Meet your 2024 WOW Captains!
Claire Ruocco
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Real Estate and Digital Media and Design
Why do you “WOW”?: I love helping first-year students adjust to their new environment! Coming to college can be very exciting, but also very scary. I love having the opportunity to make their first experience on campus a positive one!
Sarah Khouja
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Elementary Education
Why do you “WOW”?: Being a first-year student at such a big university can be very overwhelming, and WOW is a great way to help get acclimated to campus in a smaller group before classes start! It’s such a great way to make friends right off the bat. Having the opportunity to help be a part of that adjustment and hopefully provide some comfort is why I WOW! 🙂
Cami Connolly
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Chemical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined WOW to help get first year students acclimated to UConn’s campus! I stayed in WOW because of the amazing people I have met and the positive impact I have had the opportunity to have on students!
Ava Buckmir
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Speech, Language, & Hearing Sciences and Psychology
Why do you “WOW”?: I became a WOW Captain because I want to help incoming first year students feel welcomed on our campus. I want to help students become acclimated with the transition to college and feel ready to start this new part of life!
Alyna Beardslee
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because I love to help first-year students make new friendships and give them useful tips/tricks to help them adjust to college life. I love to see the incoming Huskies start off their college experience in such an amazing way!
Sumedha Sabbani
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Psychological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because I am passionate about helping first-year students get acclimated onto campus and help jumpstart their first year as a UConn Husky! I love having the opportunity to interact with new people and help them start off their college experience in the most exciting and positive way possible!
Shravani Daptardar
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Analytics & Information Management
Why do you “WOW”?: After being a WOW leader last year, I wanted to come back and be a WOW captain to continue to support and welcome first-year students to make their transition to UConn fun and exciting! I love meeting new people and hope to make the program memorable for students!
Alice Durso
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Accounting
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined WOW because I wanted to assist and welcome the incoming first year students with their first week of college. I know getting acclimated to college life can be challenging and overwhelming, so being able to support first years through that transition is something I find impactful!
Courtney Balerna
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Nursing
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW was a crucial part in the friendships that I made my first weekend at UConn. Going to college for the first time is overwhelming for many students, so I’d like to do anything that I can to help incoming students feel more comfortable and confident in their decision to come to UConn.
Akshatha Nair
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Computer Science and Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW helped make my transition to college welcoming and less intimidating. I wanted to help incoming students adjust to the UConn atmosphere, and give them the same welcoming experience I had. It
Kennedy Evans
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Class: Junior
Major: Digital Media and Design
Why do you “WOW”?: I first participated in WOW 2022 as a WOW leader. I became a WOW leader and now a captain, because I felt that being an out-of-state student at UConn WOW was crucial to helping me get acclimated to the campus and finding my sense of belonging here. Therefore I wanted to take my experience and make sure that I give the first year students the same feeling I had when I came to UConn.
Michelle Huang
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: I love being able to meet first-year students and support them as they get acclimated to UConn. I’ve met so many amazing people through WOW after being a WOW leader, and am so excited to be back in the program so I can keep helping first-year students.
Emma Griffin
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Math/Stat & Sport Management
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because everybody deserves some extra support during their first weekend of college, a time filled with so many overwhelming changes. This is a transition that affects all students differently, so I love being able to provide others with a fun-filled weekend with tons of opportunities to make friends and adjust to campus.
Fariha Fardin
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
Minor: Bioinformatics
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW played a crucial role in helping me acclimate to UConn, allowing me to meet new people and familiarize myself with the campus. Now, as a WOW captain, I want to support incoming first-year students, ensuring they have a fun, positive experience and a smooth transition into being a UConn student!
Gray Kastner
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Animal Science (Pre-Vet)
Why do you “WOW”?: I have loved being a part of WOW, both through being a first year student, a leader, and now as a captain! Some of my closest friends are from WOW weekend and I wouldn’t have it any other way! First weekend is a great way to put yourself out there and get to know people you otherwise wouldn’t meet.
Kara Sciglimpaglia
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Pathobiology
Why do I “WOW”?: I WOW because I love to meet new people and help to support our incoming huskies into this new chapter of their lives. The transition into college can be tough so as a WOW captain, I hope to help welcome and provide our new students with a weekend full of fun with plenty of opportunities to make connections with others. I am excited to meet the new huskies!
