Meet the Graduate Sidekicks

Questions? Ask the Graduate Sidekicks!

*Sidekick (noun, informal): a close friend or assistant, who accompanies another on adventures. Some famous sidekicks include Robin (Batman's sidekick), Ron and Hermione (Harry Potter's sidekicks), Woodstock (Snoopy's sidekick) and Joe Biden (Barack Obama's sidekick).

Graduate Sidekicks are current international and American graduate students at Northwestern. Not too long ago, they were new graduate students themselves, so they understand what you are going through. They are here to help you, answer your questions, and accompany you as you begin your adventures at Northwestern!

Please note: The Sidekicks have been advised to focus on sharing their experiences. If you have admissions or financial aid questions, please contact your academic program. If you have immigration/visa questions, please contact your Advisor

Connect with the Graduate Sidekicks!

2021-22 Sidekicks

Jack Diloknawarit

Hi all! I'm Jack, a second-year grad student in the Materials Science PhD program. I consider Thailand and Japan as my home. I'm so absorbed in learning about different cultures from people around the world. I enjoy jogging along Lake Michigan, snowboarding, and trying local beers. I'm very excited to welcome you all to Northwestern this Fall.

Hengyang Li

Hi all, I'm Hengyang! I am one of the sidekicks at OISS to welcome you to the Northwestern University. My major is mechanical engineering. I love outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, climbing. Feel free to ask me if you have any concerns about the upcoming new life in NU! Welcome!

Nancy Rivera

Hello! My name is Nancy, and I'm a Biomedical Engineering PhD student from Mexico. Cooking and baking are two of my favorite hobbies, so coming to an area known for its food diversity has been awesome. Welcome to NU, where you can enjoy a culinary journey as well by trying the Chicago-style hot dog, some deep-dish pizza, or an Italian beef sandwich!

Aslan Selfi

Hi all, I'm Aslan! I'm a second year PhD student in the department of Physics. Most of my research revolves around the fundamental equations in Physics. In my spare time, I enjoy working out and outdoor activities. I cannot wait to meet you in person and learn more about different cultures and your experiences.

Sylvia Tan

Hi Everyone, I'm Sylvia, a mechanical engineering PhD student! I develop haptic technologies at the Center for Robotic and Biosystems, and I work at Norris to assist in running mini courses for the NU and outside community. I love making things with my hands (pottery, puzzles, plants, etc.) and exploring new food places! I’m excited for you to see our amazing lakeside campus and visit all the surrounding neighborhoods as well!

Akiko Tonooka

Hi, I’m Akiko! I am an LLM student at Pritzker School of Law. I am studying law since this January and before that I was working at a bank in Japan. I moved to Chicago last December and got to like Chicago very much, so I am hoping that you all feel the same way when you come to Chicago!