Peer Advisors

ABUBAKR NIMATOV

Major in Business Administration, BA-124

“Always look for opportunities and remain active in your university years because these years are the transformative years of your life"

Abubakr Nimatov is a junior majoring in Business Administration at AUCA. He plans to support students by providing reliable academic guidance and contributing to the Academic Advising Center’s initiatives. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to share the knowledge and experience he has gained, including through his work as a Writing and Academic Resources (WARC) tutor, and to make another meaningful contribution to the university.

ADEMI AKYLBEKOVA

Major in Business Administration, BA-123

“Everything is worth trying; do your best, and the rest will be given by God”

Ademi Akylbekova is a senior in the Business Administration department at AUCA. She is passionate about baking, although she does not eat sugar, and enjoys handiwork. She is also a beginner in running but has already completed two races and earned two medals. Ademi loves numbers, fall, lattes, and kittens. She appreciates the role of peer advisors in helping new students adapt to university life. Since it was difficult for her to become acquainted with the university, its offices, courses, and instructors during her freshman year, she wants to ensure that other students do not face the same challenges.

AIZHANA USENKUL

Major in Journalism and Mass Communication, JOUR-123

“Everyone fails at being who they are supposed to be. A measure of a person is how well they succeeded at being who they are”

Aizhana Usenkul is a senior in the Journalism and Mass Communication department at AUCA. She enjoys reading books, watching films from different genres, dancing, painting, and journaling, which help her express herself and remain creative. She would like to participate in student activities and help the Academic Advising Center organize workshops while contributing to a welcoming and supportive community. Having experienced how challenging and confusing the first year can be, Aizhana wants to share her knowledge and help new students feel welcomed, connected, and supported in both their academic and student lives.

AKBAR AITEMIROV

Major in International and Business Law, IBL-123

“Do something today that you’ll be grateful for tomorrow”

Akbar Aitemirov is a senior in the International and Business Law department. He enjoys working with students from diverse backgrounds and tries to create an academic environment where everyone can learn something new from one another. As a peer advisor, Akbar wants to support students with academic questions, share the knowledge and experience he has gained over the past few years, and be available whenever students need someone to talk to.

ALINA ABASOVA

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-123

“There could be no tomorrow, so live in today”

Alina Abasova is a senior of the Software Engineering department. She is good at mathematics and knows how to listen, which is why she works as a Writing and Academic Resources (WARC) tutor. Alina enjoys active sports such as hiking and biking, although she currently has little time for them. She also enjoys all types of games, including board, computer, and mobile games.

ALTYNAI OROZBAKOVA

Major in Television, Cinema and Media Arts, TCMA-123

“Hard work will never betray you”

Altynai Orozbakova is a senior in the Television, Cinema and Media Arts department at AUCA. She enjoys exploring different fields, trying new things, and finding creative approaches to challenges. She would like to participate in mentoring sessions, listen to students’ needs, and help them find suitable solutions to both academic and extracurricular questions. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is her desire to help others and use her own experience to make university life less overwhelming.

ALTYNAI SARYKOVA

Major in Economics, ECO-123

“Curiosity”

Altynai Sarykova is a senior in the Economics department at AUCA. She enjoys meeting new people and helping others make the most of university opportunities. During her exchange semester at National Sun Yat-sen University in Taiwan, she experienced a new culture and met students from many countries. She also participated in the Warwick University Online Language Exchange Program, which strengthened her intercultural communication skills. At the Advising Center, Altynai would like to share her exchange experience, help with events, support international and local students, and encourage more AUCA students to participate in exchange programs. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to build meaningful connections, expand her community, and help first-year students feel welcomed and supported. She believes curiosity helps her grow, explore new opportunities, and build a meaningful life.

ARLEN SEITALIEV

Major in Applied Mathematics and Informatics, AMI-123

“What do you think you know, and why do you think you know it?”

