Peer Mentors

The Peer Mentors for TRIO Scholars and TRIO STEM are experienced students who have a genuine interest in the educational and personal development of students. They function as a coach, a friend, and, most of all, a positive role model. Through group and one-on-one settings, the peer mentors create a safe and non-judgmental environment in order to enhance and enrich the college experience of their fellow TRIO Scholars and TRIO STEM Scholars.

Meet our peer mentors

Kayla Flores

Hello everyone! My name is Kayla Flores and I am a first generation UNR student majoring in Kinesiology to pursue a career in physical therapy. I was born in Reno, �鶹ӳ�� where we have the best mountain views. Growing up, I have always loved connecting with others around me and getting to know their experiences that lead them to be the person they are! As a peer mentor, I can’t wait to get to know who YOU are as we walk through this college journey together. Being part of the TRIO program has helped me tremendously not only in my academics but also in making me feel like I’m part of a family and that is what I hope my students will experience because it is hard to do college alone!

Outside of academics and school activities, I enjoy spending my time with the people I love, playing guitar, dancing (as best as I can), drinking peppermint tea and being active whether it be through playing basketball, volleyball, or lifting heavy things at the gym. One thing I want to accomplish in life is to learn how to swim. If any of you can give me tips, let me know. I look forward to meeting you all!

Email: krflores@unr.edu

Kaitlyn Rodriguez

Hello! My name is Kaitlyn Rodriguez, I was born and raised in Reno, NV where I attended Robert Mcqueen High School. I am currently a second-year mentor for First in the Pack, as well as having been part of TRIO STEM scholars for about 3 years. I am a junior studying business marketing. I hope to one day own a company or organization that benefits the community in many aspects. I’m passionate about helping first generation students find their way and home on campus. In my free time I love to spend time with my friends and family while we cook or watch movies. I also enjoy dancing, traveling, snowboarding and listening to music. I'm very excited to help students navigate the college world!

Email: kaitlynrodriguez@unr.edu

Ameenah Ashraf-Sykes

Hi, my name is Ameenah Ashraf-Sykes. I was born and raised in Las Vegas. I now attend the �鶹ӳ��, majoring in Neuroscience and also part of the TRIO STEM program. My ultimate goal for going to school is to get my bachelor's and see where that takes me, whether in medical school or graduate school. In my free time, I love to read, go hiking, listen to music and shop a lot. I hope you can find a home away from home at the First Gen Center and feel as supported and safe as possible. I am very excited to be a peer mentor and support others in their journey into college and so forth.

Email: Mersala@unr.edu

Daniela Hernandez Tamayo

Daniela Hernandez Tamayo headshot Hello everyone! My name is Daniela Hernandez Tamayo. I was born and raised in Reno, NV. I am currently attending the �鶹ӳ��, majoring in Public Health on the Pre-Nursing track! My goal is to get into nursing school and become a pediatric nurse to work with underrepresented communities! In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, hiking, trying new foods, and getting Dutch Bros! I am very excited to be a peer mentor and help students in their college journey!

Email: danielah@unr.edu