First-Generation Student Mentorship Program
Our mentors are here to assist first-generation students who are looking for advice or guidance on college life.
Whether you have a simple question about classes or extracurriculars, or you are interested in semester-long mentoring to explore shared experiences and learn how to navigate UB as a first-generation student, our mentors can help.
To connect with a mentor, fill out the form on this page or send an email to mgt-DandI@buffalo.edu.
Meet the Mentors
Ronald Aucapina
Academic Program: MBA (finance and data analytics concentrations)
From: Sag Harbor, N.Y.
Fun Facts: Ron previously interned at the School of Management’s Entrepreneurship Clinic and participated in the ASCM Case Competition, and is now participating in the Global Mentorship Program as part of LeaderCORE™. He enjoys hiking and listening to podcasts and music.
Hadijat Bhadmus
Academic Program: PharmD/MBA
From: Staten Island, N.Y.
Fun Facts: Hadijat is a member of the UB African Student Association and a licensed practical nurse working with geriatric and pediatric populations with special needs. She loves to eat, sketch and all things DIY.
Brittany Czodli
Academic Program: MBA (marketing concentration)
From: Orchard Park, N.Y.
Fun Facts: Brittany loves spending time with her dog, cooking and working out. She is an admissions processor and previously worked with Pegula Sports and Entertainment and Gelia in Buffalo.
Peter Farruggia
Academic Program: JD/MBA in health, law and policy and health care management
From: Retsof, N.Y.
Fun Facts: Peter loves the outdoors, going to the gym, cooking, travel and adventure. He is a proud gay advocate and a participant in the Nonprofit Board Fellows program through the School of Management’s Center for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness (CLOE).
Tien Nguyen
Academic Program: BS Accounting
From: Vietnam
Fun Facts: Tien immigrated to Buffalo six years ago and is a member of Beta Alpha Psi in the School of Management.
Rich Van
Academic Program: BS Civil Engineering/MBA
From: Shanghai
Fun Facts: Rich loves to play basketball, League of Legends and other esports. He has interned with Buffalo Games.
Emily Wilk
Academic Program: BS Business Administration (marketing and international business concentrations)
From: Hamburg, N.Y.
Fun Facts: Emily is a member of the UB Marketing Association and works on campus in the Student Conduct and Advocacy Office.