Arlen Seitaliev is a senior in the Applied Mathematics and Informatics department. He is an introvert and prefers chatting to spending time in unfamiliar company. He spends most of his time studying, playing video games, or reading manga and is generally interested in popular science topics. Arlen enjoys helping students navigate academic and personal challenges. When he was a first-year student, his own peer advisors supported and encouraged him and showed him how to adapt to university life. Becoming a peer advisor is his way of giving back and honoring the guidance he once received.

ATAI DZHIRGALBAEV

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-123

“Build things, help people, keep learning”

Atai Dzhirgalbaev is a senior in the Software Engineering department at AUCA. Alongside his studies, he works as a programming tutor at the Writing and Academic Resource Center (WARC) and develops software projects, giving him firsthand experience with both the challenges and enjoyable aspects of student life. His participation in cross-cultural programs and international events has shown him how much people can learn by connecting with those from different backgrounds. At the Advising Center, Atai would like to help students navigate their academic paths, organize peer-support sessions, and share practical advice about courses, workload, and balancing studies with personal projects. His tutoring and mentoring experience has taught him how valuable an approachable peer can be during a student’s first semesters.

DASTAN IBRAGIMOV

Major in Sociology, SOC-224

“It is never too late for asking, learning, and studying”

Dastan Ibragimov is a junior in the Sociology department at AUCA. He is a civil rights activist, human rights defender, and active student with a passion for research. He would like to support students with university-related questions, including course registration, and contribute to the Advising Center’s efforts to improve the student experience. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is his passion for mentoring and supporting young people.

DENIZ ABDULDABEKOVA

Major in Television, Cinema and Media Arts, TCMA-224

“Live a simple life in a complex world”

Deniz Abduldabekova is a senior in the Television, Cinema, and Media Arts department at AUCA. During a winter exchange program in Germany, she studied in a small town where the local students and Advising Center staff helped her adapt and answered her questions. This experience inspired Deniz to take on the same supportive role for other students. She would like to guide underclassmen, help organize events, and assist with any Advising Center activities where she can be useful. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to get to know new students and help them resolve misunderstandings and overcome challenges similar to those she experienced.

EMIR MARDONKULOV

Major in International and Business Law, IBL-125

“I know that I know nothing”

Emir Mardonkulov is a sophomore in the International and Business Law program at AUCA. He has always been open to new experiences, including performing on stage and participating in extracurricular activities. He sees peer advising as another opportunity to learn and is ready to take on any role in which he can benefit both students and the Academic Advising Center. Emir believes the world can become a kinder place when people help others whenever possible. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is his belief that having knowledge creates a responsibility to share it.

FARAH SARANJOMOVA

Major in Liberal Arts and Sciences - Human Rights, LAS-HR-125

“Anything that doesn’t kill you makes you stronger"

Farah Saranjomova is a sophomore in the Liberal Arts and Sciences program with a concentration in Human Rights. She is passionate about women’s rights and gender equality, interests that shaped her academic choices and involvement in policymaking activities. During her freshman year, she traveled to Geneva, Switzerland, where she engaged with United Nations mechanisms and visited the Palais des Nations, further strengthening her interest in international relations. Farah is open to participating in all Advising Center activities and is particularly interested in helping students resolve scheduling difficulties. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is that she enjoys communicating with people and helping them with academic questions. She believes that success often requires significant sacrifice.

IKBOL ALLAKHUNOV

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-123

“Under pressure, we sink to the level of our preparation"

Ikbol Allakhunov is a senior in the Software Engineering department. He is a motivated student who values learning, growth, and teamwork. He enjoys helping others succeed and believes in building a supportive academic community. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to support fellow students by sharing his experience and helping them navigate academic and personal challenges. Ikbol also wants to contribute to a welcoming and encouraging environment where everyone can feel confident.

IZAT RYSKULOV

Major in Business Administration, BA-125

“It is what it is”

Izat Ryskulov is a sophomore in the Business Administration department. He enjoys solving problems, developing new skills, studying entrepreneurship and business strategy, and collaborating with people from different backgrounds. Through the Advising Center, he would like to contribute to student events, mentor fellow students, and help create an engaging and welcoming community. He is also interested in leadership, professional development, and international opportunities. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help students adapt to their new surroundings.

