2026–27 Atlas Mentors
Through the Buffett Institute's Atlas Peer Mentorship Program, Atlas Mentors play an essential role in supporting first-year students throughout the academic year by guiding students in their academic and personal journeys, fostering a strong sense of community, and contributing to a welcoming campus environment. Meet the 2026–27 Atlas Mentors.
Sama Abusweireh
Economics, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, '27
“Hi! My name is Sama. I know how much a supportive conversation, shared experience, or simple act of guidance can shape someone’s first year, and I want to offer that same support to other students navigating their transition to Northwestern. I study Economics while double minoring in International Studies and Business Institutions, and I’m especially interested in global affairs, development, and community-building. Outside of academics, I love exploring Chicago neighborhoods, trying new cafés and restaurants, and finding small places around the city that make Evanston and Chicago feel like a home."
Aggie Kalinska
Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '29
“Hello! My name is Aggie. I am an international student from Poland and UWC Adriatic '25 alumna. I major in Psychology, but my interests go way beyond that, from health education and advocacy, to neuroregenerative medicine. Also, coffee + apple pie = <3"
Sonia Saega
Communications and International Studies, School of Communication, '29
“Hello, my name is Sonia. I am a rising sophomore studying Communications and International Relations (for now), with a passion for cinematography, psychology, and intercultural exchange. Born and raised in Russia, I was privileged to spend my high school in UWC school in India. And now in US I keep carrying my commitment to serve the international community as the third President of our Undergraduate International Students Advocacy Council (UISAC). As you embark on your journey here at Northwestern, having a support system and a community you belong to is incredibly important. I hope that Atlas will become one for you like it became for me."
Jean Pereira dos Santos
Social Policy and Economics, School of Education and Social Policy, '29
“Hello! My name is Jean and I am an international student from Brazil, from a quilombola and rural background, now a second-year student studying Social Policy and Economics at Northwestern. Coming to college was not easy at first, and I had to navigate a lot on my own, but I was fortunate to find support that helped me feel grounded and grow here. Now, I’m really excited to give back and be that support for incoming students, helping them feel seen, welcomed, and at home in this community."
Phuong Pham
Radio/Television/Film, School of Communication, '29
“Hi, I’m Phuong. I'm a Radio/Television/Film Major from Hanoi, Vietnam! I've also spent two years living in Pune, India. Besides filmmaking, I love physical media, live music and exploring Chicago."
Mufaddal Badri
Chemical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '28
“I’m Mufaddal Badri, a Chemical Engineering student from Tanzania graduating in 2028. One thing I really like about Northwestern is how many different communities I’ve been able to connect with - I grew up around a mix of cultures, so I naturally find myself feeling at home in spaces like ASA, MENA, SASA, and honestly just anywhere people are open and welcoming. Outside of academics, I love sports, cooking, wildlife photography, and exploring Chicago whenever I can. I also work with Northwestern Football, which has been one of my favorite ways to meet people and feel connected on campus."
Kerem Aydin
Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '28
"Hello, my name is Kerem! I am doing the Bachelor’s/Master’s program in Mechanical Engineering. I love traveling and trying out new things!"
Kuda Chikono
Chemical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '29
“Hi! My name is Kuda Chikono, and I am majoring in Chemical Engineering and expect to graduate in 2029. I am originally from Zimbabwe, and I enjoy playing and listening to music. I am excited to become an Atlas mentor and give back to the community that supported me throughout my freshman year."
