Peer Mentor Program

I'm a sophomore at Westminster University studying business economics with a minor in data science. I am a member of the Women's Lacrosse Team as a goalie.

I've lived in Utah for a long time, but originally from Grand Junction, Colorado. I spent most of my time hiking, skiing, backpacking, and playing lacrosse.

Some Fun Facts about me:

• I have heterochromia in my eyes and eyelashes.
• I have traveled to 25 national parks.
• I have never left the US.
• My favorite movie is Rango.
• I've been playing Lacrosse for a decade.

My name is Xevani Salanoa, and I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i. I am the second oldest of 7 girls whose names also start with the letter X. Currently, I am a sophomore at Westminster majoring in Public Health and am also a part of the women’s soccer team, the Army ROTC program, and the Utah Army National Guard. I have also received my CNA license last May, aspiring to build my hours and resume to apply to PA school after undergrad. Aside from these things, I enjoy going to the beach, going hiking, baking, shopping, and taking naps during my free time.

I’m Melissa, but I go by Missy. I’m a sophomore at Westminster, majoring in Sociology with plans to pursue a Master's degree and eventually become a social worker.

A few fun facts about me:

• I’ve lived in Utah my whole life
• I love music
• I enjoy driving around aimlessly
• I love working with kids
• Baking is one of my favorite hobbies
• I love to read (but not for school!)

My name is Madisen Hone (she/her/hers) and I'm a sophomore here at Westminster University working towards an arts major with a business minor. I’m also involved with the theatre program and have been in multiple productions. I'm so excited to be a Peer Mentor because I love getting to help others and work to make a positive impact. From offering academic support to being a supportive listener, I’m dedicated to helping my peers succeed.

Hi, I'm Sunshine! I'm a Biology major as well as a Spanish & Graphic Design minor who loves the arts and outdoors. I grew up in Colorado but moved to Utah later in life. I currently work as a freelance digital artist but I'm pursuing a career in anesthesiology. When I am not studying or working, I love to explore and travel, or relax with my silly cat named Tsuki.

Some fun facts about me!

• My favorite animals are pinnipeds! (Seals, Sea lions, Walruses)
• I've been to 9 countries; my favorite was Japan!
• My favorite food is any kind of curry!
• I live backpacking, canyoneering, hiking, and climbing!

My name is Umair and I am a peer mentor here at Westminster. I am majoring in Psychology and have been in college for 5 years. I've changed my major a bunch and I would love to help you navigate the process of understanding yourself and what you would like to do. I'm easy going, and love talking to people, pottery, and climbing!

My name is Bailee Parker, and I'm a junior here at Westminster. I'm pursuing my bachelor's degree with a custom major called Justice Studies in Literature and Media (a combination of Justice Studies and LMW), and as well as being a peer mentor I am an office assistant in the Residence Life office, and a research assistant for the LMW team. I love to stay busy with being around friends, reading, writing, crafting, and baking in my free time too!

Hi! My name is Cynthia, and I’m currently a junior at Westminster University. I’m pursuing a custom major in Business Influence & Innovation, which reflects my passion for entrepreneurship, leadership, and creative problem-solving.
I serve as the Peer Mentor Coordinator and work as a Student Honors Associate (SHA) for the Honors College, where I help support academic excellence and student engagement.

Fun Facts About Me:

• I’m a first-generation college student
• I’m Bilingual (English and Spanish)
• I was born and raised in Utah
• I launched my first business at 18 years old

Hey! I’m Zevyn, your peer mentor—basically here to help, hype you up, and make college a little less confusing. I’m currently pursuing a custom major named Justice Empowered Creativity, which brings together justice studies and art—mainly ceramics—as a way to explore how creative expression can challenge injustice, foster healing, and spark meaningful change. 
I’m a lover of stories, whether they’re found in books, stamped in my passport, or written in the stars.  I see books as both mirrors and maps: they reflect who we are and guide us toward who we might become. I’m fascinated by how language shapes our understanding of identity, justice, and connection. I’ve always been drawn to new places and perspectives. Whether I’m getting lost in a novel or a new city, I’m chasing the magic of human experience in all its forms. Roller derby grounds me in strength and community, while ceramics lets me explore story and structure with my hands. And astrology? It’s my favorite cosmic compass—part insight, part intuition, and a whole lot of fun. 
At the heart of everything I do is a deep commitment to justice and creative expression. With a background in justice studies and a custom major rooted in art and activism, I’m passionate about challenging systems, imagining new possibilities, and building a more inclusive world. Whether I’m skating, sculpting, traveling, or stargazing, I’m always chasing connection, transformation, and purpose—with curiosity, courage, and compassion leading the way.

With 20 years of experience as a business owner and Licensed Massage Therapist, I bring a unique blend of professional expertise, resilience, and empathy to my role as a Peer Mentor. As a first-generation college student and immigrant, I understand the challenges of transitioning to a new environment and overcoming obstacles to achieve academic and personal goals.

Throughout my career, I have honed communication, leadership, and adaptability skills, which are critical for supporting students. My journey includes balancing single motherhood, running a successful business, and pursuing higher education, culminating in earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in May 2025. These experiences have taught me the value of persistence, time management, and self-reinvention—lessons I am eager to share with my mentees.

As a mentor, I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive community while guiding students through the critical early stages of their university experience. Whether offering academic advice, sharing strategies for overcoming challenges, or providing a listening ear, I am dedicated to helping students succeed as much as they are willing to work with me.

By combining my diverse experiences and a passion for empowering others, I aim to inspire and support my mentees to thrive in their academic and personal journeys, building a foundation for lifelong growth and achievement.