KAMILLA MURKHAMBETOVA

Major in International and Business Law, IBL-125

“Leave every place better than you found it”

Kamilla Murkhambetova is a sophomore in the International and Business Law program at AUCA. She believes that accessible opportunities can change lives and is passionate about helping young people pursue their goals regardless of their backgrounds. Through volunteering, student mentoring, and community projects, she has seen how education and support can create a lasting impact. She would like to contribute to Advising Center activities by mentoring students, organizing events, sharing her exchange experience, and encouraging others to pursue the opportunities available at AUCA. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is that guidance from others helped her discover opportunities she might otherwise have missed, and she now wants to provide the same support to other students.

KHADIJA YOUSUFZAI

Major in International and Comparative Politics, ICP-123

“Learn with purpose, lead with kindness, and leave every place better than you found it”

Khadija Yousufzai is a senior majoring in International and Comparative Politics and minoring in International and Business Law. Her experience as a Writing Tutor, Teaching Assistant, student leader, and participant in community projects such as the GHEA21 Global Engagement Fellows program and the C5+1 Youth Council has strengthened her communication, leadership, and mentoring skills. At the Advising Center, she would like to help new students adjust to university life, share her experiences, and organize workshops and community events. Having moved to a new country and adapted to a different academic environment, Khadija understands the importance of having someone who listens, encourages, and provides guidance. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help students build confidence, become active members of the AUCA community, and make the most of their university experience.

KIBRIYO AZIZULLOEVA

Major in Environmental Sustainability and Climate Science, ESCS-124

“The quietest minds produce the loudest thoughts”

Kibriyo Azizulloeva is a junior majoring in the Environmental Sustainability and Climate Science program at AUCA. She is an energetic, creative, and friendly student majoring in Environmental Sustainability and Climate Science with a minor in Anthropology and Sustainable Development. She enjoys staying active on campus and connecting with diverse student groups. At the Advising Center, she would like to help students navigate course registration and overcome academic challenges. Having moved from Tajikistan and struggled to adapt to university life, Kibriyo remembers how much support from older students helped her. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to provide the same sense of hope and support to new students so they never feel alone when facing academic or personal difficulties.

LILIIA LULAKOVA

Major in Economics, ECO-124

“If it is hard, you should definitely do it”

Liliia Lulakova is a junior in the Economics department at AUCA. She is involved in civic engagement and volunteering and is the founder of FoRS Youth Club, an educational initiative that provides academic guidance and support to young people from Kyrgyzstan’s regions. She also works as an Economics tutor at Writing and Academic Resource (WARC). Liliia plans to create a student club in collaboration with the Civic Engagement Office, Career Development Office, and Academic Advising Office, where students can develop civic engagement projects for the Get Engaged Conference. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help other students take advantage of as many opportunities as possible.

MARGARITA LULAKOVA

Major in International and Comparative Politics, ICP-124

“Don’t cry because it’s gone. Smile because it was”

Margarita Lulakova is a junior in the International and Comparative Politics program at AUCA. She wanted to be connected with the Academic Advising Office from the beginning of her studies because she sees it as a valuable source of knowledge and support. During her sophomore year, she maintained a 4.0 GPA while participating in student theater, volunteering, virtual exchange programs, Youth Peace Dialogue 2025, and MUN Kazakhstan. She also worked as a WARC tutor and studied abroad at Philipps University of Marburg in Germany. Margarita would like to help new students manage their time, develop effective learning methods, discover university resources, and prepare applications for exchange semesters. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help students feel confident and safe and to encourage those who may find university life stressful or difficult.

