InterConnect Program

The InterConnect program seeks to support new international students with their cultural, social, and academic transition to Reed by matching them with a current Reedie.
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 2025

Xavier da Silva
Lead MentorEmail: xavierdasilva@reed.edu

Soraya Mwangi
Lead MentorEmail: sorayam@reed.edu
Hello, my name is Soraya! I'm an English Major and a film minor, and I'm super excited to get to know you! I enjoy watching video essays, discussing social issues, and cartoons! I'm from Kenya, Mali and France and including the US, I've lived in 7 countries.

Alina Kim
Email: alinakim@reed.edu
David Zhou
Email: dzhou@reed.edu
Hi, I’m David Zhou, a sophomore studying computer science and physics. I dream of using AI to uncover the theory of everything. I’m from Beijing and came to the U.S. in 7th grade, attending St. Mark’s School in MA. I love robotics, was captain of FRC Team 3566, and still build LEGO—this summer, a Technic Porsche GT4. I play PC games like Siege (was once champion ranked), and lately I’ve been into cars and go-karting. I have a cat at home (Lucy); I miss my dog George. I enjoy anime (my favorite is Oregairu), cooking, and hanging out with Martin (another mentor and amazing chef). I’m excited to make friends with you and help you while you enter Reed!

Ezra Scheuermann
Email: scheuermanneb@reed.edu

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!!! Reed is a unique place and I hope to help you guys have a smooth transition to college.

Martin Yuan
Email: martinyuan@reed.edu
Hello! My name is Martin Yuan and I am an upcoming sophomore likely majoring somewhere around physics and math. I am from Shenzhen, China but have been in the US since 8th grade. Over the years, I have come to learn the vibe of what it is like to live in the US as an international student, so if you have questions about the various food and entertainment options here, or how to find resources that you need, I'll be glad to point you in the right direction! I have also grown to be a huge foodie in the recent years, and often make food for my friends on the weekends. So I will self-proclaim as a qualified guide if you would like to supplement your dining experience at Reed beyond commons.
Additionally, I play cello on my own and in various ensembles on campus. Consequently, I am quite passionate about music, and classical music specifically. So if you are enthusiastic about music, I can also help you find your community here!
Looking forward to meet you all!

Sisy Pei
Email: sisypei@reed.edu
Hi everyone :) I’m Sisy Pei (she/her), a junior ICPS Political Science major and Economics minor. I grew up in Shanghai before moving to NY.
I LOVE playing tennis, listening to musicals, trying new restaurants, and wandering the city with my camera. If you ever need recommendations for food or hangout spots, I’ve got plenty!
Reed is unlike any other place you’ll experience in the US, and as an ISS mentor, I’m here to help make your transition as smooth as possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything & I can’t wait to meet y'all! :)

Valeria Gonzalez Padilla
Email: valeriag@reed.edu
Hello! My name's Valeria, and I'm and upcoming Biochemistry Sophmore! I was born in Costa Rica but grew up in Mexico, and I work in the nuclear reactor and I do research in a chemistry professor's lab. In my free time I like playing violin, video games, and going to concerts. I'm also really into the pokemon tcg if anybody would like to trade :P. I look forward to meeting you!

William Wang
Email: wangduanyang@reed.edu
Questions?
If you have any questions about the program, please contact Gwen Sandford, Program Director for International Student Services.