Mentor Profiles

Animal Science

Kylee Gengler

A woman in a brown long-sleeve shirt and jeans stands indoors, smiling. There is a decorated Christmas tree and a cowhide rug in the background. Hello, I am Kylee Gengler and I am an Animal Science/ Pre-Vet Major. I am from Florence, MO and found a love for working with animals through my neighbors ranch. Some of my hobbies include drawing, going to concerts, and fishing.

Accounting

Braedyn Hausmann

Hi! My name is Braedyn Hausmann and I'm a graduate student in Accounting. I'm originally from Belleville, IL and became interested in accounting when I started taking courses here at Missouri State. Some hobbies I really enjoy are sports, hiking, and cooking new recipes. I graduate with my Masters in Accounting this May and I'm excited for the future!

Katie Roth

The image shows a person with long, wavy brown hair and wearing glasses. They are in a car, seated next to a window. The person is dressed in a white, patterned top. The interior of the car includes a visible seatbelt and dark-colored seats. Light enters through the window, illuminating the person's face. I am an accounting major with an interest fraud examination. I strive for knowledge and hope to achieve CPA licensing after school. I’m from Perryville, Missouri which is in the South-East part of Missouri near Cape Girardeau. I love spending time with my friends, watching horror movies, reading, and playing video games (I’ve been on my annual minecraft kick recently). The library, specifically the Bear CLAW, is my favorite place on campus because it gives me a chance to get work done in an environment that encourages learning. Off campus my favorite place will always be Potter’s House because their coffee will always be my favorite in Springfield.

Maddie Hoffmeyer

The image features a person with long blonde hair, smiling and looking at the camera. The individual is wearing a bright pink dress with puffed sleeves and a shirred bodice. They have pearl earrings and a delicate necklace. The background is plain white, ensuring the person is the main focus of the image. Maddie is a senior Accounting major with a minor in the Legal Studies of Business. She is originally from St.Louis, MO. Aside from being a PASS Leader, Maddie is also a University Ambassador, Accountability Director for Alpha Sigma Alpha, and works at the Welcome Center on campus.

Varsha Talari

Varsha Talari Photo Hello, my name is Varsha Talari, and I am a senior majoring in Data Analytics at Missouri State University, set to graduate in Spring 2025. I transferred to Missouri State in 2022 from India, where my interest in Data Analytics was sparked during a Business Analytics course at my previous university. This experience ignited my curiosity about data and working with tools like Excel and other software applications. In addition to this job, I work as a Building Manager at the Plaster Student Union, where I hone my leadership and organizational skills. During my free time, I enjoy watching TV shows, reading books, and baking.

Yi Tang

The image depicts a person with long dark hair wearing a light-colored shirt. The person is looking toward the camera with a neutral expression. In the background, there is a tree with lush green leaves. Part of a bench and a structure with a green and white rectangular panel are also visible. The sky appears clear and is a light blue color, indicating daylight. I’m a senior majoring in accounting at Missouri State University, originally from China and immigrated to the U.S. in 2012. I’ve always been interested in accounting and the way businesses operate, which led me to pursue a career in this field. I’m actively involved in the Beta Alpha Psi honor society and the Accounting Club, where I’m building both leadership and networking skills. Outside of my studies, I volunteer with the IRS VITA program, assisting individuals with tax preparation. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, baking, working out, and exploring new places.

Biology

Karsen Cook

Man smiling into camera wearing suit with brown hair. Hello! I'm a junior, pre-medical student majoring in biology. I'm also a veteran/non-traditional student, and I'm always happy to help other veterans and non-traditional students. Science is very interesting and exciting to me, so I'm passionate to help others learn and share what I know. Outside of school, you'll find me enjoying Missouri's wildlife, and spending time with my lovely wife!

Leo Carpenter

Hi! I’m Leo and I’m the PASS Mentor for Evolution! I’m majoring in Environmental and Evolutionary Biology and will be graduating this year. I also work in Dr. Russell’s lab, studying bee behavior and ecology. At home you can find me painting, reading, playing video games or cuddling with my cats!

Biomedical Science

Emma Lister

Woman with curly brown hair wearing a MSU bear crewneck looking smiles at camera with a library in background. Hello, I am Kylee Gengler and I am an Animal Science/ Pre-Vet Major. I am from Florence, MO and found a love for working with animals through my neighbors ranch. Some of my hobbies include drawing, going to concerts, and fishing.

