First-Generation Peer Mentors

Each Kessler Scholar at Bates is paired with a First-Generation Peer Mentor (FGPM), an upper-division student within the Bobcat First or Kessler Scholar Programs, who has been trained to provide outreach, mentorship, and programmatic support to first-generation students. Peer Mentors provide outreach, mentorship, and programmatic support to an assigned cohort of first-generation students within the Bobcat First and Kessler Scholars programs. Each Peer Mentor serves as a facilitator and mentor, providing a safe avenue for students to discuss the unique experience of first-generation students, and to provide resources to support their ongoing academic, social, and emotional wellness at Bates.

All peer mentors have a drop in hour every week where you can stop by and meet with them with no appointment! All drop in hours take place in the Office of Intercultural Education which is located in Chase Hall.


2023-24 First-Generation Peer Mentors

Roberto Castro

About Roberto

My name is Roberto Castro and I am a senior double majoring in Chinese and Politics. I am a Mexican American first generation college student from Chicago, Illinois. I have helped lead pre-orientation and collaborated with different offices on campus to connect other first generation students to any resources they need.

Class year: 2024
Drop In Hour: Mondays 1pm to 2pm


Rylee Eaton

About Rylee

I plan to double major in chemistry and math.  Some things I’m involved with here on campus is I am a member of the rowing team as well as part of the Res Life staff being the Milliken House Junior Advisor.  I’m a native Mainer, raised on a small island called Deer Isle about 3 hours north of Bates.  

Class year: 2025
Pronouns: she/her

Drop In Hour: Fridays 1pm to 2pm


Elizabeth Gallegos Rodriguez

About Elizabeth

Hi everyone! My name is Elizabeth (she/her) and I am a second-year student from Denver. Spanish is my first language and I am a proud daughter of Mexican parents. I love all things food, and if you ever need music recommendations I am your gal!

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: she/her

Drop In Hour: Wednesdays 4pm to 5pm


James Hillers

About James

Hi all, my name is James and I’m a rising sophomore planning to major in Biology with a minor in Digital and Computational Studies. Besides being a first-gen peer mentor, I am also co-president of MUN, vice-president of bio club, and an active member of club volleyball. Beyond that I love running, hiking, fashion, and spending time with friends.

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: he/him

Drop In Hour: Tuesdays 1pm to 2pm


Sydney Phan

About Sydney

Hello my name is Sydney Phan ’24 and I am a first-generation college student majoring in Sociology with concentrations in Africana and Rhetoric. I am from Zion, IL and am passionate about social justice and story-telling. One of my favorite things about Bates College is the variety of communities I find myself immersed in. One of those communities have stemmed from working in the Office of Intercultural Education. My role gives me the privilege to interact with other first-generation students as well as connecting them with the greater Bates community and all of the resources it has to offer.

Class year: 2024
Pronouns: she/her

Drop In Hour: Mondays 2pm to 3pm


Sheila Robledo

About Sheila

Hello! My name is Sheila, I am a first-generation student here at Bates. I plan to pursue a major in Biology and minor in Chinese language. Fun fact, I love music; you will always see me with at least one AirPod in my ear every time!

Class year: 2026
Pronouns: she/her

Drop In Hour: Wednesdays 2pm to 3pm