University Honors Ambassador Program

The University Honors Ambassador Program is a competitive leadership opportunity for any Honors student who wishes to develop leadership, event management, and interpersonal skills. University Honors Ambassadors work with the Honors team to enhance student development through peer mentoring, conducting outreach for prospective Honors students, and coordinating extracurricular activities for Honors students.
Applications open spring quarter.
Note: First-Year Honors students can email the University Honors Co-Chief Ambassadors below for questions about Honors or a 1:1 appointment. Meeting with a Co-Chief Honors Ambassador will not count towards your Group Peer Counseling requirement. In the event that the Honors Co-Chief Ambassadors cannot answer your question you can then reach out to your designated Honors Counselor via email.
- Gain professional development skills
- Network with faculty, staff, and campus partners
- Help build a community of motivated and talented Honors students
- Become eligible for the Honors leadership scholarship up to $3000
- Be a current first-year, second-year, or third-year Honors student
- Minimum 3.300 cumulative GPA
- Be available to serve for the entire academic year
- Commit five to eight hours per week
- Attend and participate in mandatory trainings and meetings
- Develop and execute workshops or activities throughout the academic year
- Assist with and promote Honors-sponsored events and activities
- Support and mentor incoming University Honors students
- Provide ideas and feedback related to building the University Honors community
Student Ambassadors
Co-Chief: A. Tafoya

View More ►
Hi! I'm Tafoya. I am a fourth-year double-major in psychology and education, society, and human development. I am actively involved in two research labs and multiple clubs that align with my interests. I aim to receive a Ph.D. in child clinical psychology and pursue a career in research and assessment. As an Ambassador, I strive to provide you with all the resources necessary for you to succeed and thrive in University Honors! I can't wait to meet you!
Pronouns: she/they
Email: atafo010@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology and Education, Society, and Human Development | On-Campus: Research Assistant in Two Psychology Research Labs, Psi Chi, R'Brains, Girl Gains |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: Peer and Cultural Impacts on Latine Adolescent and Young Adult Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms | Interests: Working Out, Watching Sports, Reading, Trying New Coffees, Spending Time with Loved Ones |
| Career Goals: Professor of Clinical Psychology | Hometown: Whittier |
Co-Chief: Motunrayo Ojute

View More ►
Hello! My name is Motunrayo Ojute, but I usually go by Tunrayo. I am a fourth-year education major and am passionate about researching the role of AI in youth mental health. I grew up in the South Bay in a vibrant Nigerian community. Outside of school, I love to write songs, play the piano and guitar, take photos, and try new recipes. If you have any questions or need any assistance, I would be happy to help!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: mojut001@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Education: Learning and Behavioral Studies | On-Campus: Community Engaged Learning |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: My research investigates the role of AI in youth mental health, focusing on now teenagers and young adults utilize these platforms and the primary drivers behind their usage. | Interests: Baking, Songwriting, Videography, Photography |
| Career Goals: Mental Health Therapist | Hometown: Los Angeles |
Gennalyn Bongolan

View More ►
Hi everyone! I'm a fourth-year biology major interested in pursuing a career in pediatrics. Outside of school, I'm a bit of a coffee addict and love to unwind by singing or playing piano for fun. I hope to use my experience in University Honors to help you navigate the Honors experience and make the most of your time here. I'll see you around campus!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: gbong001@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in Fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Biology | On-Campus: Research Assistant in the Stroke NeuroRecovery Lab |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: Hospital Volunteer at Community Hospital of San Bernardino, Volunteer Crisis Counselor at Crisis Text Line |
| Research: Optogenetic Approaches to Motor Recovery in Stroke Patients |
Interests: Singing, Piano, Ukulele, Getting Coffee |
| Career Goals: Physician | Hometown: San Diego |
Carissa Dinh

View More ►
Hi everyone! My name is Carissa, and I'm a third-year psychology major on the pre-med track! I'm involved in a research lab on campus, as well as several on-campus clubs. I'm so excited to meet you all and be a source of support as you navigate your first year as Honors students! I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone and helping you succeed throughout your first year!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: cdinh003@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology | On-Campus: American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative |
| Year in Honors: Third Year | Off-Campus: Research with Children's Hospital of Orange County and Volunteer at a Dog Shelter |
| Research: Neurodevelopment of Children | Interests: Pilates, Hiking, Shopping, Trying Fun Cafes, Eating |
| Career Goals: Physician | Hometown: Orange County |
Jhanvi Doshi

View More ►
Hi! I'm Jhanvi Doshi, and I'm a second-year neuroscience major on the pre-med track. I aspire to go to medical school and pursue a career as a physician specializing in neurology. Outside of school, I love to dance, try out different match spots, and paint a fresh set of nails. I look forward to getting to know you all and helping you get the most out of your Honors experience!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: jdosh007@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Neuroscience | On-Campus: Director of Events for A Friend in Me UCR, Marketing Intern for UCR Health Clinical and Administrative Program, Phi Delta Epsilon General Member |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: Part-Time Tutor at Step Up Tutoring, Logistics Chair for National Desi Dance League |
| Research: Interested in Neuroscience Research | Interests: Dance, Doing Nails, Cafe Hopping |
| Career Goals: Physician (Specialization in Neurology) | Hometown: Walnut |
Eva Grichanyuk