Heather Vlietstra

Woman in red shirt smiles into camera. Hello! I am Heather Vlietstra. I am an Exercise Science major with a Biomedical Science minor. After graduating in May, I plan to attend the Occupational Therapy program at MSU. I have always been interested in how the body works and now I love that I am able to help people with that knowledge. I love music, and I play the piano and ukulele along with a few other things. Thanks for reading!

Kennedy Jones

The image shows a person with long blonde hair, smiling and holding a small, fluffy dog. The person is wearing a dark sweatshirt with large white letters. The dog has a brown and tan coat and is being held in an upright position. The background features a bright, sunny day with clear blue skies and bare trees. I'm Kennedy and I'm a Junior here at MSU! I'm from Southwest Iowa, but I came to school here for the Nursing Program! I am now in my J2 semester of the Nursing Program which just means Junior Semester 2 so I am in the second out of 4 semesters of Nursing School. I have always loved science and knew I wanted to do something in health care when I got older and I am very excited to get my BSN! I love taking care of people and being there for them when they are at their lowest and I know nursing is the perfect field to be the glimmer of light that people need. Even though I love people and talking to people, I also love animals (mostly dogs though)! When I am home I love to see my dog and be outdoors taking her on walks! I'm very passionate about staying healthy and active as well!

Kaylee Williams

The image shows a person standing in a grassy field under a clear blue sky, captured from a three-quarter angle facing left. They're wearing a long-sleeved, teal sweater and light-colored pants. Their long hair is loose and gently blown by the wind. A line of trees is visible in the distant background. My name is Kaylee Williams, and I am majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology here at Missouri State University! I am originally from Sparta, MO which is only around 30 minutes from the Springfield area! I hope to pursue a professional career in Genetic Research and help to find treatments for incurable medical diseases. When I am not working on homework, I teach dance classes at Parker Dance Collective here in Ozark, MO! I have been dancing since I was 4 years old and have always had a passion for it! I love to have fun, meet new people, and go on walks in my free time! I have two wonderful and supportive parents at home along with my two younger brothers! Being at Missouri State has allowed me to branch out of my comfort zone and be given opportunities I wouldn’t have anywhere else, and I am so thankful to be a true MSU Bear!

Leah Kolb

Hi everyone! My name is Leah Kolb, and I am from Jefferson City, MO! I am a second-year junior on the pre-PA route majoring in Biomedical Sciences. I am so excited to be a Course Mentor for Anatomy because it has seriously been my favorite class I have taken so far! Outside of school I love exercising, hanging out with my friends, and volunteering! I will be holding study sessions on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6-7pm in O'Reilly Room 110. I will also have office hours from 12:30-2:30pm on Wednesdays. If neither of those times work for you, feel free to email me at lk79s@missouristate.edu to set up another time or to ask me questions. I can't wait to see you there:)

Lauren Robinson

No profile available.

Megan Mengwasser

Person with curly hair leaning against a tree trunk, smiling in an outdoor setting. Hello! My name is Megan Mengwasser, and I am currently a Junior at Missouri State University in Springfield, majoring in Biomedical Sciences with a focus on Human Health Sciences. I am also a proud Dean’s List recipient. At Missouri State, I am deeply committed to learning from a wide range of experiences. My academic journey is driven by a passion for studying human biology as it applies to medicine, cell biology of cancer, and more. I currently serve as the PASS Leader for BMS 307: Human Anatomy, and as a Student Success Mentor for the Bears Mentoring Bears program at Missouri State University. In the medical field, I am drawn to the research side, intending to work in oncology research. I earned my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services in 2023. Since 2022, I have been trained in basic life support, dementia, and Alzheimer’s care, and I have maintained CPR certification since 2018. Additionally, I hold certificates in Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Responsible Conduct of Research.

Chemistry

Anna Bessie

Anna Bessie Photo Hi everyone! I'm Anna and I am a junior at MSU. I'm from Wentzville, MO which is pretty close to St. Louis. I'm majoring in cell and molecular biology with a focus in pharmacy. I love science and working with patients. My hobbies are reading, hiking, and watching action movies.

Abigail Teitelbaum

No profile available.

