InterConnect Program
The InterConnect program seeks to support new international students with their cultural, social, and academic transition to ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó by matching them with a current ÈËÆÞÓÕ»óie.
New students and their mentors will get to know each other through frequent individual meetings and a series of InterConnect events that will occur during the school year.
InterConnect Mentors Fall 2024
Chriselda Nguyen
Lead MentorEmail: chriseldanguyen@reed.edu
Minal Edwards
Email: minaledwards@reed.edu
Hi everyone. I'm Minal (she/her) a senior at ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Economics. Home to me are India, Oman, and the UAE but I've made a home for myself here in Portland too! When I'm not studying you can find me trying out various food cart spots in Portland or chasing the many waterfalls we have here. I adore browsing through thrift stores and cooking up new dishes to share with my roommates and friends. As an Interconnect Mentor, I look forward to getting to know you and helping make your transition into a vibrant and happy ÈËÆÞÓÕ»óie, a comfortable and fun journey!
Ezra Scheuermann
Email: scheuermanneb@reed.edu
Taya Gu
Email: tgu@reed.edu
Hello everyone! My name is Taya, biology majored dance minored sophomore student. My hometown is from Shanghai, China. I love to dance, do any kinds of sports (usually basketball and volleyball), photography, listening to music, and a tons of other hobbies. You can often find me in PAB, pool hall, sports center, and running to classes. If you enjoy K-pop, I’m one of the leaders for K-pop dance club at ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó, and I’ll be teaching some classes so just peak into our classes! I super excited to meet every one of y’all and bring you guys around Portland. What you can be excited about is the food trucks in Portland is actually really good (not kidding), I’m really picky about food and i can truly say that we have the best food trucks in the whole US. Hope to see everyone during orientation and have a whole lot of fun during your summer break:) Reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns or excitements:)))
Susan Xu
Email: xususan@reed.edu
Greetings! I'm Susan (she/her), your interconnect mentor, originally hailing from the vibrant city of Beijing, China. Now, as a rising junior at ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó, I'm exploring the fascinating world of neuroscience, trying to unlock the mysteries of the human brain. Outside of academia, my heart beats to the rhythm of music. I frequently get lost in the diverse tunes offered by Portland's dynamic concert scene, immersing myself in the city's creative energy. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I find joy in the culinary arts. If you're ever unsure about dining options in town, don't hesitate to ask for my recommendations! Although I'm naturally introverted and often find myself lost in my thoughts, I've successfully found my footing at college. So, if you identify similarly, take heart! I'm here to show you that you can not only survive, but truly thrive in this new environment. So, whether you need academic advice, foodie tips, or simply someone to chat with, please feel free to reach out. Welcome to our community - I'm looking forward to meeting
Duanyang Wang
Email: wangduanyang@reed.edu
I'm William/Duanyang Wang. I'm a sophomore, who is probably going to study physics now. I'm from Hangzhou, China, which is a beautiful city. I like every type of sport and if you are interested in going to the gym in the morning at 7:00 am, please tell me. Also, tell me if you like to play badminton, squash or table tennis. I'm eager to find someone to play these sports with me.
Xavier da Silva
Email: xavierdasilva@reed.edu
Oi I’m Xavier, and home for me is Brazil (land of soccer and samba, but I’m terrible at playing soccer or dancing samba). I am a sophomore philosophy major. You can often find me in a kitchen, since food is my biggest passion. If you need any good recommendations of good places to eat in town, or you have a family recipe that you want to trust me to attempt making, I’m your guy.
I moved to the US in 2021 to attend UWC USA, an international boarding school in New Mexico. So I get the feeling of being away from home, having to function in English, and having to find community and home away from home.
Please reach out if you need anything. I’m excited to meet you.
Khushi Naik
Email: naikks@reed.edu
Hello! I'm Khushi (She/her). I'm from India. I'm currently studying Physics and Computer Science. I've glasses and I don't like wearing them so you'll see me squint quiet often as I try to overcome my astigmatism.. I promise it's not a Death stare!!! ÈËÆÞÓÕ»ó is a unique place and I hope to help you guys have a smooth transition to college.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the program, please contact Gwen Sandford, Program Director for International Student Services.