Hi, My name is Simon. I'm in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department PhD program and I mainly research heart pumps. I was raised in Houston and I love giving recommendations on places to go, eat, and see to leave campus for a little and make Houston feel more like home.

Hi! I'm a master’s student in Bioengineering who believes wellness isn’t just about balance—it’s about finding joy in the everyday. For me, that means blasting Karol G, traveling to different sporting events, going on runs, and lifting weights to clear my mind. But my heart is happiest when I’m spending time with my family, my dogs, and giving back to my community. Whether it's volunteering at local shelters or hospitals, I try to stay grounded by staying connected. I'm excited to be part of the Wellness Peer team and to support others in finding their own version of wellness!

Hi! I'm Ivy, a sixth-year graduate student in the Physics and Astronomy department, where I work on machine learning applications towards particle physics with awesome folks from around the world. When I'm not working, you'll find me bartending at Valhalla, organizing campus events with the Queer Graduate Student Association and oSTEM, or tending to my tank of black skirt tetras. As a first generation college student, I know first hand just how overwhelming graduate school can be. Whether you need someone to vent to, want advice for navigating academia, need food recommendations around Houston, or just want to chat, please don't hesitate to reach out. :)

Hi! my I am a fourth year PhD student in electrical and computer engineering. I love helping others and talking about art.

Ila Gaur is a Master’s student in Engineering Management & Leadership at Rice University with over seven years of professional experience in the IT industry. She has led and mentored diverse teams across multiple companies and states in India, delivering projects in operations, process optimization, and technology integration. Her expertise lies in bridging technical solutions with business needs, driving innovation, and enhancing operational efficiency in fast-paced, customer-focused environments.

Hi! I'm Jesse from the Bioengineering department. I'm a fourth-year graduate student, so you can be assured I've thoroughly enjoyed and suffered as a PhD student to understand your struggles. When I'm not rotting away at the BRC, you'll likely find me at the Dunhuang plaza being a foodie or enjoying some boba at Chicha. I strongly believe that a healthy mental state is integral to completing a graduate program and pursuing a career you are truly passionate about. If you are deeply stressed or just not feeling it today, know that your peers, your friends, and your family have your back.

Hey everyone! My name is Nitisha. I'm a 4th-year PhD student in Material Science 🔬 and your GSA VP of Finance! Originally from Lucknow, India , you can usually find me tending to my plants, looking for the spiciest food, or counting down the days to Christmas! 🌱🌶️🎄 As an international student, I know the journey here can be a wild ride—from cultural shifts to academic pressures. I’m passionate about making that journey easier for you. My goal is to help our international community feel supported and connected. Let's make this a great year together!

Rice Masters in Global Affairs 2nd year Graduate Student. Marianne, better known as Yani by her peers and friends, enjoys painting, trying new foods, and traveling. She's an INFJ and finds comfort in her dog Oreo.

Hello! My name is Sanskruti, and I am a second-year grad student in EEPS! I research Solar System dynamics and terrestrial planet formation using computer modeling. I am also currently the EEPS GSA president. I mostly grew up in Ohio, so I'm super excited to be in Houston. In my free time, I like to run, cook, try various cafes around town, and hang out with my cat. I would love to chat about having a pet, exploring the city, and everything in between, so feel free to reach out :)

Tanya Medure is a Professional MBA student at Rice Business and President of Rice PAWS (Pets & Animal Welfare Society). Known for her empathy and commitment to building trust, she values creating meaningful friendships and a supportive community at Rice. In addition to her studies, Tanya is a licensed speech-language pathologist and residential real estate advisor in Houston, where she combines healthcare expertise with business insight to serve others with integrity and care.

Hi! I’m Sophie, and I’m a first-year bioengineering PhD student. When I’m not in the lab, I enjoy running and reading. As an undergrad, I was part of a program similar to the GWP program, and I look forward to building on my experience to help the Rice grad student community. I hope that anyone who needs support with their wellbeing will connect with a GWP - no problem is too big or too small!

I'm Mary Le - a rising second-year Ph.D. student from the Department of Economics. I was born and raised in the beautiful coastal city Danang, Vietnam. Prior to joining Rice, I was at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and called the Midwest home for 3 years. I love Houston for its diversity and vibrant culture although sometimes I wish it were a little more organized. I enjoy going to its cafes, museums, and parks. Outside of school work and research, I like doing BJJ, any outdoorsy activities, reading, and learning the piano. Also, I make time to take care of my mental health with meditation and listening to my favorite podcast - Being Well by Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson!

Hi! My name is Elaine, and I’m a first-year PhD student in Statistics, originally from China. I hope to support you just as my peers have supported me, and I’m here to listen whenever you need. Feel free to ask me about managing stress, working through social challenges, adjusting to life at Rice as an international student, and more.

Hello! My name is Savannah Simms, and I am a first-year Master of Global Affairs student and member of the Rice Women’s Track and Field team. Throughout my experience, I have dealt with the feeling of pressure, whether it’s chasing academic goals, competing in sports, or simply trying to keep up with life. However, I have learned that wellness is all about balance. There are moments when your mind and body are ready to push forward, and other times when you need to pause and rest. In any of these moments, I’m here to support you through deep conversations, laughter, or just holding space to breathe. I believe connection is what keeps us grounded, and I seek to make everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. Fun facts: I have a cat and dog, my favorite animal is a sloth, I am from Atlanta, I love music and books, and my favorite holiday is Christmas.

I'm in my final semester of the Professional Science Master's Program in Bioscience and Health Policy. After graduation, I plan to apply to PA school. Outside of school, I enjoy going to concerts, playing volleyball, spending cozy nights watching movies or series, and traveling to new places.