Kendall Davis
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Environmental Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: The high school to college transition can be very hard and I think it’s important for everyone to get the chance to feel comfortable on campus. I think WOW is a great opportunity for the incoming students to get rid of their possible worries about life at UConn and I loved being a helping hand to them and sharing my experiences from my time here.
Jaden Astle
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Data Science & Cognitive Science
Why do you “WOW”?: I became involved in WOW because I feel that everyone needs the good reminder that college is all about having fun, finding yourself and your interests, and finding those similar to you. I want to help incoming students adjust to these goals and make their transition as easy as possible.
Asirva Alahari
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Management and Engineering for Manufacturing
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined the WOW Team because my first year experience was so fun because of WOW. I want to ensure that the incoming class of 2028 will be able to start their UConn careers in a fun, exciting, and successful way.
Osir Adu-Maafo
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Digital Media & Design
Why do you “WOW”?: I’m excited to be part of the WOW program because I want to help create a positive transition for the freshman. My WOW Leader did a great job of making us feel welcome and we were able to connect better as a group. I want to do the same and help them transition well into the role of a UConn Husky and have a great first start to their UConn career.
Hannah Koshy
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Finance
Why do you “WOW”?: I’m looking forward to being a part of the WOW team because it’s a great program to help first-year students branch out and meet others! During my first year, WOW helped me a lot in getting more familiar and comfortable with being on campus. I’m so excited to help other students have as great of an experience as I did 🙂
Mandy Wainwright
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Allied Health Science
Why do I “WOW”?: I wanted to be involved in WOW because I have a passion for meeting new people and I want to grant the incoming huskies the same opportunity in which I was so lucky to have. I hope to make a positive impact on everyone which I meet and make this large transition a little easier on all the new huskies.
Carolyn Jewett
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Minor: Mathematics
Why do you “WOW”?: College is a big transition and can be quite intimidating. As an out of state student, I understand how hard it can be coming into college, and hope to use my experiences to help first year students find their place and have the best experience possible. I love the WOW program and the opportunities it has for everyone, and hope to make a positive impact and give students the great WOW experience I’ve had.
Abby Mousa
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Medha Illindala
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Grace Sacco
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Ray Consiglio
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Sam Garskof
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Meet your 2024 WOW Leaders!
Phoebe Nantz
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Management
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be a part of WOW because I really want to help every one of the first year students feel at home here, and to be able to give them a shoulder to lean on. I want to show them why I love UConn so much and how they’ll get to love it just as much.
Tonia Měi
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Finance & Statistics
Why do you “WOW”?: First impressions are everything!! I didn't have a WOW leader, but I do know how hard it is for some people to transition from living at home to fully on campus since I campus changed from Stamford in Spring —> Fall 2022.
Amelia Sullivan
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Anthropology
Minors: Global Health & Art History
Why do you “WOW”?: I have absolutely loved my time at UConn and want to help new students feel welcomed to our community. As a transfer student at UConn, I was without the support of a program such as WOW and had to make the transition alone. Therefore, I want to help new students feel more acclimated to campus.
Savannah White
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Biological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: I am excited to help new students get more acclimated to campus and give them tips that I wish I knew when I first got here! I know it can be nerve wracking to speak to people and make new friends when in a new environment but I want to make it as easy as possible for incoming students!
Kati Kwiatek
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Physiology & Neurobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: I’ve loved my time at UConn so far and I had a great WOW leader when I first moved in as a first year! I want to give new students the experience I was able to have.
Emily Chan
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Accounting
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because I want to show the first-years all the amazing things that UConn has to offer. I also want to serve as a mentor and a friend as these students begin their transition into college life.
Haley Wilson
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Allied Health
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join the WOW program after having an amazing experience during my WOW weekend. It's a fantastic way to get to know the campus and make friends. I'm really looking forward to helping new students adjust to campus life and offering them some friendly advice!
Caroline Szajda
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
Minors: WGSS & Geography
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be part of WOW so I can help first year students feel more welcome and comfortable at UConn. I want to spread positivity and school spirit, as well as help them make some new friends!
Rebecca Snyder
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Accounting
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be a part of WOW because coming into college, especially as an out-of-state student, can be a scary experience, and I want to be able to help and guide the incoming first-years as much as I can!
