All of our Transfer Alliance Program (TAP) Peer Allies are UMass Lowell (UML) students who transferred from other colleges and universities. So they all know what it is like to navigate a new college environment. They have learned their way around and are eager to help new transfers get connected and find the resources that are helpful. When you opt to be assigned an ally, you gain a "go to" person you can rely on.
Fall 2026
Mariela Giraldo
Hi, all! My name is Mariela, though many people also call me Mari. I am a second-generation Honors College junior majoring in clinical psychology and minoring in Spanish. I transferred from UMass Amherst after my freshman year because I wanted to be surrounded by more like-minded people while also being closer to home. I enjoyed how UML is a campus with opportunities and internships closer to Boston, and also more resources nearby, all around UML. Besides TAP, I am also an executive board member of my a cappella group, The Hawkettes, as well as my very own club, which I founded this year, the UML Meditation Club! Additionally, I am a part of the Honors College, Psi Chi, the international psychology honors society, and the UML Breakdancing club! Outside of my college hobbies, I enjoy creating connections, shopping, hanging out with friends, playing games and watching TV/anime. The biggest piece of advice I can give to incoming transfer students is to trust the process. It may take a bit to adjust to a new college, as it did for me as well when I first transferred here; however, once you are settled, you will, in fact, be successful and make lifelong friends! Another piece of advice is to take advantage of your resources (Transfer Advisors, Tutoring Center, Career & Co-op Center and more). They help so much and have given me many tips to be successful!
Clinton Ngamne
Hello everyone! My name is Clinton, and I am a junior student majoring in Industrial Engineering here at UMass Lowell. I transferred here in the fall of 2025 from Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology and it's been a game-changer ever since. UMass Lowell has provided me with wonderful opportunities, from incredible faculty to programs like TAP and people who are eager to support transfer students throughout their academic journey. Outside the classroom, you can find me spending time with friends and exploring campus clubs and events. Having the support that TAP has to offer has made my journey much easier and reinforced my decision to be a part of the UMass Lowell community.
Leisha Fortunat
Hello! My name is Leisha Fortunat. I am a senior majoring in Public Health on the health and sciences pathway, minoring in Public Health Informatics and Technology (PHIT). I am eager to graduate spring of 2027. My favorite season is fall and I love going on nature walks. Personally fall is the best season of them all. I am a commuter. I love to smile and have a good laugh. I also have a Bible blog on different social media platforms. I believe good background music can help with being productive. I would advise you to meet with your professors during office hours at least once. Getting to know them can help you build professional connections! I love to be a helping hand, so don’t be shy to ask questions. Clarity goes a long way!!
Kaitlyn Reynolds
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn, and I’m a junior nutrition student at UML with a concentration in dietetics. I transferred here from Northern Essex Community College in the fall of 2025, where I completed my general education courses. Having those done allowed me to concentrate on my particular interest in the health sciences when I came to UML. I’ve enjoyed the classes I take as my major and have taken part in different opportunities as a student here, including TAP. This program gave me support as a new UML student, which I’m excited to keep spreading!
Joel Nsubuga
My name is Joel Nsubuga, and I'm a junior majoring in Mechanical Engineering. I transferred to UMass Lowell from Florida Atlantic University because I wanted to be in a stronger engineering program and be closer to home. Outside of school, I enjoy surfing, hiking, photography, longboarding, playing basketball, and spending time outdoors. My biggest tip for transfer students is to not be afraid to ask questions. Whether it's professors, advisors, or other students, people are usually willing to help.
Lexi Slezak
Hi! My name is Lexi and I am a junior here at UML! My major is psychology with a minor in creative writing. I transferred from Harrisburg Area Community College in Pennsylvania in spring of 2026. I love UML because of its welcoming community and the support of programs like TAP! I love all the different opportunities here, there really is a place for everyone. Outside of classes, I work at O’Leary library and serve as treasurer on the psychology club e-board.
Jasmine Ward
Hi, my name is Jasmine and I'm in my senior year in the computer science (CS) program at UML! I'm very passionate about making friends and finding time to relax throughout the semester. I love golf and football, and I spend as much time as I can outside, which can seem difficult in CS but it is completely doable! Even with a heavy course load, I always plan a night for group study and take small breaks to get to know more about what's going on in everyone else's day. The social aspect of the TAP program is my favorite part, because I think it's important to have fun while you're here. Getting to know my advisors and professors was a big part of my success, and I hope everyone in our program feels just as comfortable with the faculty here after joining!
Cynthia Muchohi
Hello everyone! My name is Cynthia Muchohi. I'm a junior computer science major concentrating in cybersecurity. I transferred to UMass Lowell Spring 2026 from Kenya and it's been a whole journey. I know transferring to a new university can feel exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. TAP has personally helped make that transition a little easier by answering questions and connecting me with the resources I need. Outside of school, I love going out with friends and family, meeting new people, and discovering new hobbies. My biggest tip is this: don't try and figure out everything on your own. If you're unsure about something chances are someone else is wondering the same thing. Whether it's a question about classes, campus resources, or adjusting to university life, reaching out can make all the difference.
Patricia Zihindula
Hello everyone, my name is Patricia. I am a senior first-generation Honors student majoring in Biology on a Pre-Med track. I love being part of the UML community because of all the support that the University provides to all its members and to the community. Besides being a Transfer Alliance Program Ally, I am also a Kennedy College of Sciences student ambassador, an honors College student, a biology tutor, and a member of the Pre-Med club. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, cooking, watching movies, and running. Through TAP, I am confident that all incoming transfer students can have the support and the community they need to make their transition to a new institution easy, smooth, enjoyable, and successful. We are here to help and grow together! Let’s Go River Hawks!