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Our Peer Mentors

Meet the Klein Rising Peer Mentors

Our peer mentors are essential to the mission of Klein Rising.

These more experienced students help our newest students acclimate to the culture of Klein College so they can make the most of their first year at Temple. Peer mentors provide guidance and support throughout the Klein Rising experience including tips on studying, navigating campus life, exploring Philadelphia and more.

Our current Klein Rising peer mentors and staff are listed here along with their biographies in case you want to contact them or learn more about them.

Gloria Chuma

Gloria Chuma

Journalism Major

My name is Gloria Chuma and I’m a journalism major with the class of 2027. I’m currently a member of Temple’s Pre-Law Society. What I love most about being a Klein Owl is that we have access to many study-away programs through Klein GO—making the idea of leaving the nest and exploring the outside world a reality! Here at Klein, there’s a place for everyone and we cannot wait to have you!

Morgan Leese

Morgan Leese

Audio and Live Entertainment Major

Hi! I’m Morgan Leese, and I’m a Senior Audio and Live Entertainment major. I’m the Co-Founder and President of The Singers and Songwriters Club, and a member of the Music Business Club. What I enjoy the most about being a Klein Owl is how versatile and niche the majors can get. Some words of encouragement from me to you: if you can’t find what you’re looking for, you have the opportunity to create it here.

Vicky Heliodoro

Vicky Heliodoro

Communication and Social Influence Major

Hello! My name is Vicky Heliodoro and I am a Communication and Social Influence major minoring in Criminal Justice. I am a peer mentor as well as a peer advisor and I love being a resource for other students to turn to and aiding in anyway that I can. I have also worked as a research assistant in the Criminal Justice department focusing on areas such as juvenile and LGBTQ+ issues in the system and am very passionate about these topics. Being a Klein owl to me means community as there are always resources and people available who are ready and excited to help! Transitioning into college can be an intimidating process but Klein is the perfect place to do so! Don't be afraid to reach out to me or anyone else if you need anything throughout the amazing journey you are about to embark on!

Joshua Groves

Joshua Groves

Media Studies and Production Major

Hello, my name is Joshua and I am a rising second year MSP student. Some school activities I am apart of are Temple Pilots, Bell Tower Music, and I am on the MSP student advisory board. The thing I enjoy most about being a Klein Owl is constantly discovering new projects, clubs and people where I can gain experience and be apart of something bigger than myself. For all of the first years out there, do not feel bad for not knowing, I still do not know everything I probably should. In order to get everything you can get out of college, join an organization pertaining to your desired field as soon as possible, do not wait.

Sylvianna Colon

Sylvianna Colon

Public Relations Major

Hey, I'm Sylvie! I am a sophomore at Klein, and I am a public relations major and criminal justice minor. I am involved in PRSSA, Pre-Law Society, Honors Activity Board, and the Dare2Dance Dance Company. I also work as the Graphic Design and Marketing Intern for the University Career Center, and I work as an Owl Ambassador and Owl Team Leader. I am so grateful for all the networking opportunities at Klein and resources for professional development, as well as how welcoming the other Klein students are. Enjoy your first year at Temple because these next few years fly by! I encourage you to get out of your room and join different activities to meet new people and have new experiences. Go Owls!

Gabriel Linington

Gabriel Linington

Journalism Major

My name is Gabriel Linington and I am a sophomore Journalism major. I currently work with OwlSportsUpdate on air, editing, and doing camera work. I also am regularly in 2 volleyball, a basketball, and a soccer intramural team each year. I also used to work for WHIP and the Temple News. I love being a Klein Owl because I feel Klein has a lots of opportunity to make deep connections with peers and faculty. All I would say is get involved! There is so much opportunity to build your own futures here at Klein.

Charity Foster

Charity Foster

Communication Studies Major

Hi! I'm Charity, a senior Communication Studies major with a minor in Public Relations. I serve as President of Careers in Color, Lead Photo Editor for the Yearbook, and an Account Associate with PRowl. As a transfer student, I understand the importance of making the most of your time here at Temple. You're in good hands, as there is nothing more fulfilling than being a Klein Owl. There are so many people who are willing to help, myself included, if you only ask!

Remington Lockwood Vaughan

Remington Lockwood Vaughan

Communication Studies Major

Hi! My name is Remington Lockwood Vaughan and I am a sophomore Communication Studies student at Temple! I am involved with lots of activities in Klein and Temple including Queer Temple, TU Equestrian team, and Dr. Gratson's Pride course! I even have my own TUTV show called Shedding Light, where we center those with disabilities at Temple and in Philadelphia and what it means to be an advocate for those with disabilities. I love being a Klein Owl because you can do anything as soon as you start your first year at Klein. There is so much to do at Klein, Temple, and in Philadelphia, so do not be afraid to go take advantage. Opportunity is truly everywhere!