Emma Critchley
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Women’s, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
Why do you “WOW”?: I had a great experience when I was in the WOW program and I want to pass it on to the next group of new students!
Brianna Johnson
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Psychology
Why do you “WOW”?: I have loved my experience at UConn, meeting my friends and joining some amazing clubs and organizations! I could not be more excited to help introduce new students to all UConn has to offer!!
Ishika Soni
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: MCB & Pathobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: I’ve been a part of WOW since my sophomore year and have loved it since. Coming into college, especially from out of state, is scary, but with the WOW program, the activities, meeting new people, it’s all so much fun. I love introducing all of that to the first years.
Neev Maru
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Psychology
Why do you “WOW”?: My time at UConn has been incredible, filled with forming lasting friendships and participating in amazing clubs and organizations. I'm eager to guide new students and share all the wonderful opportunities UConn provides!
Alexa Correa-Rosario
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Psychology & HDFS
Why do you “WOW”?: I was part of WOW for the first time and I just feel like it really guided me, especially being a first-year student. Not only that it has guided me but it is always a way for you to make friendships. And so I would like to pass on that experience to the incoming first-year students and guide them to find opportunities and many more things that UConn has.
Emma Van Tasel
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Pre-Teaching (Elem Ed)
Why do you “WOW”?: I really enjoyed my experience with WOW as a first-year student. It helped me acclimate to campus life, and I can’t wait to provide that same experience to incoming first-year students. UConn is amazing and has so much to offer, and I’m excited to share that with those just beginning their journeys here.
Patrick McKenzie
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Chemical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: I want to help incoming first year students adjust to college and provide them with someone they can reach out to at any point. I also really enjoy showing people around UConn and can’t wait to introduce first years to our campus!
Melissa Gallagher
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: MEM
Why do you “WOW”?: I made friends that have lasted all 4 years of college over WOW weekend, and I want to help people make similar connections and friendships that will last a lifetime!
Mackenzie Brogan
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: SLHS & ASL
Why do you “WOW”?: I had an amazing WOW leader my freshman year, and I want to be able to give that same experience to someone else! As an out of state student, I was extremely nervous coming to UConn, but WOW weekend helped me feel at home. I can’t wait to help other students feel the same!
Suheera Haq
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Individualized: Social Determinants of Reproductive Healthcare & Molecular and Cell Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I had a great experience being a WOW leader at the beginning of my sophomore year. Through WOW, I have made friendships and new connections that I cherish greatly. I look forward to meeting new peers and helping others find their footing on our campus!
Kekeli Ames
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Psychological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: I want to help welcome incoming first year students to campus life. I enjoyed my first year and made many valuable friendships through WOW.I am excited to be apart of your journey and new found memories.
Sabrina Ortega
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Finance
Why do you “WOW”?: It is such a great and fun opportunity to make friends and go on small adventures around campus! And I am excited to guide you on that adventure.
Bonnibel Lilith Rampertab
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Majors: Psychological Sciences & History
Why do you “WOW”?: As a first-gen first-year student, I was terrified when thinking about and going to college. My WOW leader comforted me with her presence and facilitated my understanding of not only my floormates, but the college I go to as well. If I could provide the same comfort and positivity to those I will be welcoming to campus, I would be content.
Alexandra Gonzalez
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Undecided
Why do you “WOW”? Entering college can be overwhelming. WOW was an amazing way for me to get adjusted to college life, and navigate UConn. I have met life long friends through the program, and I hope to be able to build a positive, welcoming environment for incoming first-years!
Shannon Hegarty
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Pathobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: I want to make the transition to UConn as comfortable as possible for first-year students as well as facilitate connections! I got the chance to meet so many wonderful people during WOW and the experience as a whole put my worries at ease! I would emphasize to my group that WOW is a unique opportunity to build friendships without the commitments of the semester.
Kylee Vazquez
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Accounting
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to get involved in WOW because of the positive experience I had as a first-year. College is certainly a big change for everyone, and I wanted to show students that everyone has a place here at UConn. My three close friends were all made because of WOW and the fun bonding events held.