View More ►
Hey guys! My name is Eva (ye-va), and I'm a second-year psychology major on the pre-med track. I was born in Uzbekistan, grew up in Van Nuys, and now live in Santa Clarita. In the future, I hope to become a physician, and I'm currently interested in pediatrics, emergency medicine, and/or pathology! Outside of academics, I love movies, shows, books (including comics), trying new things, and spending time with others. If you have any questions or need any assistance, I'm always happy to help!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: egric002@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology | On-Campus: Early Childhood Education Center Intern |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: Hospital Volunteer |
| Research: Interested in Psychology (Social, Criminal, Archeological) | Interests: Reading, Film, Anything Nerdy |
| Career Goals: Physician | Hometown: Santa Clarita |
Jax Harrell

View More ►
Hello! My name is Jax, I'm a second-year biochemistry major with a medical sciences emphasis, and I hope to someday attend medical school and work in the pediatric oncology field. I work in marketing for the Student Recreation Center and am also a research assistant. When I'm not booked and busy, I love playing video/board games and reading. Most of all, I love talking to people, so please feel free to reach out!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: jharr150@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Biochemistry | On-Campus: Student Recreation Center Rec Squad Member, Research Assistant (PADLab) |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: UCR PADLab: Directed by Dr. Franchak: Focuses on how motor development shapes infants' learning about objects and people | Interests: Video Games, Reading, MTG, Anything with Friends |
| Career Goals: Pediatric Oncology | Hometown: Poway |
Zoe Huang

View More ►
Hi! My name is Zoe, and I'm a second-year psychology major also pursuing a political science minor. I hope to earn my Ph.D. and continue contributing to the fields of developmental and neuropsychology withing both industry and academic settings. Outside of class, I'm either watching hockey with my roommate, re-watching the entire Star Wars franchise, or planning my next dinner party! I look forward to meeting everyone, so please don't hesitate to reach out!
Pronouns: she/they
Email: zhuan254@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology | On-Campus: Research Assistant for the Perception, Action, and Development Lab |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: Infant Motor Development in Relation to Caregiver Speech Input | Interests: Movies, Music, Making Lattes |
| Career Goals: Research Psychologist | Hometown: San Diego |
Siya Katudia

View More ►
I'm fond of baking and experimenting in the kitchen, whether it's making smoothies or trying new recipes. I'm also passionate about fashion and love styling outfits, making mood boards, and finding inspiration on Pinterest. Café hopping and traveling are some of my favorite ways to spend time. I look forward to sharing my experiences and helping fellow students make the most of their college journey at UCR.
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: skatu003@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Data Science | On-Campus: Resident Halls Association, Association of Computing Machinery |
| Year in Honors: Third Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: N/A | Interests: Trying New Skincare Products, Marvel |
| Career Goals: I aspire to work as a data analyst for a leading haute couture company, supporting innovation and strategy through data. | Hometown: Mumbai, India |
Aryenn Kumar

View More ►
I'm a second-year actuarial science student. I'm interested in statistics and using quantitative skills to solve real world problems. Outside of school, I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, exploring new places, and spending time with friends. I'm excited to be an Ambassador for the Honors community.
Pronouns: he/him/his
Email: akuma201@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Actuarial Science | On-Campus: Future Business Leaders of America, The Actuarial Science Club |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: Part-time Employment |
| Research: Interested in Statistics and Financial Risk | Interests: Hiking, Gym, Music |
| Career Goals: Actuary | Hometown: Brea |
Ahmed Muhtadi

View More ►
Hello! Fun fact about me: I like talking philosophy, even with no expertise in it. I enjoy meaningful conversation and am always willing to provide my input on things. But, normally, I am chill, laid back, and try to stay to myself.
Pronouns: he/him/his
Email: amuht003@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Microbiology | On-Campus: N/A |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: Quantifying Lipopolysaccharide within Salton Sea Dust | Interests: Basketball, Gaming, Talking, Tomfookery |
| Career Goals: Environmental scientist in a state-level position | Hometown: Reseda |
Vanessa Nunez

View More ►
Hi! My name is Vanessa, and I am a fourth-year pre-law student! Academically, I have always been passionate about studying U.S. history, specifically from 1840-1945. Over time, this has expanded to also include legal history, which led me to pursue law & society concentration and a double-major in political science. Aside from school, I enjoy being involved on campus and taking advantage of all UCR has to offer; you will always find me at some organization/club-sponsored event. I love listening to music, specifically Declan Mckenna, Wallows, and the Smiths. Whether you have questions about campus involvement or need any help at all, I look forward to helping fellow University Honors students in any way I can!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: vnune027@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: History/Law & Society and Political Science |
On-Campus: Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, Minority Serving Institution Research Academy Fellow, Lawtinx Pre-Law Club, History Enthusiasts, Moot Court, Secretary of Art Factory, Co-President of Liasons for Education and Policy, Virtual Reality x Club, Public Health Peers Volunteer, TRIO Scholars |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: The Impacts of Urban Development on Communities of Color |
Interests: Building Legos, Listening to Music, Watching Movies, Attending On-Campus Events & Programs, Doom Scrolling |
| Career Goals: Medical Malpractice Attorney | Hometown: San Ysidro |
Hailey (Lee) Pentolino

