Public Health Sciences Peer Advising
We are a group of experienced and involved students on campus with a twofold objective: to support you in your academic needs and promote the understanding of public health. Although we will not tell you which classes to take or avoid, we will offer insight to help you make the best, informed decision about your own academic career. If you are interested in taking part in the peer advising internship, please look for our application announcement each spring semester.
Fall 2026 Peer Advising Schedule
(No appointments necessary, September 8th - December 15th)
Monday: 9AM - 12PM, 1:45PM - 4PM
Tuesday: 10AM - 4:30PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 12PM
Thursday: 9AM - 4:15PM
Friday: CLOSED
Office: SPHHS Hub Room 316
E-mail: peerad [at] umass [dot] edu (peerad[at]umass[dot]edu)
Alison Martin (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of interest: Healthcare Administration, Health Policy, and Health Economics
Office Hours: Tuesdays 11am-12:30pm, Thursdays 10:30am-12:30pm
Hi! I’m Bonnie, and I’m from Brookline, MA. I’m a senior Public Health major, and my areas of interest are healthcare administration and health policy. I’m also part of the 4+1 Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management program. I chose public health because I knew I wanted to work in healthcare and help people, but I didn’t see myself working as a physician or in a traditional clinical setting. That’s when I learned about healthcare administration and discovered public health. This is my second year as a Peer Advisor, so I’m excited to be back, helping students and working with the other Peer Advisors.
Outside of peer advising, I’m also part of the UMass Club Swim Team! This past summer, I worked as a Health & Safety Intern in Norwell, and I also worked as a lifeguard.
My advice for fellow students would be to go check out the different clubs and organizations UMass has to offer. They are always hosting events, and it’s the perfect opportunity to meet new people and see what you are interested in!
Caleb Lam (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Clinical health
Office Hours: Monday 1:45 PM - 4:00 PM, Wednesday 10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Hi my name is Caleb! I am from Quincy, Massachusetts and I am currently a senior majoring in Public Health while pursuing the Pre-Pa health track. I chose Public Health as my major because of the variability the major provides, allowing me to explore numerous different fields/types of studies of Public Health and also being part of the health sciences, which gives me the opportunity to pursue most pre-health tracks.
Outside of peer advising, you can always find me either eating food in dining halls, playing volleyball or basketball at Boyden, or working out at the rec center. Over the past summer I worked as one of the head peer advisors while also enjoying my summer with activities like hiking, attending concerts/festivals, and more.
One advice I would give to a fellow student is to take advantage of all the resources/opportunities UMass has to offer. Some resources/opportunities like internships or leadership roles in clubs may take a little more time or work to be able to obtain, but others like SI sessions for different classes, Peer Advisor drop-in hours, clubs and many different organizations are there for you to help you as a student here at Umass Amherst. As a junior, the one thing I regret is not being aware of all these resources my freshman and sophomore year and being more engaged on campus.
Sakshi Mantripragada (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Women's Health, Health Policy, Data Analytics
Office Hours: Tuesdays 2:30PM- 4:30PM and Thursdays 2:30PM-4:00PM
Hi! My name is Sakshi Mantripragada and I am from Chelmsford, MA.
I’m a Public Health and Public Policy double major and I have a minor in Information Technology. I joined the major my freshman year and really loved how many different areas within health I was able to dive into. I specifically am interested in women’s health and being a part of research and projects that focus on underrepresented groups and help to fill the gap in health research. This year I am really excited to be a peer advisor and help students navigate the major and discover what they are interested in!
At UMass, I am a part of Her Campus, a magazine for college women where you get to write articles about things you are passionate about and that interest you. Alongside that, I serve as a Research Assistant in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, where our work focuses on diversity within higher education leadership. This past summer, I interned with a digital health company focused on supporting women during perimenopause. Last semester I spent studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain. It was an amazing experience, so please feel free to ask me any questions!
My advice to fellow students would be to get involved and take initiative. All of our faculty and staff in SPHHS are so supportive and truly love to help students grow and learn. Whether you get involved in research or join a club, putting yourself out there and reaching out really helps you find your community and discover what you are truly passionate about!
Dylan Smith (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Healthcare Management, Public Health Nursing, Health Promotion and Communication
Office Hours: Mondays 9:30AM - 11:30PM and Wednesdays 9AM -10:30AM
Hello all, my name is Dylan, and I’m from Boston, Massachusetts! I am currently a senior studying public health sciences, with a minor in business. Currently, I am enrolled in the 4+1 program, in hopes of earning my MPH in Health Policy and Management. I’m interested in becoming a public health nurse or being a public health program manager. The reason I chose to pursue public health is a reflection of where I grew up in Boston. For those who don’t know, the leading cause of premature death in Boston is drug overdose, and growing up seeing drug abuse so frequently is what made public health so compelling. Becoming a peer advisor is an exciting responsibility, and I specifically look forward to building community within SPHHS and supporting my peers.