Emma Marchiony
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Psychology & HDFS
Why do you “WOW”?: I really enjoyed my WOW experience last year. It helped acclimate me to UConn, find my best friends, and familiarize myself with the campus. I can’t wait to share that feeling with incoming first years and give them similar experiences!
Garrett Sparks
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Computer Science & Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: When I was moving into UConn I was super excited but I was also nervous. The WOW program grouped me with several other first years and it was a great way to meet people. I stayed close with many of the people in my WOW group all of my first year. The program helped acclimate me to living in a dorm and helped me with learning the campus before classes began. I am super excited to have the opportunity to give new students an experience like mine!
Safiyah Bashir
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Civil & Environmental Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: As an out-of-state student, I was nervous coming to UConn. Thanks to WOW, I settled into campus life smoothly and created long-lasting friendships! I'm excited to guide incoming first-years to have the best experience possible!!
Teagan Price
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Business Management
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW is such a crucial event in order to get students out of their comfort zone and ready for their college experiences. I wanted to become further involved WOW because of how it enables students to create friendships and gain excitement about starting a new journey. I WOW to allow incoming Huskies to enjoy their very first weekend at UConn!
Avery Hawthorne
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Physiology & Neurobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be a part in the transition into the UConn community for first year students. Entering into a new environment can be scary, but UConn is so great and has so much to offer, I really wanted to make sure that incoming students are able to get the best of this opportunity.
Sam Sullivan
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Molecular and Cell Biology & Psychological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: Starting college is a huge adjustment and the WOW program helped make me feel comfortable and welcome my first weekend here. I want to help incoming first year students have a fun and smooth transition to campus like I did.
Gabby Pines
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Animal Science (Pre-Vet Track)
Why do you “WOW”?: When I came to the Storrs Campus as a campus change student, I was overwhelmed and not sure what to expect. By helping out with WOW, I will be able to help new students become familiar with the campus and help set them up for success. I am so excited to meet the incoming new students and help start their paths at UConn.
Julia Pfeifer
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined the WOW program because I wanted to help the first years adjust to college living. As an out of state student, I know being on a college campus can be overwhelming in the beginning. I am here to help the student acclimate and to be a friendly face around campus!
Wyeth Haddock
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Materials Science & Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: Coming from a small cow town in northern Vermont, I was super worried about finding my place at UConn. Through the WOW program, I was immediately immersed in an engaging and laid-back community, meeting some of the people who remain my closest friends to this day. The experience, as well as my lovely WOW leader, helped me feel at home and comfortable on campus. I’ve had an amazing past two years here, and look forward to sharing my experiences and building relationships through the WOW program.
Sanjana Gade
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology and Individualized Major: Immigrant Healthcare Policy & Law
Why do you “WOW”?: Given how welcoming and inspiring my WOW leader was during my first year, I seek to foster the same positive environment and excitement among first-year students, too! Creating some of my first friends during this week helped ease my transition into college, allowing me to both find my place within the community and explore my passions sooner. Therefore, I hope to serve as a mentor and equip first years towards success during WOW and beyond, sharing all the opportunities, networks, and experiences there are to offer here at UConn!
Lian Dunn
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Marketing
Why do you “WOW”?: I want to give the incoming class the same experience I received when I first came here. I was super moved by my WOW leader last year and I want to pay it forward by supporting others and being a helping hand. I really hope to be a friendly face and someone who can make the first year’s transition easier this year!
Colin Slavin
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: The WOW program allowed me to meet some of my best friends and gave me the best possible start to freshman year, so I hope to give new first years the same positive experience that I had.
Eric Pinos
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Computer Science & Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: Most First-Year students don’t know what to expect when coming into a University. The WOW program allows students to get a little taste of what UConn has to offer. Plus, it’s a great way to create friendships!
Gabriella Silva
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Finance
Why do you “WOW”?: I’d love to be part of the first year students' first impression of UConn and show them what UConn is all about before classes start up. First impressions make all the difference on the start of their new journey.
Cody Stone
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW allowed me to meet new people and discover new opportunities that I would never have had the chance to have without it. I want to “WOW” so I can give new huskies the same great experience that I had.
Isabelle Schembri
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW helped me feel at home at UConn. It connected me with life long friends my very first week of college.
Deborah Binkita
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Biological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW solidified UConn as my new second home and allowed me to have those first experiences interacting with my floormates!
