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 2025–26 Atlas Mentors.
Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '28
“I look forward to being an Atlas Mentor and helping students who might be in the same position I was during my freshman year. Looking forward to meeting you!”Mohammad Alkhodari is a second-year international student from Palestine majoring in mechanical engineering with an interest in art and architecture. Mohammad loves traveling to visit diverse places all over the world and learning new languages and cultures.
Biology and Psychology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, '26
“I'm so excited to be a mentor and help others find joy and belonging in this community. I have a lot to share with you, I can't wait to find out what your favorite Evanston/Chicago restaurant or Northwestern tradition will be.”Andre Avellar is a fourth-year studying biology and psychology. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he has been deeply involved in campus life since his first year. He currently works as a Global Wildcat Coordinator in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and serves as both a Peer-Guided Study Group Leader and Teaching Assistant. He loves biking along the lake, hanging out with friends, cooking Brazilian food, and grabbing iced caramel lattes from Colectivo Coffee.
Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '28
“I love meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds; learning about others’ experiences is something I find really meaningful. Fun fact: I have a parrot!”Kerem Aydin is a second-year student from Turkey majoring in mechanical engineering who enjoys seeing theater shows in Chicago.
Computer Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '27
“I’m excited to be a mentor and give back to the community that has given me so much.”Yafet Hailu is a third-year studying computer engineering. Yafet is originally from Ethiopia but have proudly called Chicago home for the past few years. In his free time, he loves biking through the city’s neighborhoods and cooking.
Economics and Political Science, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, '28
“I am really looking forward to connecting with you and making the most of all that Northwestern and Evanston have to offer!”Karo Harutyunyan is a second-year majoring in economics and political science with a certificate in sustainability and energy. Karo’s academic and career interests lie at the intersection of public policy, sustainable development, and international trade. On campus, he is actively involved in consulting and business clubs as well as the Armenian Student Association. In his free time, Karo loves watching movies and hiking.
Journalism and International Studies, Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, '26
“This is my second year as an Atlas mentor, and it’s been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. I became close friends with my mentees last year, and I’m really looking forward to helping new students feel at home and build a community here in the U.S.”Sophia Sorochinskaia is a fourth-year studying journalism and international studies, originally from Russia. Sophia enjoys walking by the lake with friends, cooking Eastern European food, and playing chess.
Economics, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, '28
“I am so excited to be an Atlas Mentor this year and share all the cool opportunities with new students!”Nina Tsoy is a second-year studying economics with a minor in data science. Nina is from Russia and currently lives in South Korea.
Mechanical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, '28
“I am excited to be a mentor because a bit of guidance in a new environment can make a big difference, and I can't wait to help new students feel at home.”Wen-Yam Zongo is a second-year majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in artificial intelligence. From Burkina Faso, Wen-Yam is currently chasing new hobbies like photography, crochet, and exploring the free activities around Chicago. She also enjoys trying out new restaurants.