Outside of being a peer advisor, I also have a job at the Mullins Center as changeover staff (I change the floor in between basketball and ice hockey). Additionally, I am a member of the Isenberg Sales Club, which naturally doesn’t have a whole lot to do with public health. This past summer, I was interning at the Boston Public Health Commission within the Chronic Disease Prevention and Control division. I mostly helped promote the Summer Fitness Series, which is a series of free, weekly fitness classes that took place in parks scattered throughout every neighborhood in Boston. The goal of this healthcare initiative is to reduce the risk of heart and cardiovascular diseases.
My advice for incoming and fellow students would be to seek connection through sparking conversations. Something I struggled with, especially as a freshman, was putting up barriers and self-isolating when I really should have been trying to find friends. College becomes way more enjoyable when you have a wider network of friends.
Paris Pequero Pena (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2028
Areas of Interest: Pre-PA, Epidemiology
Office Hours: Mondays 9:30AM-10:30 AM, Thursdays 9AM-11AM
Hello everyone! My name is Paris, I was born and raised in Boston. I am a current junior public health major on the Pre-Physician Associate track! I choose public health because it is very near and dear to my heart with many disciples ranging from epidemiology, biostatistics and the social sciences, this major truly has something for everyone. I am thrilled to be a peer advisor to create an amazing public health community, and to make all of those who are facing challenges feel a little more comfortable!
On campus I am involved in Greek Life, I am Alpha Sigma Kappa’s Vice President of Operations. And the secretary of HOSA, a future health professionals organization. Alongside this, I am also a general body member of the Cafe and Pre-PA club! This past summer I became a certified phlebotomy technician! Outside of classes, I love going to the gym and taking on ambitious hikes around Amherst!
As a student myself the biggest advice I could give is simply putting yourself out there, whether you are an incoming freshman or upper classmen the more you experience, the more connections you make that will flourish into unimaginable things!
Michael Kelleher (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Mental Health, Psychiatry, Epidemiology, Disease Prevention
Office Hours: Tuesdays 9AM - 11AM, Wednesdays 10:30AM-12PM
My name is Mike, and I am from Lowell, Massachusetts, majoring in public health with a focus on mental health and a psychology minor. I chose public health because it’s so broad and offers a million different possibilities. I am very interested in the mental aspect of public health and hope to someday work as a therapist and psychiatrist.
At UMass, I am involved with the Active Minds club that works to destigmatize mental health stereotypes and negative beliefs through open conversation and connection. Every person has mental health, and it looks different for everybody. We choose to celebrate these differences and create a community where everyone is welcome.
UMass is a huge school, and it can sometimes feel very isolating and overwhelming. My advice for fellow students is to try absolutely everything, no matter what. You will not grow or find out more about who you are unless you push yourself out of your comfort zone. The four years here go by very quickly, and you do not want to graduate with any regrets or things you wish you tried but did not.
Tashi Mulug-Labrang (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2028
Areas of Interest: Clinical Healthcare
Office Hours: Mondays 1:45PM-4PM, Thursdays 1PM-2:15PM
Hi, I am Tashi, and I'm from Cambridge, MA. I am a junior Public Health Sciences major and an Isenberg Business minor. My plan after grad is to go to Physician Assistant school. Going into college, I wasn't 100% sure what I wanted to do, but I did want to do something in health, so I chose Public Health with so many future career options. As I became aware of future careers, I resonated with becoming a Physician Assistant, as it is hands-on and involves helping direct patients. I am excited to be a peer advisor so I can give guidance to students who are seeking help, as I was once a young underclassman struggling with college and just needing someone with more experience to help me.
I don't only love Public Health at UMass. I have been blessed to be a part of multiple great communities, such as Club volleyball, a sport I love and have been playing for 8 years. Also, I am Tibetan, so I am a part of Students for A Free Tibet at the UMass chapter. I am a Resident Assistant at McNamara Hall, which is something new but fun, organizing events. Outside of UMass, I love hanging out with friends and being active, such as going to the gym or playing any sort of sport.
My advice for fellow students is to interact with as many people as you can; a lot of people are very friendly and helpful, you just have to take that leap. Experiment with everything; join anything that might pique your interest. It'll be a learning experience even if you don't end up liking it. Lastly, go make memories and have fun, as we are young right now.
Lakshmi Doobay (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Health Equity, Health Policy & Management
Office Hours: Tuesdays 11:30AM - 1PM, Thursdays 12PM - 2PM
Hi everyone! My name is Lakshmi Doobay and I’m from Oradell, New Jersey! I’m a senior public health major with a business administration minor. I chose public health because I’m interested in how social determinants influence quality access to healthcare for underserved populations. I’m looking to pursue a career in health policy and management to better understand health-services and policy research. I am excited to be a peer advisor to make students feel more confident, supported, and connected to opportunities.