Sarah Shapiro
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Human Rights
Why do you “WOW”?: During my freshman year WOW helped me feel comfortable and safe. I now want to make sure new students get that same comfort, knowing how scary college can be at first.
Abigail Luis
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Undecided
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW helped make the adjustment of moving to college so much easier and made me feel so much more comfortable here. So I now want to do the same for the new huskies and make them feel welcome on campus and show them everything UConn has to offer!
Jieun Park
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Physiology & Neurobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: The WOW orientation left a lasting impression on me during my first experience at UConn. Witnessing the welcoming atmosphere and informative sessions inspired me to create similarly positive experiences for incoming students. I am eager to contribute to fostering a sense of belonging and excitement for newcomers to UConn.
Julia Reid
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Elementary Education & Special Education
Why do you “WOW”?: I love to show my Husky pride as well as make others feel proud to be a UConn student! I felt firsthand how crazy of an adjustment that college was and I want to provide others with a helping hand, positive attitude, and familiar face to know in such a crazy time of life! I love working with other people and making sure they are comfortable and having fun!
Anna Kretsch
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Biological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: The WOW program made such a positive impact for me in my first few days at UConn and I would like to bring that same experience to incoming first year students. I would also love to introduce all that UConn has to offer!
Khushi Girish
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Computer Science
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW helped me meet so many people, and allowed me to feel less intimidated when I entered my freshman year of college. I want to help people feel less intimidated and feel excited to start their academic careers at UConn!!
Jessica Morin
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Pharmacy
Why do you “WOW”?: I want to be able to welcome new Huskies at the beginning of their UConn journey and give them a feeling of excitement for the next chapter in their lives!
Gavin Mone
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Accounting
Why do you “WOW”?: I had a great time participating in WOW last fall as a first-year on campus. It was a great way for me to get familiar with campus and all that it has to offer. I look forward to guiding and mentoring the new first year students in the fall and have a welcoming spirit for all.
Candy Najera
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined WOW to be more involved at UConn and I wish to help first years feel more comfortable on campus like how my WOW leaders helped me.
Audrey Walters
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Actuarial Science
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be involved in WOW because WOW Weekend helped me adjust to life in college at my own pace. I want to help incoming students feel the sense of community I felt during my first week at UConn.
Jenaliz Cordero
Pronouns: She/They
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Geoscience
Why do you “WOW”?: I had a wonderful experience with my WOW weekend leaders so I wanted to pay the kindness forward by being a helpful WOW Leader to others.
Layal Hammad
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Management & Engineering for Manufacturing
Why do you “WOW”?: As an out of state student, I remember how nervous I was about making friends my first year. WOW made it really easy for me to meet new people and meet some of my closest friends. I want to be able to make incoming first year’s experiences just as fun and memorable as mine was during my first week of college!
Dianna Alarcon
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Psychological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: I joined WOW to become a supportive resource, aiding first year students as they navigate the often daunting transition to college. My hope is to make these students feel at home at UConn, gravitating to the Husky Pride, and being their guidance and support throughout their first weekend on campus!
Sam Messervy
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Civil Engineer
Why do you “WOW”?: To show new students what UConn is all about! I am very passionate about the friends/community that I have become apart of since arriving at UConn.
Erin Schechter
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Elementary Education
Why do you “WOW”?: When starting at UConn, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I found that the WOW activities provided opportunities to learn more about campus, make friends, and get immersed in the college experience. I’m excited to meet the next class of students and guide them through their first weekend on campus!
Molly Daigle
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Natural Resources
Why do you “WOW”?: Starting college can be an overwhelming experience, and through participating in WOW activities, I was able to get to know our campus community, enjoy fun events, as well as meet friends that even now I'm still close with. Joining WOW is an exciting opportunity that allows me to showcase all of what UConn has to offer as well as the many fun events going on to welcome incoming first year students to campus.
Bethany Loto
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Economics & Healthcare Management (Dual Degree)
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join WOW to share my love of the UConn campus and community with the newest class of huskies!
Shai Verma
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Computer Science
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join WOW because my own experience was amazing and I want to make it the same for the next generation of huskies. I am extremely excited to be the first face they meet after move-in.
