gyorffy.zsuzsanna[at]med.semmelweis-univ.hu
stauder.adrienne[at]semmelweis.hu CV: https://semmelweis.hu/magtud/en/institute/staff/dr-adrienne-stauder/ As a medical communication teacher and a counsellor at the Student Psychological Counselling Service of the Semmelweis University, I gained insight into the various challenges that international students face upon their arrival and over their study period at Semmelweis University. Over the years I often thought that many of the problems which bring students to counselling could have been prevented if these students had got a better guidance from the very start of their stay in Budapest. Also many problems related to (the lack of) social relationships and extra-curricular activities could be better solved via peer support. Therefore I am very pleased that the student mentoring program has started this year for the international students, I am committed to support the mentors and the mentees to connect and to enrich each others student life experiences. I also want to “pay back” the help and support that I have got myself during my studies in other countries.
victoria.azarova@stud.semmelweis.hu
Hello! My name is Victoria Azarov, and I’m a fifth-year medical student at Semmelweis. I came into medicine later in life while raising four kids, following a long-held dream, so I understand that starting something new—especially in a different country—can come with both excitement and uncertainty.
I’ve been part of the International Mentoring Program as a mentor, and this year I’m excited to join the team as a board member. My goal is to help mentors feel supported in their roles and to make sure that mentees get the warm welcome and practical guidance they need to thrive here at Semmelweis.
Outside of my studies, I’m involved in medical research, and I created Semmelweis STEMtalk, a podcast that highlights women’s inspiring journeys in science and medicine. I enjoy working on projects that connect people and foster a sense of community—something I hope to continue through this program.
If you’re new to Semmelweis or stepping into your mentoring role, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to help you settle in, find your rhythm, and make the most of the opportunities ahead.
saniazoorbakhsh@gmail.com
Hello everyone!
My name is Sania Zoorbakhsh, and I am a 5th-year medical student at Semmelweis University. I was a mentor in this program for two years before becoming a board member. Although I’ve always been passionate about medicine, my journey as a medical student and international immigrant has come with challenges that have helped me truly appreciate the value of communication, mentorship, support networks, and the connections we build along the way. As a board member, my main responsibilities include managing mentor and mentee applications, overseeing the matching process, organizing workshops and supervision sessions, and preparing and evaluating logbooks at the end of each semester to track progress and gather feedback
for improving the program.
Since my second year, I’ve also worked as a teaching assistant, tutor, and student researcher in various departments.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out—whether you have questions, need support, or just feel like socializing!
ekshwanku.mehmi[at]stud.semmelweis.hu
Hii! I am Ekshwanku Mehmi, a board member of the Semmelweis International Mentoring Program, serving as the Media and Digital Platforms Lead. My role involves managing our social media presence, keeping the website up to date, designing visuals, and ensuring that everything we share reflects the vibrant and supportive spirit of our community.
I enjoy working on the creative and technical side of things, whether that means taking photos at events, putting together posts, or helping keep our online spaces organized and informative. It is a great way to stay connected and contribute to a program that helps make the transition into university life a little smoother for everyone.
If you ever want to collaborate, share ideas, or just say hi, do not hesitate to reach out.
Looking forward to working together and building a strong community.
666yoannacohen@gmail.com
ririka.tamura@stud.semmelweis.hu
My name is Ririka Tamura, and I’m a fifth-year medical student at Semmelweis University. I’ve been part of the Mentoring Program for two years and have had the pleasure of mentoring many talented and dedicated students.
Being a mentor has taught me how to navigate challenges and has helped me develop interpersonal skills that are essential for any doctor.
As a TA, I hope to assist the board members in facilitating communication and information between mentors and mentees. We aim to ease the scary transition mentees face as they begin their journey at Semmelweis. For mentors, I hope to provide support in overcoming uncertainties and building connections with their mentees.
Whether you’re a mentor or a mentee, please feel free to reach out to our team!
yashika.malik03@gmail.com