NAGIMA ARAPOVA

Major in International and Business Law, IBL-124

“Just be the best version of yourself. You don’t need to try to be anyone else"

Nagima Arapova is a junior majoring in the International and Business Law department. She has a wide range of interests, from lectures and volunteering to reading, traveling, exploring fashion, and enjoying cozy moments with her loved ones. She is drawn to new and unusual experiences and tries to find inspiration and small adventures every day. Nagima knows firsthand how meaningful it is to receive guidance and support when it is needed most. Helping others gives her joy and allows her to connect with people. As a peer advisor, she would like to be actively involved in the activities of the Academic Advising Center.

NAZBIKE TURGUNALIEVA

Major in Journalism and Mass Communication, JMC-124

“I’d rather die than live without passion”

Nazbike Turgunalieva is a junior majoring in the Journalism and Mass Communication department. She is sociable, active, and positive, and enjoys participating in university life and contributing to its development. She considers joining the Academic Advising Center for the 2026-2027 academic year both an honor and a responsibility that will open new opportunities. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is that she enjoys guiding people and helping them resolve different issues, and she strongly connects with the Academic Advising Center’s mission.

NOZANIN ABDULLOEVA

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-124

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”

Nozanin Abdulloeva is a junior in the Software Engineering department who enjoys taking long walks, drawing, and discovering new places, people, and perspectives. As a peer advisor, she would like to provide students with reliable information and strong personal support. She hopes to help students build schedules, prepare for exams, manage academic stress, and adapt to university life through initiatives such as the Art Therapy Club. Nozanin’s main reason for becoming a peer advisor is her belief that support should be reciprocal: upperclassmen helped her when she was a freshman, and she now wants to offer the same guidance and encouragement to others.

NURAIYM ASANOVA

Major in Environmental Sustainability and Climate Science, ESCS-124

“You can not be good at everything, but that does not mean you can not do anything”

Nuraiym Asanova is a junior in the Environmental Sustainability and Climate Science department. She is a reflective and curious person who connects nature, education, and ideas. She enjoys challenging herself through writing essays, learning, and running. Nuraiym loves sharing her experiences and finds joy in helping people grow and feel more confident. As a peer advisor, she would like to help other students discover opportunities to grow, develop, and learn while continuing to develop her own skills and contribute to the student community.

RUHSANEM BAKIEVA

Major in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Social Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking, LAS-SE-123

“Everything is possible. The impossible just takes longer”

Ruhsanem Bakieva is a senior majoring in Liberal Arts and Sciences, with a concentration in Social Entrepreneurship, and pursuing a second major in Business Administration. She is a highly creative student with a strong interest in learning, literature, music, and artistic expression and is deeply motivated by educating others and helping people discover new perspectives. Ruhsanem is a winner of the Republican Olympiad in Russian Language, a Gold Certificate recipient, and a Dean’s List awardee. Her academic performance also led to her participation in an international exchange program at Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson. With three years of tutoring experience and two years of experience as a peer advisor, she has developed a strong ability to understand students’ challenges and provide effective, supportive solutions.

SAADAT SHARSHEMBIEVA

Major in Economics, ECO-125

“Be the change you wish to see”

Saadat Sharshembieva is a rising sophomore majoring in Economics who is interested in the social sciences and enjoys reading, drawing, and spending time with friends and family. As a peer advisor, she would like to help freshmen with course registration, participate in workshops, and make the AUCA experience more welcoming and accessible. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to give back to the university and contribute to students’ development as they transition to university life.

SANA SADAT

Major in Anthropology and International Development, ANTH-124

“Keep learning, stay positive, and do your best”

Sana Sadat is a junior in the Anthropology and International Development program at AUCA. She enjoys meeting new people, participating in campus life, and creating a friendly environment where everyone feels welcome. At the Academic Advising Center, she would like to support students who need guidance or information while developing her communication skills and gaining new experience. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help students feel comfortable and supported, share what she has learned, and contribute to a welcoming campus community. She believes small, consistent efforts lead to growth and success.

