Peer Navigator Program

The Peer Navigator Program is designed to connect students with upperclassmen for regular support and mentorship. The program matches you with a peer navigator for regular meetings that encourage, give direction, and help you navigate the university successfully at no cost. Our peer navigators focus on holistic well-being by providing support, problem-solving, and goal-setting tips that assist you in reaching your educational goals.

 The Peer Navigator Program seeks to:

  • Increase sense of belonging with a built-in peer support system
  • Initiate early intervention strategies as needed
  • Provide an additional touch point via regular follow up
  • Identify barriers prohibiting student success
  • Allow students to see their peers model excellence
  • Assist in the transition between high school and university life
  • Promote healthy classroom behaviors

If you are interested in getting support from a peer navigator, apply today. 

Apply for our Peer Navigator ProgramOnce your application is received and reviewed, you will be contacted directly by a member of the Academic Engagement Team. For questions, email catherine.hernandez@wright.edu.
 

Get to Know our Peer Navigators

photo of Da-Vee Abinojar

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: I like to play video games, fishing, traveling, sleeping, being outdoors, kayaking, gardening, biking, calisthenics, weightlifting, Sports, going to the beach, snowboarding, yoga, meditating, jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, and water boarding. I’m involved on campus as a Student Ambassador for the Bolinga Black Cultural Resources Center. I’m a Student Associate for the First Gen Summer Programs. I’m also an Academic Engagement Peer Navigator and a part of the Economics club as well.

Describe your personality. I’m a relaxed, chill person that loves to make face to face connections with people. I’ve been told I’m fun to be around and easy to talk to. I’m goal-oriented and a competitive person. 

What are you passionate about? There’s something deeply fulfilling about watching a fellow student finally understand a concept they’ve struggled with — that moment when confusion turns into clarity, and their face lights up with confidence. For me, that’s where passion lives. Whether it’s tutoring a classmate in economics, organizing a study group before a tough exam, or just sharing strategies for staying, I thrive on helping others grow. Being a student isn’t just about grades and deadlines — it’s about building each other up, learning together, and making the academic journey a little less overwhelming. Supporting my peers is more than a hobby; it’s a purpose I carry with me in everything I do.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students?: I’m most looking forward to seeing how mentoring student makes a meaningful contribution towards a better future for our new students at Wright State University and beyond.

photo of Coleman  Fox

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: My hobbies include Bowling, Sewing, Thrifting , Roller Skating, Cornhole, Watching Shows and Movies, and Music.

My current involvement on campus includes Interfraternity Council Vice President of Recruitment, Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity Service and Philanthropy Chair, Social Chair, 67 Society Vice President and Treasurer, College of Engineering and Computer Science Technology Board, Resident Assistant in the Honors Hall, Established Leadership Retreat Student Team Lead, Orientation Ambassador and Club Ultimate Frisbee Member

Describe your personality: I am an optimistic and vibrant person. I believe that there can be good that comes of everything, and I love making people laugh. I care deeply for the people around me and I take any excuse to spend more time with them. I also find a lot of joy in meeting and learning more about new people. 

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about my friends, family, and the general community that I am a part of. One of my joys in life is listening to music as well as discovering new songs and artists. I love watching art, whether that is dance concerts, musicals, or any other expression. Participating in community service and raising money for the people and area around me brings me a lot of peace and happiness.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? What I'm looking forward to most is being able to see the change being made in someone's life. To have an impact on a person is one of the greatest gifts in life, and to be able to make a positive difference for so many different people will surely be very rewarding. I'm excited to meet new people and develop strong connections with my peers.

photo of Ashley Garcia

Biography:

What are your hobbies, and how are you involved on campus? I enjoy listening to music and journaling from time to time, especially to reflect and unwind. On campus, I’m involved in Amigos Latinos Student Association and Chi Alpha, which have helped me build meaningful friendships and grow both personally and spiritually. I also like attending events that bring people together and create a sense of community.

Describe your personality. I would describe myself as friendly, approachable, and dependable. I enjoy making people feel comfortable and included, and I strive to be someone others can rely on. I’m a good listener, and I enjoy connecting with people on a personal level and creating a positive environment around me.

What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about helping others feel supported and included because I know how hard it can be to adjust to new places or situations. I want to be someone who listens and encourages others, so they don’t feel alone. Making people feel like they belong is really important to me, partly because I’ve been there myself.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I’m really excited about being someone new students can count on, whether that’s answering questions, helping them feel less nervous about campus life, or just being there when they need to talk. Starting college can be overwhelming, and I want to make their transition as smooth and welcoming as possible. I hope to create a friendly space where they feel comfortable asking for help and know they’re not alone. It’s important to me that every student feels supported and connected from day one.

photo of Andrea  Hernandez

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: One of my biggest hobbies is creating YouTube videos, which allows me to express myself creatively and connect with others through content. ON campus, I'm very involved in several leadership roles. I serve as the President of the College of Science and Mathematics Dean's Circle, Director for the Pre-Dental Chapter, Vice President for the Amigos Latinos Student Association, and I'm also a Resident Assistant. Each of these roles gives me the opportunity to build community, support my peers, and help organize programs that benefit students.  