Keida Fatmiri

Keida Fatmiri

Communication Studies Major

My name is Keida Fatmiri! I am a junior communication major. My favorite thing about being a Klein Owl is the community our college has and the friendly faces that are always willing to help. I want all first year students to know that everything will fall into place and as long as they’re true to themselves they will thrive in whatever they choose to pursue.

Cara Kishter

Cara Kishter

Communication Studies Major

Cara Kishter, Senior (May 2025), Communication Studies major and Journalism minor. After a semester abroad in Rome, I can't wait to reconnect with my roles as a freelance photographer for The Temple News, Klein photo lab monitor, and e-board member of Thrift and Flop! Entering college can be nerve-wracking and intimidating; luckily, being a Klein Owl gives you community the minute you get to campus. With student orgs for every interest and professors and classmates who want you to succeed, you'll find your place in Klein before you know it.

Emilie Chan

Emilie Chan

Communication Studies and Advertising Major

Hello! My name is Emilie Chan, a junior double major in Comm Studies and Advertising. Within Klein, I participate in the Comm Club and the Students Activist Against Sexual Assault club. Other than Klein, I have an executive board position at Temple Real Estate Organization, with the role of Social Media Director. I also have an internship through Temple, where I manage social media platforms and internal marketing for Temple University's Pre-College program. I love all things design and media! Specifically to Klein, I love how it really feels like a close community and family, everyone is here to support you! I am very excited for you to get to know your way around Klein, and find your place within it!

Carly Perdue

Carly Perdue

Communication Studies Major

My name is Carly Perdue, and I am a junior majoring in Communication Studies with a minor in Content Creation. During my first year at Temple University, I became involved in the Communications department and served as an ambassador for our department. Additionally, I joined a sorority and held the position of Public Relations chair for Phi Sigma Sigma. Currently, I am honored to serve as Temple University's Panhellenic Council President. For the past year, I have also been a Peer Mentor, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. My time in Klein College has been fulfilling; I've built numerous friendships and valuable connections that I know will endure for years to come.

Katherine Black

Katherine Black

Communication Studies Major

My name is Katherine Black and I am a sophomore Communication Studies major. My favorite part about being a Klein Owl is all of the unique opportunities that Klein offers, and getting to meet people with similar interests! My biggest piece of advice for first year students is to always reach out for support!

Noam Wasik

Noam Wasik

Communication and Social Influence Major

My name is Noam Wasik and I am a Junior majoring in Communication and Social Influence. I'm an active member of HerCampus, the Temple community garden, and I am a group fitness instructor at the Temple Rec Center. Klein College is unlike any other. No matter what major you are the faculty and peers are extremely supportive and motivational. Klein feels like one big family. Everyone is willing to help one another. It may take some time, but you will find a place for yourself at Klein. There are clubs and activities for every interest. Don't be scared to reach out and create connections; Klein prides itself on the strong connections made between peers and professors.

Carley Kurtz

Carley Kurtz

Public Relations Major

Hi everyone! My name is Carley, and I am a Senior Public Relations major and Screen Studies minor at Temple. I was raised outside of New Haven, Connecticut, and I had never been to Philadelphia before starting my first day at Temple! Despite that last fact, over the past few years I've really built a home here. I have been on the eboard of Temple's Student-Run PR firm entitled PRowl, the Public Relations Student society (PRSSA), one of Temple's comedy sketch clubs (Temple Smash), and I have worked in Klein's alumni office since my Freshman year. Outside regular clubs, I've done PR research in the fields of communication, film, and psychology, and I've PA'd on a couple of student films and projects over the past few years. I love all things film, music, and entertainment, and I am so excited to make new connections this year as a peer mentor 😊

Thalia Lash

Thalia Lash

Media Studies and Production Major

Hi! Im Thalia “Lee” Lash, I am a Sophomore MSP: Business Major double minoring in Public Relations and Sociology. On campus, I am a member of the Temple Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), floor manager of TUTV’s Queer Temple, and now a Peer Mentor for Klein College! My favorite thing about being a Klein Owl would be the opportunities to network with both peers and industry professionals. My word of advice for first year students would be to use every resource offered to you!

Jessy Xu

Jessy Xu

Media Studies and Production and Marketing Major

My name is Jessy, I am double majoring in Media Studies & Production and Marketing, estimated to graduate in 2027. I am currently involved with Temple Update, a student led award winning TV program that covers news and events from the Temple community, and work in different roles such as camera operator and graphic server. I am also a member of the Temple chapter of the American Marketing Association, in which I attend weekly meetings for business skills development. I have always loved working with content creation and video production, and so I really appreciate the opportunities that Temple provides, allowing my diverse interests to be fulfilled. As someone who just finished her first year, I would say that do not be afraid to say "yes", first year is all about exploring, trying out new things, joining clubs. It is the fastest and most enjoyable way to allow yourself to get involved in the community.