On campus, I am part of the Commonwealth Honors College and a health equity research lab. I love to travel, and have been to 21 countries! This past summer, I worked as a research assistant in Maryland and visited Acadia National Park.
My advice to students would be get involved on campus and be yourself! Utilize your resources and do not be afraid to ask for help!
Harper Rees (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Pre-Nursing, Chronic Disease Prevention
Office Hours: Mondays 10:30AM - 12PM, Wednesdays 9:30AM - 11:30AM
Hello! My name is Harper. I am from Ipswich, MA. I am studying public health sciences on a pre-nursing track. I am interested in public health because I want to help others have access to being their best self. I am interested in going to nursing school after UMass, so I can be more hands-on in the healthcare field.
On campus, I am a part of a research group & a member of AWIS and public health club. I love to travel! I’ve been to Europe and Australia. This summer I went to Utah.
My advice for a fellow student is to not be scared. There are thousands of people here and many are also in the same boat as you. So don't be scared to talk to your peers, TA’s, professors, and advisors. Also, discover and utilize your resources on campus, especially since you are paying for them.
Hannah Bezahler (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Health Program Development, Community Health Education, Occupational Safety
Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30AM - 11:30AM, Thursdays 9AM - 10:30 PM
Hi! My name is Hannah Bezahler, and I’m from Readington, NJ. I’m a senior Public Health Sciences major in the Commonwealth Honors College, with a minor in Psychology. I started my time at UMass as a History and Education double major before I joined the SPHHS. Though I was nervous to make the switch, I could not be happier that I did. I love how broad public health is, and that there is something for everyone. My personal areas of interest include health program development, community health education, and occupational safety.
Beyond being a peer advisor, I am the vice president of NeuroArt. This is a registered student organization that leads biweekly art therapy workshops for community members affected by neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and dementia. You definitely don’t have to be an artist to join, and it’s a really meaningful way to give back to the community! I also work at the Thoreau Residential service desk, so if you live in Southwest, you may have picked up a package or two from me. Outside of work and school, I love watching sitcoms, reading, interior design, and hanging out with my two dogs.
My advice for fellow students is that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. College is a time to try new things, put yourself out there, and find what you truly enjoy. Most importantly, don’t compare your college experience or accomplishments to those of your friends and classmates. Everyone’s paths look different, and things have a way of working out as they are meant to.
Griffin Coppola (Pronouns: he/him/his), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Health Economics, Data Science/Analysis, Health Administration
Office Hours: Tuesdays 2PM - 4PM, Thursdays 11:30AM - 1PM
Hi! I'm Griffin, and I'm from Hingham, MA. I'm pursuing a dual degree in Public Health and Managerial Economics. Public health interests me because it touches every single aspect of life in some way, and I love how broad and far-reaching the field is. I'm excited to be a peer advisor because it lets me be a resource and mentor for students who are in the same shoes I was once in.
Outside of peer advising, I've enjoyed staying involved at UMass as a club soccer captain and a member of Phi Sigma Kappa. This past semester I studied abroad in Barcelona, and this past summer I interned as a data analyst in Boston.
My advice for students: get involved, reach out to your resources early and often, and do what you want to do, not what others want you to do.
Arni Potnis (Pronouns: she/her/hers), Graduating: Spring 2027
Areas of Interest: Health Policy and Management, Oral Health, Women's Health, Pre-Dental
Office Hours: Mondays 1:45PM - 3:45PM, Thursdays 2:30PM - 4:15PM
Hi! My name is Arni, and I am from Bellingham, MA. I am a senior in Public Health on the pre-dental track, and a student in the Honors College. I chose public health as my major because it would allow me to see healthcare through a wider perspective beyond clinical practice. I also have an interest in improving and evaluating health policy, which are skills I look forward to carrying forward as a future healthcare provider. I am also so excited to be a peer advisor and meet more people interested in public health! Something about me is that I was originally a biomedical engineering major, and I transferred to public health in the middle of my freshman year, and I am passionate about supporting other students through that change.
Aside from peer advising, I’m a research assistant for the Quality for All Lab (Q4A). In my lab we aim to address health inequalities through research and partnership with communities, and other researchers. I also volunteer at the campus pantry, and you can find me there on Thursday evenings, feel free to stop by! Previously, I also earned my EMT license. In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, swimming, lifting, and cooking. In my sophomore year, I went to Cyprus for a Winter study abroad program, so feel free to stop by and ask me any questions about it!
My biggest piece of advice to all students is to never stop meeting new people. Whether it's joining clubs, mutual friends, or making conversation with faculty and professors, making those connections can get you opportunities that would otherwise have been hidden. Building relationships can not only help you discover your own interests but also helps you build passion for your future!