Describe your personality: I am outgoing, approachable, and someone who truly listens. I enjoy connecting with people from different backgrounds and making sure everyone feels heard and valued. I'm also proactive and enjoy bringing positive energy into any situation. 

What are you passionate about? I'm passionate about growth both for myself and for others. I strive to help people become the best versions of themselves, whether that's through personal encouragement or through the world I hope to do one day as a dentist, helping people feel confident in their smiles. I'm motivated by opportunities where I can inspire, guide, and uplift those around me. 

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I'm really looking forward to giving new students the advice and support I wish I had when I first entered college. Transitioning to a new chapter in life can be overwhelming, and I want to be a peer navigator who can guide them through the ups and downs, help them feel more comfortable, and encourage them to take advantage of all the opportunities available to them. Building those connections and watching them grow over time is something I'm truly excited about. 

photo of Alynn Hunter

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: Some of my favorite hobbies are going to the gym and taking hikes during my free time! I also enjoy making different crafts and hanging out with my friends. I am also involved on campus as the treasurer for the Black Student Union and the director of historian and archives for the Association of Black Business Students. 

Describe your personality.  I may come off as a shy person, but in reality I love to make others laugh and I love joking around. I am also a very genuine and straightforward person that likes to get straight to the point. But most importantly, I am very big on caring about those who are around me and whoever else I impact! 

What are you passionate about? I have a passion for history and learning how past events affect us today. I am also very passionate on helping others and making everyone feel welcomed. I believe that everyone's voice should be heard to gain knowledge on someone else's perspective. 

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? One of the things I am looking forward to for mentoring new students is hearing about their lives and backgrounds! I am excited to guide students into the right direction for their upcoming college careers, and show them the do's and don'ts to college. I can't wait to witness growth within the new students and I hope to build life-long connections!

photo of Jaysson Jefferson

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: Hello, I am Jaysson Jefferson, and I have some great hobbies. I enjoy working out, cooking, and listening to History podcasts.

Describe your personality: I have a very outgoing personality, I love talking to others, and I enjoy calm and relaxing days.

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about helping others. It makes me happy to help people. In addition to trying to be the change I want to see in the world.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring new students?: I'm looking forward most to seeing students that I have helped feel comfortable and succeed at the collegiate level.

photo of Heyshey Lama

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: I enjoy cooking, painting, and having deep, meaningful conversations. On campus, I currently serve as a Resident Assistant (RA) and actively host events for the Nepalese Student Association. These roles have helped me connect with students from diverse backgrounds and support them both socially and academically.

Describe your personality.  I’m a straightforward and open-minded person who enjoys learning about others through conversation. I respect different perspectives and try to create a safe, welcoming space for everyone. While I take some time to fully open up, I truly enjoy being around people and forming deep, meaningful connections. I’m also very empathetic, which helps me bond with others and be a good listener.

What are you passionate about? I’m passionate about growth both personal and in helping others realize their potential. As an international and first-generation college student, I understand what it’s like to begin with limited guidance. That experience fuels my passion for supporting others especially international and first-year students as they build confidence, find community, and feel a sense of belonging. I’m also deeply committed to my nursing career, where I hope to care for others emotionally and physically.

 What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I’m most looking forward to connecting with new students, hearing their stories, and making sure they feel welcomed and seen. I want them to know that no matter where they’re from, they belong at WSU. I hope to provide not only helpful tips and resources, but also the encouragement and support that can make their transition smoother and more meaningful.

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: My hobbies are hiking, playing basketball, listening to music, and hanging out with friends. I am secretary of the Amigos Latinos Student Association.

Describe your personality: My personality is very laid back. I am a good listener and care about helping others.

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about psychology as well as problems facing the Latino community.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I am most excited about creating an environment where the students can feel confident expressing themselves, as well as helping them build a foundation to start the year off right. 

photo of Artemio Monroy

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: My hobbies consist of photography and working on computers. I like learning about the components that make up electronics and how to improve or use them the most effectively. I work as an orientation ambassador and am involved with the Amigos Latinos Student Association.

Describe your personality: I consider myself a very reserved person, quiet at first glance. However, I enjoy interacting with people and helping them if it’s within my abilities. I want to continue to meet more people and be someone who can provide guidance and help for anyone who requires it. 

