want to help them navigate their academic journey. This role also aligns with my goal of developing leadership and communication skills in a collaborative university environment.
Name: Dilip Vishwakarma
Program of Study: Master of Business Administration
Fun Fact: When I’m not analyzing numbers, you’ll find me writing short poetry—because even Excel sheets need a little rhythm!
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I became a peer mentor to support others the way I was supported. Sharing my experiences in finance and academics helps others grow, and I find it rewarding to contribute to their success.
Name: Zahra Zarei
Program of Study: Doctor of Business Administration – Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
Fun Fact: I’m fascinated by how people live around the world—their stories, routines, and what makes each culture unique.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I joined the team because I believe student leadership can truly shape a positive campus experience. I love building initiatives and guiding others toward success.
Name: Tasfiqur Rahman Piyal
Program of Study: Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM)
Fun Fact: I love singing out loud !! specially when nobody is listening to it.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? I decided to be a peer mentor in order to turn shared struggles into stepping stones, sparking growth through empathy, insight, and authentic human connection.
Name: Jasmeen Kaur Matta
Program of Study: Masters of Business Administration
Fun Fact: Its fun to have me around.
Why did you decide to become a peer mentor? To support others through shared experiences, help them grow, and create a positive, encouraging community where everyone feels valued and empowered.
How to get mentored? Set up an appointment?
Being in college can be a difficult time but it doesn’t have to be! Get some advice from an experienced Westcliff Warrior who’s equipped with numerous resources in addition to being an active and thoughtful listener. The peer mentor program offers 1:1 sessions with assigned mentors in addition to social events for mentors & mentees. Reach out with the form below and request a mentor below.