View More ►
Hi! My name is Lee, and I'm a transfer student here at UCR. I love tattoos, horror movies, and anything Halloween themed. My favorite video games are Deltarune and Disco Elysium. My favorite band is Car Seat Headrest. I am passionate about researching the intersections of psychology, religion, and identity, with a focus in Christianity. My motivation in my research lies in uplifting often unheard voices in the religious community. I focus specifically on queer homeschoolers in my Honors capstone project.
Pronouns: any/all
Email: hpent002@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in Fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology | On-Campus: Performer President of Drag Club and UCR |
| Year in Honors: Third Year | Off-Campus: Compete in International Defensive Pistol Association Matches |
| Research: Queer Identity in Christian Conservative Homeschooling |
Interests: Writing, Drawing, Reading |
| Career Goals: Therapist | Hometown: Claremont |
Madison Ramirez

View More ►
Hi! My name is Madison Ramirez, and I am a second-year cell, molecular, and developmental biology student. I am passionate about medicine and am working towards becoming a physician. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, trying new coffee shops, and spending time with friends and family. I hope to help foster a strong Honors community and provide support in any way I can. I am looking forward to a wonderful year!
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: mrami396@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in Fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology | On-Campus: N/A |
| Year in Honors: Second Year | Off-Campus: Food Distribution Volunteer for God's Pantry in the Inland Empire, Student Leader at Verve City Church |
| Research: Interested in Medical Research Pertaining to Patient Care and Treatment |
Interests: Reading, Exploring Beaches, Spending Time with Friends and Family |
| Career Goals: Physician | Hometown: Chino |
Omair Rana

View More ►
Hi! My name is Omair, I am a fourth-year cell, molecular, and developmental biology major, with a goal of attending medical school and becoming a physician in the future! Something that motivates me is hoping to leave UCR better than how I entered, which I hope to accomplish in part by continuing to serve as an Honors Ambassador! In my free time, I love playing tennis and watching basketball (Go Timberwolves!) and spending time with my friends and family!
Pronouns: he/him/his
Email: orana002@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology | On-Campus: UCR Health Clinical and Administrative Program Director, Phi Delta, Epsilon Vice President of Programming, Biomedical Sciences Undergraduate Assistant in Dr. Pegan's Lab in the School of Medicine, Supplemental Instruction Leader, Highlander Emergency Medical Services, Partners in Health Engage |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: Special Events Emergency Medica Technician |
| Research: Biomedical Sciences | Interests: Tennis, Basketball, Photography |
| Career Goals: Physician | Hometown: Irvine |
Varun Sudhir

View More ►
Hi! I'm Varun, a fourth-year cell, molecular, and developmental biology major. In the future, I aspire to be a dentist, although I am still figuring out what I want to specialize in. I am passionate about public health and am minoring in global and community health and hope to promote oral health education and improve access to oral care in underserved communities. In my free time, I like to play soccer and basketball, get food with my friends and yap. I'm looking forward to meeting everyone, so never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
Pronouns: he/him/his
Email: vsudh004@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Cell, Molecular, and Developmental Biology | On-Campus: Undergraduate Researcher at the Goel Lab |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: Student Dental Intern, Memory Care Volunteer |
| Research: Psychology & Neuroscience Research Focused on Sensory Discrimination and Behavior Circuits in the Brain. | Interests: Soccer, F1, Movies, Cookie Connoisseur |
| Career Goals: Dentist | Hometown: Dublin |
Anabelle Tran

View More ►
Hi! My name is Anabelle, and I'm a fourth-year psychology and education double-major with a minor in sociology. I hope to get my Ph.D. and become a clinical sports psychologist specializing in football. I hope to research how athletes regulate their aggression. Outside of school, I spend time reading, watching sports, baking, and knitting.
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Email: atran478@ucr.edu
If you would like to meet an Honors Ambassador please fill out the Group Peer Counseling Form.
Please note that all first year students are required to attend Group Peer Counseling with any Honors Ambassador in fall quarter (only available weeks 2-5). Group Peer Counseling will take place via Zoom and the link to access each ambassador's meeting room is included in the form. Group Peer Counseling is only open to First Year students.
| Academic | Extra-Curricular |
|---|---|
| Major: Psychology and Education with minor in Sociology | On-Campus: Honors Resident Advisor, Psi Chi Mentor |
| Year in Honors: Fourth Year | Off-Campus: N/A |
| Research: Clinical and Developmental Psychology | Interests: Knitting, Baking, Binging Shows/Movies, Shopping, Going Out with Friends |
| Career Goals: Clinical Sports Psychologist | Hometown: San Jose |