SATI KENCHIBAEVA

Major in Liberal Arts and Sciences: European Studies, LAS-ES-123

“Every little thing is gonna be alright”

Sati Kenchibaeva is a senior in the Liberal Arts and Sciences department, majoring in European Studies. She spent a semester studying in Germany, which helped her better understand how to adapt to new academic systems and cultural environments. Sati enjoys volunteering and supporting others, especially students who are just beginning their university journey. Having experienced the challenges of her first semesters, she wants to help freshmen feel confident, informed, and supported. As a peer advisor, Sati aims to share her experience, guide students through academic questions, and help them feel more comfortable and connected to AUCA.

SAVLET NISHANBEK KYZY

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-123

“It is better to do and regret than not to do and regret”

Savlet Nishanbek kyzy is a senior in the Software Engineering department. She enjoys taking pictures, playing musical instruments, doing social work, and staying active. During her first year, she was inspired by how peer advisors supported students, which motivated her to become one herself. As a peer advisor, Savlet wants to focus on direct communication and assist students with questions about double majors, minors, and transfers.

SHARAFAT YERLANKYZY

Major in Software Engineering, SFW-124

“The real value is found in the journey, not just in reaching the destination”

Sharafat Yerlankyzy is a junior in the Software Engineering program at AUCA. She enjoys trying new things and participating in different activities. She would like to contribute to the Academic Advising Center by helping with advising sessions, supporting event organization, and sharing her experience with first-year students. She also plans to participate in the Central European University Summer School and the TFAS Prague program. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help new students feel welcomed and supported and make their transition to university easier.

TIMUR SATARKULOV

Major in Sociology, SOC-124

“With great power comes great responsibility”

Timur Satarkulov is a junior in the Sociology department. He enjoys planning and solving organizational challenges. At the Academic Advising Center, he wants to make student course registration and adaptations to university life easier and smoother. His interest in the Resident Evil game series has taught him to remain calm, manage resources efficiently, and plan his next steps under pressure, skills he hopes to use when providing clear, step-by-step guidance. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to reduce the stress caused by university life and registration by being approachable and providing clarity.

VALERIYA PAN

Major in Applied Mathematics and Informatics, AMI-123

“Every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward.” - Thomas Edison

Valeriya Pan is a senior in the Applied Mathematics and Informatics department. She enjoys studying in groups with her friends and supporting others in their academic journeys. Beyond her studies, she likes listening to music, drawing, and exploring new places. As a peer advisor, Valeriya believes students thrive when they feel supported and understood. Sharing her experiences and helping others navigate academic and personal challenges motivates her to contribute to the community. She also enjoys meeting people from different backgrounds.

VASILII CHEVELEV

Major in Anthropology and International Development, ANTH-124

“Fast is slow, but regular”

Vasilii Chevelev is a junior in the Anthropology and International Development department. He has been actively involved in extracurricular activities since his first year of study and enjoys helping peers navigate academic life. At the Academic Advising Center, he would like to provide consultations and organize events focused on academic success. He plans to participate in an exchange program at the University of Hong Kong during the spring semester of the 2026-2027 academic year. His main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to help other students make their academic lives as efficient as possible.

YASMINA OROZALIEVA

Major in Psychology, PSY-125

“Stay human, see the beauty, and never stop feeling”

Yasmina Orozalieva is a sophomore Psychology student with a strong interest in the human mind and behavior who hopes to become a clinical psychologist. At the Academic Advising Center, she would like to help students with course selection and registration and mentor incoming students and those experiencing academic difficulties. Yasmina knows from personal experience how lonely the beginning of university can feel and how meaningful it is to receive support from another student who understands. Her main reason for becoming a peer advisor is to be that supportive person for incoming students and help them navigate their studies with confidence.

ZAHRA RAJABI

Major in Liberal Arts and Sciences: Social Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking, LAS-SE-123

“I trust that everything works out, and what is meant for me comes to me”

Zahra Rajabi is a fourth-year university student who has served as a peer advisor since 2024. Her experience as an English instructor has helped her communicate effectively with students, and she enjoys listening to them and understanding their needs. Zahra would like to support Advising Center activities, organize events, and share useful information with students. Since she has a part-time job, she is available to help in the afternoons. Her main reason for being a peer advisor is to help students understand the university’s policies.