Anfisa Blyumina

Anfisa Blyumina

Communication and Social Influence Major

Hey everyone, I'm Anfisa Blyumina, a junior studying Communication and Social Influence with a minor in Sociology. I'm pretty involved around campus—I'm on the E-Board for Comm Club, part of the Central Asian Students Association, and gearing up to join the Communication Board for Temple Student Government next year! What I love most about being a Klein Owl is the incredible support from faculty, staff, and fellow students. My advice to incoming freshmen is don't be shy to ask for help! Klein College has tons of awesome resources including peer mentors. Make the most of your time here—swing by office hours, connect with peers, grab coffee with your favorite professor, join clubs, and HAVE FUN!

Emily Hildenbrand

Emily Hildenbrand

Journalism Major

My name is Emily Hildenbrand and I am a sophomore journalism major here at Klein! I'm involved with both Queer Temple and Shedding Light as the director of Social Media, as well as the photographer for Artists Among Us! Outside of TUTV I host a show on WHIP called "Geek Rock Radio" and sing in the a cappella group Pitch, Please. Klein has so many opportunities and I'm so excited to share them all with my fellow peer mentors and new students next year!

Julia Anderson

Julia Anderson

Public Relations Major

My name is Julia Anderson and I am a junior public relations major with a sports management minor. This is my second year as a Klein Rising Peer Mentor and I could not be more excited to continue! I also work for The Temple News and help run all of their social media accounts. Furthermore, I am on the E-Board for Temple PRSSA. I love being a Klein Owl because of the community created within itself. The professors and students are so amazing and supportive. If you are a new Klein Owl, no worries, you will right in! Just be yourself and it will all come naturally.

Colt Gunn

Colt Gunn

Journalism Major

My name is Colt Gunn, I am expected to graduate in 2027, and my major is journalism. I have participated in Temple chess club and have plans to join the staff of the Temple news next fall. My favorite thing about being a Klein Owl is the community. Countless times I have been in tough situations and got support from the faculty. Not only checking in with me but providing me with resources so that I could get the help I need. For the upcoming first-year class, all I can say is that you are in great hands. You will never feel left out, and your voice will always be heard here at Klein.

Evelina Ogrodniczuk

Evelina Ogrodniczuk

Public Relations Major

My name is Evelina Ogrodniczuk and I am a rising junior public relations major. Along with being a peer mentor, I am a member of PRSSA, Camp Kesem, and a sister of Temple's Phi Sigma Sigma chapter. I love being a Klein Owl because of the welcoming environment Klein has and the amazing connections I have made with other Klein Owls. I am excited to start my second year of Peer Mentoring and am here to help make your first year experience as amazing as possible.

Layla Wheeler

Layla Wheeler

Advertising Major

I'm Layla and I am a Junior advertising major. I am a part of Templar yearbook as the social media coordinator and also the VP of community relations for my sorority. I also work as a Klein ambassador for the recruitment team. I love all of the opportunities Klein has given and gives others.

Hayden Bandel

Hayden Bandel

Media Studies and Production Major

My name is Hayden Bandel and I am entering my last semester as a Media Studies and Production major with a certificate in sports media. At Temple, I am involved with many of the Klein-run student organizations, such as OwlSportsUpdate and WHIP Radio. At OwlSportsUpdate I am the anchor for the football show, Inside the Nest. At WHIP Radio I am the sports director and do play-by-play for the Temple football and men's and women's basketball team. One thing I would encourage my first-year students to know is to get involved right away. Although it can seem overwhelming at first, it can put you on a much better career path early on at your time at Klein.

Madri Mazo

Madri Mazo

Advertising Major

Hi Owls! I am Madri Mazo, a senior advertising major with a concentration in media planning and art direction and a minor in event planning. At Temple, I'm involved in various activities and organizations, fueling my passion for creativity and community engagement. One of the roles at Klein I cherish the most is being a Klein Rising Peer Mentor. Throughout my four years at Temple, I've held leadership positions within the Fashion & Business Professional Organization and currently serve as the Vice President. I've been involved in TUTV's Feel Good Cooking Show as their Social Media and Graphic Design Coordinator. I've also gained valuable experience through work-study positions as a Peer Advisor at the Klein Academic Advising Office and as a Career Assistant at the Klein College Career Services. As a Klein Owl, I cherish the opportunities to collaborate with talented peers and industry professionals, inspiring personal and professional growth.

Owen Hill

Owen Hill

Media Studies and Production Major

Hello! My name is Owen Hill and I am a freshman media studies & production major and plan to pursue the sports media certificate. I am involved in TuTV's Owlsports Update as well as the Deans Student Advisory Board. One thing I enjoy most about being a Temple Owl is resources they have to offer to put me in a position to succeed. While it's important to stay focused on your goals, don't forget to enjoy the present moment because these years will fly by faster than you expect.

Klein Rising Staff