The Asian American Cultural Center (AACC) Mentor & Mentee (M&M) Program pairs incoming first-year and transfer students with mentors who will aid their mentees in adjusting to campus life and serve as a resource during the academic year. The M&M program aims to connect students with diverse communities at Rutgers. Mentors will provide guidance, motivation, and resources to better support mentees. The AACC hosts monthly events that focus on developing different skills such as academic registration, networking, and career building. In addition, mentors and mentees get the opportunity to engage in the Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi (American) community on campus.
If you have any questions, please email us at aacc.mentors@gmail.com
View our other socials and links: linktr.ee/aacc.mentors
Benefits for Mentors
As a mentor, you will support incoming first-year/transfer students throughout their transition at Rutgers University, giving you the opportunity to develop more skills and connections throughout the year. You can get a learning opportunity by interacting with people of diverse backgrounds and giving back to the community by passing your knowledge to your mentee.
Some skills you will gain are networking skills Developing leadership and management qualities. You will also develop problem solving and time management skills, while enhancing your communication skills and personal growth.
Benefits for Mentees
- Guidance regarding assimilation into college life, with a focus in Asian American specific issues (identity, stereotypes, etc.)
- Personal one-on-one support and the ability to create friendships with those of a similar ethnic background
- Monthly events and meetings to ensure mentor and mentee relationship is strong and supported
- Assistance with getting connected to diverse communities at Rutgers and assurance that they are able to get involved on campus
- Exposure to the AACC’s numerous APIDA-specific events as well and resources such as Career Month, “Let’s Talk”, PALNY and APIDA Heritage Month
- The development of feelings of empowerment and confidence as an Asian-American on campus
Peer Mentor Coordinators - Student Leaders 2025 - 2026
Aleena Kibria, Peer Mentor Coordinator
Aleena is a third year in the School of Arts and Sciences studying Political Science and Informational Technology and Informatics. She is pursuing a career in Corporate Law and hopes to study in law school after undergrad. On campus, she is a member of the professional service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, a Zimmerli Art Museum Student Ambassador, an active Rutgers Dance Marathon Liaison/Dancer, and a member of South Asians in Legal Studies club. Aleena started as a Federal Work Study student her freshman year, and she was encouraged to become a Mentee. The experience greatly inspired her to curate exciting community building events as an AACC Program Coordinator and develop her connection to the APIDA diaspora.
Besan Abusharia, Peer Mentor Coordinator
Besan Abusharia is a Public Health major at Rutgers University dedicated to community engagement and addressing social disparities through public service. Her passion for civic involvement and contributing to community needs began in high school when she founded the first Muslim club in Woodbridge Township, fostering inclusive spaces through cultural and religious representation. At Rutgers, she continues this work as a Program Coordinator for the Asian American Cultural Center’s Mentor-Mentee Program, where she supports student success and promotes cultural identity through meaningful peer connections. She also interns with coLAB Arts’ New Brunswick Documenters program in the Science Communication and Public Policy tracks, documenting public meetings on topics like environmental justice, climate resilience, and urban infrastructure. Through this role, she helps bridge science, policy, and community health using civic storytelling and creative engagement. With the Voorhees Fellowship, she looks forward to learning from community leaders and contributing to meaningful public health solutions.
Simaak Hussain, Peer Mentor Coordinator
Pursuing his Sophomore year in biological sciences at Rutgers University, Simaak Hussain has also dedicated himself to the position of peer coordinator. After earning his degree, he seeks to pursue a career in medical school, with a desire to specialize in pediatrics or dermatology. Inspired by his Bangladeshi background, which emphasizes a strong sense of community, he followed the path of a peer coordinator to inspire and advocate for awareness of APIDA communities and their members.
Malak Abusharia, Peer Mentor Coordinator
Malak is a senior majoring in Information Technology and Informatics with a minor in Public Policy. She was part of the Rutgers Scarlet Service Cohort, where she interned with the Institute of International Education as an Exchange Visitor Sponsorship Communications and Outreach Intern. Currently, Malak serves as a Campus Intern for CDW, acting as a liaison between campus clients and the company while also researching technology initiatives across the university. Before stepping into her role as Program Coordinator, Malak served as a mentor for two years. Her passion for celebrating diverse cultures and exploring their interconnectedness inspired her to apply for the Peer Mentor Program Coordinator position. As an active member of the APIDA community, Malak has gained a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural influences that shape both the community and her own identity. Her journey of cultural exploration has broadened her perspective, strengthened her understanding of shared experiences, and continues to motivate her to remain an engaged and dedicated member.
Mentee Recruitment
Mentee Applications are now live! Please fill out the AACC Mentee Application so we can collect your information and Mentor preferences! You will be notified of your acceptance as a Mentee when the academic year begins in fall! If you are looking to apply to be a Mentor or have any other inquiries, please contact us through our socials and email below.
To stay up to date with us, be sure to follow us at @aacc.mentoring on Instagram!
If you have any questions, please DM us on Instagram or email us at aacc.mentors@gmail.com!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there any requirements needed to apply?
No! All first-year and transfer students are welcomed to apply.
- What does APIDA stand for?
APIDA stands for Asian American Pacific Islander Desi American, a pan-ethnic classification that includes ethnics and identities of countries in Asia and many islands and island groups in the Pacific. There is a huge diversity of religions and values among the APIDA population. Over hundreds of languages and dialects are represented.
- What makes the AACC Mentoring Program different from other programs?
The AACC Mentoring Program provides a unique experience by allowing mentees to learn more about Asian culture and become involved with the APIDA community here at Rutgers. The mentoring program allows mentees to relate with their mentors on similar experiences as Asian Americans while also receiving guidance and advice.
- Do you have to be identified as APIDA to apply?
No! We welcome students of all races and ethnicities who wants to be involved with the APIDA community at Rutgers.
- How do I get matched with a mentor?
After filling out the application, we look to match Mentees with Mentors based on major, gender identity preference, and interests.
- What is the time commitment as Mentee?
Being a mentee does not take a huge time commitment. Mentees can meet with their mentors during times that works best for them. You will utilize your time management skills to balance your commitments.
- How will I communicate with my Mentor? Will we need to meet face to face?
Due to COVID-19, communication may be in any form of their choice such as via phone, e-mail, web meeting etc., as long as both parties feel comfortable.
