not easy. It is definitely intimidating at the beginning, but the GLM program has helped me throughout this whole transitioning process. I was first a mentee when I joined Penn State Harrisburg and the next year I chose to become a mentor. All the mentors in the program are very helpful and are always looking out for the new international students and helping them in any and every way possible. They help us get adjusted to the new environment smoothly and help us meet new people who come from different parts of the world. GLM has made me feel like home as all the members in the program put in their best effort to give us a homely feeling even though we’re far away from our actual homes. GLM hosts various fun programs and trips on campus as well as off campus throughout the year. GLM is an open door to meeting new people who have now become my family!
Analee Maria D’silva,Information Systems and Business Management
GLM taught me that the college experience is about much more than simply being the prerequisite for a stable career. Heading into college I was hoping to leave with just a degree, but instead I've gained wonderful experiences with people that I can easily call family. My life has been richly blessed by the interactions I've had with so many special friends, those whom I never would have met if it had not been for this program. The privilege of being a mentor has led me to become aware of the amazing learning potential when you face life's challenges with a friend who has different perspectives than your own. I will never ever forget the fabulous memories made through GLM, and I know the perspective I've gained through relationships in this program will carry on for the rest of my life.
Josh Gray,Kinesiology
As a mentor, I not only assisted new international students, but had the opportunity to meet lots of students I never would have met otherwise. This includes other mentors and mentees. During my first year at Penn State Harrisburg, I informally helped some of the international students I became friends with. Joining the GLM Program has allowed me to do that on a bigger scale and also learn about other cultures. The GLM Program is an amazing group of mentors, mentees, and staff with plenty of trips and events to bring everyone closer together.
I am currently an undergrad student in psychology at Penn State Harrisburg. I was born and raised in Mexico City and came to the United States when I was 13. I love dancing, and doing karaoke with my friends and am always down for an adventure.
Sam Renteria,Psychology
Hi! My name is Brenda, I am an undergraduate student majoring in Biology. I joined the mentor program about a year ago. It’s been a pleasure to be able to guide international students the best I can. The transition from one country to another can be full of challenges, but the program makes the transition less challenging for international students. The events and the programs organized really helped me connect to not only my mentee, but also other students in the program. All in all, GLM is an amazing program!
Brenda Mwangi,Biology
I joined the Global Lion Mentors program in 2019 and that was the beginning of many activities and trips to come. Through this program, I got an opportunity to meet new people, learn new cultures/languages and explore a part of the country I hadn't imagined. Every semester, I receive an opportunity to connect with a new mentee, take part in inter-cultural activities, and most importantly have a great time at Penn State Harrisburg.
Prabin Bhattarai,Civil Engineering
It has been a really great and rewarding experience being a part of GLM. I became a mentor last year and have made many friendships. I love engaging with other mentors and growing close to them as we seek ways to provide support during the transition for new mentees and international students. I also love seeing mentees who have been a part of the program wanting to become mentors for students as well. GLM doesn't just feel like a program it feels more like a family.
Rebekah Long,Marketing, Human Resource Management
Being a part of the GLM program for the past year brought about a lot of learning, friendship and fun, but most importantly, it helped me to get out and get involved while being able to help make a difference in someone else’s experience on campus. My fellow mentors have been a great support and their advice and friendship has made my time at Penn State Harrisburg memorable as well. I wish I had known about this program when I was a freshman, since I can see how the GLM program plays a crucial role in welcoming international students and making them feel at home, but I hope I can help others with their experience at Penn State Harrisburg!
Joanne Albert,Biology
Hello! I am Naufal from Indonesia. I have been a part of GLM since I started studying at Penn State Harrisburg. In fact, my mentor was the first person I met on campus. Having a mentor from GLM is really a unique and helpful experience as we meet different people from around the globe and learn from them on how to adapt to the local American culture. This inspired me to become a mentor myself and help other students in adjusting to their life here in Middletown. Being a mentor is a challenge because it is not easy to connect with strangers. But GLM became a platform for all of us to grow together and learn each other’s culture. No matter what nationality, hobbies, and interests, you will always find yourself a place in GLM and discover new friends that will share the same interests as you!
Naufal Murtadza,Civil Engineering
I have 3 other siblings, and I am an elder sister to two of them. The GLM program lets me continue that role as a mentor even when I am away from home! I love getting to help guide others toward the right path. If I can make a difference in even one person's life, then that means a lot to me. GLM is a close-knit family, and I am glad to be a part of it!
