Peer Leaders are undergraduate students that work in conjunction with a Lead Instructor to guide discussions within a section of FYS 101. Discussions are anchored around increasing the sense of belonging on the Syracuse University campus. Peer Leaders will lead two FYS 101 class discussions throughout the semester and will directly communicate with students throughout the semester.
Peer Leader applications for fall 2025 are now open on Handshake! Apply by Friday, March 7, 2025.
SA Masih Ghazanfari
Masih, from Aurora, New York, is a senior majoring in international relations, with a concentration in Middle East and North Africa human rights. In addition to his academic and ambassadorial commitments, Masih enjoys playing soccer and going to the gym, reflecting his dedication to a balanced and healthy lifestyle. His aspiration to become an FYS 101 Peer Leader is driven by his desire to make classes more engaging and interactive for first-year students. He aims to create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable and encouraged to interact with one another, fostering a sense of community and support.
“I’m excited to support first-year students and help them navigate their transition to college life. Being part of this program allows me to make a positive impact and give back to the Syracuse community.”
Ilhy Gomez Del Campo (he/him/his)
Ilhy is an undergraduate student and the president of the Writing and Rhetoric Student Organization. He has published two novels, and his short stories and articles have been published in multiple journals. Ilhy has also worked with SU publications such as Jerk Magazine, Intertext and MEND.
“I think FYS 101 can be a great space for first years to meet new friends and learn about campus life. It’s important to cultivate a space where people know they can ask questions, learn about each other, and learn about themselves.”
Elyas Layachi (he/him/his)
Elyas, a Long Island, New York native with Moroccan and Algerian heritage, is very excited to be a peer leader this semester! On campus, he is involved with the Shaw Center as an intern, with undergraduate research in the School of Education, and the Syracuse University Symphony Orchestra. Some of Elyas’ favorite things to do outside school include running, volunteering in his local community, and working as a camp counselor during the summers.
“Thanks to FYS 101 and my instructor and peer leader, my transition to Syracuse University and college living last fall was better and more supported than I anticipated it to be. As a peer leader, I intend to have a similar impact on my students, and to foster a nurturing, inclusive, and safe space for FYS 101.”
Maya Layton (she/her/hers)
Maya is a senior from Denver, Colorado, who loves spending time hiking and being in nature. Her favorite place in Syracuse is Green Lakes. She is participating in FYS this year because she has witnessed the significant impact a peer leader can have in helping students navigate their first year of college and understand their evolving identities as they move through their college careers and beyond.
“I participate in FYS 101 because it engages me to be more empathetic and understanding because the role gives the opportunity to be both an observer, but also a resource for others. I can actively make change and open others’ experiences to things they may not have thought of before and the same is offered to me as well.”
Sophie Navarrete (she/her/hers)
Sophie is a sophomore from Queens, New York, majoring in health and exercise science at the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics. She is a resident advisor and an executive board member of the Latiné Honors Society. She is also a sports medicine intern for the Syracuse Orange football team and enjoys exploring the Syracuse community with her friends in her free time.
“I wanted to become an FYS 101 Peer Leader to help create a welcoming environment for first years and transfer students. I hope to make their transition to Syracuse as positive and enjoyable as possible.”