What are you passionate about?: Something I am currently passionate and eager to do is to learn more about computers and work with them, I currently want to see how I can take older electronics and work with them to make them usable or more efficient for current tasks. I want to meet more people in my same field of study and outside my field of study to further my understanding and to grasp different points of view for solving problems.  

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students?: My goal for becoming a peer navigator is to help incoming students find their place in the university, I was fortunate to find a place where I was able to get engaged with other students; I want to help students find something they relate to, have an interest in and connect them with someone who can help them grow.  

photo of Stefano Penny

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus? I enjoy playing soccer, working out, listening to music and spending time with my loved ones. I'm currently involved in Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers as the Treasurer and I work as a tutor at the Math Learning Center, which have helped me connect with other students, stay engaged outside of class and work on my social skills.

Describe your personality: I would describe myself as approachable, reliable, and friendly. I enjoy meeting new people and always try to create a positive environment around me. I’m also organized and enjoy helping others succeed in college.

What are you passionate about?: I'm passionate about healthcare industry, reaching my goals and helping others. I believe in making sure everyone feels welcome and seen, and I try to bring that energy into everything I do.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I’m excited to be very supportive for new students as they navigate campus life. I know how overwhelming those first few weeks can feel, so I’m looking forward to answering questions, sharing advice, and helping them feel confident and succeed in college life.

photo of Ray Purnell

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: My hobbies include hiking, exploring nature, and wood working. Some things I am involved with on campus are Rainbow Alliance, which is an on-campus club that works to support LGBTQIA+ students and Allies. Along with being the secretary of Metaphysical Alliance a club that works to aid in the destigmatization of metaphysical practices and teaches curious parties while strengthening socialization, community building, and cross-cultural exchange!

Describe your personality: My friends describe my personality as - very kind and caring; nearly always open to help with a problem. Incredibly patient, I can keep my head far beyond the point a reasonable person would lose their cool. Very goofy, and fun to be around in general. 

What are you passionate about? I'm passionate about creating a sense of belonging for others. I love helping people feel at home and building connections. Exploring nature and going on fun adventures with friends is something I really enjoy, it’s a great way to recharge and appreciate the beauty around us. I also take pride in being an advocate for others, whether it's supporting a friend in need or getting involved in community efforts. I believe these passions not only help me grow personally but also contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere wherever I am.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring new students?: I'm really looking forward to creating a supportive and inclusive space for new students, I want to help them feel comfortable sharing their experiences and challenges, and make sure they know they have someone in their corner. It's exciting to be a resource for them, share my insights, and help them find their place on campus. Ultimately, I want to create a supportive space where they can thrive and really embrace who they are!

photo of Isabel Reyna

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: Hi, my name is Isabel Reyna, and a few of my hobbies include playing soccer, reading, spending time with friends, and I've just recently started to hike!  I love all of the opportunities Wright State has to be involved on campus and I participate in the women's club soccer team, I'm public relations for the pre-health society, I serve on the board of graduate and honors studies, and I'm a part of our new medical scholars program.  

Describe your personality: I would say I'm more on the quiet side but once you get to know me I'll become a yapper.  I'm super adventurous and always down for a side quest.  I also love to be supportive of my friends and family and if anyone ever needs a helping hand I'd love to lend one!

What are you passionate about? I'm passionate about helping people and the best way I know how to do that is through biology!  I love working in my research lab and I'm passionate about using science to actively find solutions to heal people.

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students? I'm most looking forward to creating friendships with those I get to mentor!  I had a student mentor my first year and it was always nice to see and talk to her on campus.  

Biography:

What are your hobbies and how are you involved on campus?: I am the Secretary of the Men’s Club Volleyball Team, a brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon, and a Resident Assistant. In my free time, I like to work out, play sports with my friends, and eat good food.

Describe your personality: I’m a pretty outgoing guy. I can talk to anyone; I'll find something we both like to talk about. I'm a chill person and I can go along with whatever comes my way. I absolutely love meeting new people and bonding over shared and individual experience. I believe a crucial part of being a human is connecting with others and seeing the world from their perspective, even if only within a conversation.

What are you passionate about?: I am passionate about taking care of my body and being intentional about my health. I love being active, playing sports and working out. I’m well versed in positive nutritional practices that benefit my life and health. I’m passionate about improvement, and I love helping the people around me learn how to improve as well. I also love and cherish volleyball. I’m a huge Cincinnati sports fan (even though we are almost never good).

What are you looking forward to most in mentoring students?: I am most looking forward to making sure that the people I mentor don’t spend their first semester the same way I did. I sat in my room and did nothing most nights because I thought there was nothing for me at this school. I want to let every student that walks through my doors to be aware that there ARE opportunities for them here; there ARE people for them here.