Ruvini Babaria
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Environmental Science
Why do you “WOW”?: The beginning of college can be an overwhelming experience, but I found WOW to be one of the best parts of my first semester at UCONN. It provides so many opportunities to get to know the campus, people, and any events. I hope to give back to other first years and make sure they have an amazing time as huskies!
James Hunter
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Political Science
Why do you “WOW”?: UConn is a big campus, and there’s too much to absorb by yourself. My WOW leaders helped show me around and gave me invaluable advice, and I want to do the same for new first years!
Krupal Patel
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW was a way I slowly adapted to the abrupt transition that happened from high school to college. Speaking from experience, I was lost the first weekend of college. My WOW leader helped facilitate connections with my floormates and made me feel more comfortable. I hope to do the same as a WOW leader!
Sanae Louis
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Human Development & Family Studies
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because I think it’s important to help others become comfortable with college life and give the incoming first years a chance to create a community, making this new experience more fun and enjoyable. WOW introduced me to some of my closest friends here and I hope that I am able to do the same for other first years as well.
Serena Sweeney
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Nursing
Why do you “WOW”?: First arriving at college was challenging, especially with this big campus it was easy to feel lost. But with the guidance of my WOW leaders and the activities the transition felt smoother and I was able to have fun rather than stress my first few days. I WOW so I can pass on what was given to me to help with this transition and help them have a great first year.
Katie Hanrahan
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Nursing
Why do you “WOW”?: I became a WOW leader because I really enjoyed WOW during my first year. It helped me acclimate to UConn, meet so many people, and made a hard transition more fun. I want to help first year students by giving them the same experience that I had, and making sure their first experiences at UConn are fun!
Lynn Blot
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Marketing/Communication
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because I believe it's important to help others acclimate to college life and give incoming first-year students the opportunity to build a community, making their new experience more enjoyable and fun. WOW allowed me to feel more comfortable on campus and I made some long lasting connections with others in my class.
Mia Leone
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Civil Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: Coming from a small school and going to a big university can be overwhelming. It was definitely one for me especially since I was an out of state student. During my WOW weekend freshman year, I met some of my best friends and was helped to get acclimated to campus. I want first year students to feel a sense of safety and comfortability for their first experiences at UConn!
Indigo Irwin
Pronouns: She/They
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Anthropology & Political Science
Why do you “WOW”?: Participating in WOW as a first year student helped me to become more familiar with campus and make friends with other students on my floor. As a WOW leader I hope to make other students experience that same sense of comfort and provide a safe space for students to ask questions.
Cayla Dunord
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Psychology
Why do you “WOW”?: I became a part of wow because of how beneficial it was to me. Any transition is tough, so it is always nice to have guidance.. and wow gave just that! Being a part of wow my first year helped me establish connections with other people, and helped gain comfortability with the campus before classes started. Now that I am able to be on the other side of wow, I look forward to helping others who are transiting find their discover the campus.
Jackson Boulter
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Materials Science & Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: My WOW leader greatly influenced my college experience by encouraging me to join his club. I became a daily member of the club and have made many of my closest friends. As a WOW leader, I want to help others like my leader did by encouraging others to find clubs/activities that are perfect for them.
Shez Jakhro
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Physiology & Neurobiology (PNB)
Why do you “WOW”?: I believe that university life is a huge transition; the kind of environment a person is placed in makes all the difference. Having been helped with guidance and cheered by my age group when I first set foot on campus, I now extend to the incoming class a very warm welcome into the community of learners.
Gabrielle Zettler
Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs
Graduation Year: Fall 2024
Major: Psychology
Why do you “WOW”?: I became a WOW Leader because I love my school and my campus and I wanted to share that with incoming students. I was terrified of college before I came to UConn and the WOW program helped me feel less alone and more like I belonged. If I can pass that experience on to as many students as I can, I’ll be happy.
Melissa Zheng
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Mathematics
Why do you “WOW”?: I think WOW activities and WOW leaders are very special. They are the first face for all first year students to see, and the first experience of college they could have. It is a transforming stage. Before you were teenagers, now you learn to become grownups. It feels unique to participate in this precious moment of others, and I wish to help them succeed.
