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Meet your mentors
Anna
Hi there! I'm Anna, a North American Studies BA student from Ukraine, here to help you navigate uni life in Berlin. As someone who arrived as a refugee without knowing the language or having friends, I get just how overwhelming it can feel – trust me, I was an Erasmus student at FU, and those first two semesters were a real whirlwind. Now, I’ve found my way around and can confidently guide others through the maze of student life. I speak English, German, Ukrainian, Russian, and a touch of Italian!
When I'm not mentoring, you can find me dancing at UniSport classes, sipping on matcha, or exploring the cozy, leaf-strewn streets of Berlin. I’m also a fan of old-school hip-hop, rock music, and my cat – I promise I won’t show you too many photos…unless you insist! Looking forward to helping you feel at home here at FU!
Dalreen
Hallo! I'm Dalreen and I'm a Master's student specializing in Sociology at the John F. Kennedy Institut. I'm a native English speaker, and before coming to Berlin, worked in journalism and advertising. I love chatting about all things pop culture (mostly, Taylor Swift) and discovering cute cafés. I've come to adore Berlin during the two years I've lived here and have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at FU. I'd love to help you navigate the same :)
ELENA
Hi! I’m Elena. I’m from Santander, a beautiful city on the northern coast of Spain. Before coming to Berlin, I spent four years in Madrid, where I completed my degree in Physics. I speak Spanish, English and some German. Now, I’m in my third semester at FU, working on my Master’s thesis in Physics. I’m really into books, movies, and shows—and I can't get through the day without my coffee and tea!
Being in an international environment is exciting, but I understand how challenging it can be to start fresh in a new city without knowing anyone. That’s why I’d love to help make your first months in Berlin a bit easier and more enjoyable! :)
Ella
Hi! I'm Ella and I come from the UK. I came to Berlin just over two years ago to study Computational Sciences here at the FU, and I'm now writing my master's thesis. I speak English and Spanish, and my German is coming along slowly! Outside of my studies, I love both cooking and eating - a perfect pairing! I'm also an avid reader. Settling into a new city can be challenging, but we mentors are here to support you and help you to feel at home. I look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to the FU!
KAYO
Hello everyone! I’m Kayo, a passionate Psychology student from Vietnam, fluent in Vietnamese, English, German, and Japanese. As a language enthusiast, I believe languages are key to understanding different cultures and perspectives, and I’m excited to meet people from diverse backgrounds! (PS: I’m also planning to learn Italian and Chinese in the near future.)
I love active group activities and exploring Berlin—so if you’re up for lighthearted fun, count me in! My goal as a peer mentor is to create a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable sharing and learning from one another, without fear of judgment. Whether it’s hosting exciting events, exchanging experiences, or simply offering a listening ear, I’m here to support you. I can’t wait to meet you and embark on this journey together!
Merna
Hello everyone! I'm Merna, I'm from Egypt, and I'm doing my masters in Interdisciplinary Studies of the Middle East, History and Culture Studies department. Here's a little about me: I speak English and Arabic at native level. I love being active and like to think of myself as a Tennis enthusiast! (you're welcome to join for a friendly rally anytime!). I know how tough settling in a new place can be, that's why it would bring me so much joy if I can help my fellow students in their journey as they settle into Berlin. If you're looking for guidance, an open ear, or just a fresh perspective, I'm here to help. I'll leave you with a quote from my favorite TV show, it goes: "The forest is dark and scary but the only way out is through!".
NANDINY
Hello! My name is Mithila Nandiny Shome, but feel free to call me Nandiny. I am from Bangladesh. Right now I am studying Bachelor in Biology at FU in my 5th semester. Before this, I studied medicine in Ukraine for three years. Unfortunately, I couldn't continue studying there due to the war. The language of instruction for my study is German, and I speak five languages: Bengali (my mother tongue), English, Hindi, Ukrainian, and German.
I have a deep passion for traveling and discovering new cultures. Over the past few years, I have traveled to many countries across Asia and Europe, which has allowed me to build a diverse network of friends and mentors from all over the world. This has taught me that, in today’s globalised world, we’re all connected like a small village and inspired me to embrace diversity and learn from different perspectives.
My journey at FU has been full of challenges, but each one has been a valuable learning experience. Navigating academic pressures or adapting to the academic expectations at FU or introducing to a new life in a new country, I've faced it all! Coming to an unknown city like Berlin can be overwhelming at first, but I believe we can solve this problem together. There are so many amazing places to discover here, from hidden cafés to beautiful parks and lively cultural spots. Let’s explore FU and Berlin together!
In my peer mentoring group, I focus on creating a supportive and comfortable environment where everyone can learn from each other, wether If you're facing challenges with your study or language, or simply finding your way around, I’m here to help you. Let’s share experiences, grow together, and make this journey at FU a little bit easier and a lot more enjoyable.
NINO
Study: BA Language and Society, English Philology
Languages: Georgian, English, German, Russian, tiny bit of Spanish
Special interest: finding a friendly connection with anyone
My mission in Sessions: creating a welcoming environment to share anything that's on your mind, creating new connections with people and trying to find solutions for the issues that concern you
Özden
Study: MA Sociology
Languages: Turkish, English, German and I can "Hello" in 8 other languages!
Fun fact about me: I am a solo traveller!
Mentoring sessions: I do present my knowledge about FU Berlin in an advanced way as well as I try to make the sessions as friendly space!
SHUHAN
Hi there! My name is Shuhan, a Master Biology student from China. I speak three languages; Chinese, English and German, and would like to learn Japanese if I have the chance. I'm a total museum buff! Still not used to Sundays when nothing is open in Germany? Why not spend your Sundays exploring Berlin's museums? Berlin is a fascinating city, and as a mentor I hope I can help you not only learn more about campus life, but also explore more of the city's charm!
Fun fact about me: I'm a 100% DOG PERSON.
United by a shared passion for fostering community, we are dedicated to helping fellow students feel welcome and supported at FU Berlin.