International & Domestic Programs Peer Mentors

Malia Battafarano

Study Abroad Program: IFSA Mérida Universities Program, spring 2023

Major: Spanish

Class Year: Spring 2024

Why Did I Study Abroad? When I was young, I saw my older siblings transformed by their study abroad programs. I was not able to travel internationally myself due to the expense, and I promised myself that when I got to college, I wouldn’t let the opportunity pass me by. The COVID-19 pandemic and being a pre-health student made study abroad seem like a daunting goal at times, but Pomona’s flexibility and commitment to making the experience affordable allowed me to follow through with my childhood dreams. My semester in Mexico vastly improved my language skills and allowed me to study Latin American and indigenous literature where it originated, which was such a rich experience. Because I was directly enrolled and living with a host family, I was also able to form many meaningful friendships with locals, who broadened my perspective and made Mérida feel like home. I am so grateful for my experience and excited to help other students embark on their own adventures.

Specific Topics of Interest: Language programs, being a woman abroad, volunteering abroad, being a pre-health student

On-Campus Activities: Weekly Writing Workshop coordinator, Humanities Studio Fellow, Pomona Valley Hospital and Medical Center volunteer, Spanish liaison

Favorite place at Pomona: The Farm

Spring 2024 Hours: Monday 9:00-10:00 AM, Tuesday 1:00-5:00 PM, Wednesday 9:00-10:00 AM, Friday 9:00-12:00 AM


Mustafa Khayam

Study Abroad Program: IFSA University of Melbourne Partnership, spring 2023

Majors: Chemistry

Class Year: Spring 2025

Why Did I Study Abroad? When I learnt about Pomona’s study abroad options, I immediately made up my mind that I would try my best to study abroad. My curious soul and search for new adventures is what brought me to Pomona as an international student, and that same spirit led me to studying abroad. I enjoy experiencing new environments, both academic and cultural, and so study abroad seemed to be a perfect opportunity to satiate this desire. I believe that while a change in setting brings new challenges, it is from those very challenges that you will learn and grow as a person. Studying abroad allowed me to experience these new challenges, make mistakes, and allow room for personal growth. Looking back, I am very grateful for my time abroad, the lessons it taught me, and all the memories it gave me! And if the idea of studying abroad ever pops into your mind feel free to chat to me about it anytime, I’m happy to help.

Specific Topics of Interest: International students studying abroad, STEM students abroad

On campus Activities: Chemistry Liaison, 5C Cricket Club, 5C Science Bus

Favorite place at Pomona: Seaver North

Spring 2024 Hours: Tuesday 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, Thursday 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, Friday 1:00-5:00 PM


Nicole Lechner

Study Abroad Programs: IES Abroad European Union, fall 2022; CMC Silicon Valley Program, spring 2023

Major: Economics

Class Year: Spring 2024

Why Did I Study Away? When I transferred to Pomona as a nontraditional, first generation and low-income student, I knew little about studying abroad, but just that it seemed impossible for me. When I learned of Pomona's extensive list of programs abroad, I began to explore and see if there was any possibility for me participate. I learned that there were many opportunities for me, and that I would not have to worry about incurring additional expenses or sacrificing my finances to try and make it happen. I ultimately landed on the Freiburg European Union program because it fits in well with being an economics major and was a unique program that was heavy on traveling to different parts of Europe. My grandparents also came from Germany, so I wanted to explore this familial component. Germany was a chance for me to develop my cultural leadership skills and grow in many personal ways as I left the United states for the first time ever. Next, I discovered the Silicon Valley Program and the potential to take part in an internship as well as courses geared towards my major and technological innovations. This program would give me the opportunity to learn networking and career skills, which I felt I was lacking as a student with my background. I have been honored to have the chance to participate in two very unique programs that are also very different from each other. Ultimately, these programs gave me the chance to push myself outside of my comfort zone in terms of developing a greater understanding of parts of the world that I was unfamiliar with, developing professionally, and finally transforming myself personally.

Specific Topics of Interest: First generation and low-income students abroad, transfers students, veterans, mental health while abroad

On-Campus Activities: Transfer student events, Veteran's Club/veteran student events, Chess Club, Claremont Christian Fellowship

Favorite place in Claremont: The sitting area between the baseball field and bridges auditorium

Spring 2024 Hours: Monday 3:00-5:00 PM, Tuesday 9:00-10:00 AM, Wednesday 3:00-5:00 PM, Thursday 9:00-10:00 AM


Brandolyn Thomas

Study Abroad Program: DIS - Study Abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, fall 2022

Major: Public Policy Analysis - Politics

Class Year: Spring 2024

Why Did I Study Away? When accepted to Pomona, I knew I wanted to study abroad. I've always had an explorative, adventurous spirit, so I wanted to take these attributes to the next step by visiting other countries. Prior to college, I did not have access to international travel, so I jumped into all the resources the IDPO and the greater Pomona community has to offer! After my first advisor meeting, I knew DIS Copenhagen was the place for me! I spent four fruitful months exploring the beautiful city of CPH, eating Danish delicacies, traveling to other countries, and creating meaningful bonds with other students in my program. I met two lifelong friends that I still visit even after my abroad experience ended. Being an FGLI student, I am very grateful for all the resources and support provided during my time away, so I want to give back to an office dear to my heart by helping students find their own adventures :)

Specific Topics of Interest: First time travelers, Welfare Structurization, Policy Implementation, International Human Rights Law, finances abroad

On-Campus Activities: First-Generation Low-Income Mentor, Mock Trial President, Tap Club

Favorite place in Claremont: Blaisdell Courtyard or Tables outside of ITS

Spring 2024 Hours: Monday 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Wednesday 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Thursday 1:00-5:00 p.m.