Ashley Bejar
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Psychology & HDFS
Why do you “WOW”?: I personally didn’t have the best WOW experience, so I want to be able to give the incoming first-years a better experience than I did! WOW weekend is the time to meet new people, explore campus, and do fun activities, so it’s vital that the new students of our Husky nation feel included. I hope that our new Huskies see UConn as their home away from home, and have the greatest weekend ever!
Jamie Ross
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Physiology & Neurobiology
Why do you “WOW”?: I WOW because entering college on the right footing is essential for future success both socially and academically. College is a huge adjustment for everyone. I hope to provide first year students a fun, safe, and helpful welcome to campus.
Louise Leonard
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Molecular & Cell Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to be a wow leader because I wanted to help give first year students an amazing weekend, like the one I had my first year. I can’t wait to help guide them through the beginning of college.
Kenneth Nguyen
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Biological Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: WOW was so helpful in my transition to college, which is thanks to all of the work that the WOW Leaders do to welcome the incoming freshmen. I “WOW” because I want to give back to this amazing tradition and not only welcome in the next class of huskies, but also help establish community and a sense of belonging!
Noor Issa
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Computer Science
Why do you “WOW”?: Inspired by the warm welcome and encouragement I received from my WOW leader during my first year, I am eager to give back the same positive experience to first-year students. Meeting new faces and making friends in a new environment can be nerve-wracking, so I want to help make the transition as smooth as possible!
Sarah Cook
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Political Science
Why do you “WOW''?: I wanted to join the WOW program after having such an amazing experience my first year. I look forward to helping new UConn students feel as welcome as I did during this exciting time!
Shaun Paschetto
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Mathematics/Actuarial Science
Why do you “WOW”?: I had an enjoyable WOW experience and made some of my best friends through the program, so I want to give back to WOW and assist the incoming first-year students during their transition to college!
Amayah Algarin
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Allied Health Sciences w/ a concentration in Health Sciences
Minors: Human Development & Family Sciences; Molecular & Cell Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: Through the WOW program, I was able to meet some of my best friends and make very fun memories. I WOW so that I can help incoming students navigate their transition into a new environment, and help create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
Abhishree Kaushik
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join WOW because it gives me the amazing opportunity to be able to make the first experience on campus the best it can be for the incoming students. I hope to be able to help them become accustomed to campus life and offer any advice and insight I have gained in my time here.
Jaylanie Rivera
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Allied Health Sciences
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join WOW because of how enjoyable my experience was my first year. WOW is such a great weekend to get adjusted to campus and meet many people before the fall semester begins. Overall, I feel being apart of the first years first welcome to campus is a great opportunity and also so fun!!
Nikhil Thimma
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Physiology/Neurobiology & Sociology
Why do you “WOW”?: I decided to join the WOW program because I could be given the firsthand opportunity to guide first year students through the amazing school of UConn, and so they could feel as though they have someone for them in what can be a lonely and confusing time. I am ecstatic about playing a role in helping first year students adjust and have fun at the same time!
Emilah Mumthanu
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: Analytics Information Management double minoring in HDFS and Digital Marketing & Analytics
Why do you “WOW”?: As someone who began their academic journey at UConn Waterbury and later transferred to UConn Storrs, I understand the challenges that come with such a transition. When I arrived at Storrs in my junior year, I felt like a freshman all over again. The shift from a close-knit regional campus to a bustling college town can indeed be overwhelming. I joined the WOW program because I want to help first-year students navigate this transition and find your place within our community. My goal is to show our first-year students that, despite the initial challenges, you can discover a supportive and welcoming environment here at UConn. Let's embark on this journey together and make your first year an enriching and enjoyable experience.
Luna Pham
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2027
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Why do you “WOW”?: I had an amazing “WOW Weekend” experience! My leaders pushed me to venture out my comfort zone and participate in all the events where I met some of my closest friends. College is such a major transition since there is more emphasis on independence, however, I found that even a small push can make a huge difference!
Alec Beane
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Journalism
Why do you “WOW”?: I “WOW” to show the new students what our campus is all about! I had an incredible experience during my WOW and hope to give the new incoming students that same experience!
Raissa Kom
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Molecular and Cellular Biology
Why do you “WOW”?: I wanted to join the WOW program because I made some of my closest friends during that weekend. I want to help new Uconn students get acclimated to campus, interact with their peers, and make new friends.