Ezoza Hikmatillaeva

A young woman in a denim top standing on a city street at sunset with tall buildings in the background. Hi, I’m Ezoza! I’m majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology with a minor in Chemistry, and I’m on the pre-med track. I’m really passionate about science and medicine, and I dream of becoming a doctor one day. Chemistry has always been one of my favorite subjects, so being a course mentor for it is something I’m super excited about—it’s great to help others while diving deeper into a subject I love. I enjoy learning how science connects to real-life problems, especially when it comes to helping people and improving lives.

Joshua Gill

No profile available.

Katie McAnally

Heyo:) I’m Katie and this is my second semester as a PASS mentor for Essentials of Organic Chem. I’m studying Environmental and Evolutionary Biology. On campus I’m involved in The Wildlife Society and help Dr. Wait in the greenhouse. I’m a big fan of looking at plants, getting outdoors, and going to concerts!

Mirabella Redman

The image shows a woman with long, wavy brown hair smiling at the camera. She is wearing a dark jacket with the logo "Arizona State" visible on the front. The background is a plain, light gray color, giving a neutral backdrop that highlights the subject. Hello! My name is Mirabella Redman. I am a Sophomore majoring in Cell and Molecular Biology with a minor in General Business. I plan to attend medical school and become a Dermatologist one day. I am pursing a business minor to help in my journey to owning my own practice one day. I am a member of the track and field team at MSU, Pre-Medical Society, and the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. I enjoy watching movies and visiting my family when I can in Northwest Missouri. I enjoyed CHM 160 so much I wanted to help other students succeed in the class so I became a PASS Leader!

Dietetics and Nutrition

Amy Henning

The image shows a person sitting outside, holding a black and white dog in their arms. The person is seated on a brick patio, with a wooden deck to the left and lush green foliage in the background. They are smiling and wearing a red top. The dog has a white coat with black spots and patches, and its ears are alert. Sunlight casts natural shadows. Hello! My name is Amy Henning and I am an international student from South Africa. I am a senior majoring in Nutrition and Dietetics. I have a passion for healthy food and sharing my knowledge with others. My future plans is to stay in the US for another 2-3 years and then go back to South Africa and work as a Clinical Dietetian. When I am not studying or playing tennis, I am cooking/ baking, running and spending time with my family and friends. I have always enjoyed studying and I am excited to get to know new students and help them succeed!

Isabella Humm

My name is Isabella Humm, and I am a junior studying nutrition and dietetics. I have a passion for healthy eating and yummy food, and would like to share this passion with others as a registered dietitian. My dream is to teach others how to combine intuitive eating with holistic health, and promote natural ways to keep our bodies performing at their best. I'm from a small town outside of Chicago called Maple Park, where my job on a produce farm has amplified my love for healthy food, and given me interests in gardening and sustainable agriculture. My hobbies include reading, shopping, crocheting, drinking coffee, cooking and baking, spending time with loved ones, and staying active outdoors! Sleeping is pretty great too. I have always loved school, and I am very grateful for this opportunity to share that love with other students and help them succeed!

Parker Buzbee

Woman is sitting on a ledge at dusk with mountains in the background. Hello! My name is Parker Buzbee and I was born and raised in Springfield Missouri. I am in my last semester of college in the dietetics program here at Missouri State. My next goals are to get excepted into KU meds dietetic internship and masters program where I will explore the many different areas of dietetics to hopefully find my area of interest! When I'm not doing school or work, I enjoy baking, running, pickleball, and spending quality time with my friends and family. I cant wait to improve my leadership skills and help my fellow classmates build independent learning skills in their human metabolism course!

Tori Emery

Tori Emery Photo Hello! I am Tori Emery and I am a junior in the nutrition and dietetics program! Growing up I was always so fascinated about how our bodies work and how food plays a role in everything that we do! It was not until my younger brother got diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 10 years ago, I knew that I wanted to be a voice for those who do not have a voice! Being a dietitian is my calling! When I am not studying you can find me working out, cooking, hiking, serving at my church, and being with my family! Also, if you are ever at HyVee on West Battlefield here in Springfield please stop by the dietitians office and say hi, I work as the Dietetic Assistant/Intern!

Mathmatics

Ocean Hull

Woman with light brown hair smiles into camera. Hello! My name is Ocean Hull and I am a Finance/Financial Planning major with a minor in Dance. I am from Willard, MO. I teach dance at both a recreational and competitive level. Before, I danced recreationally for 10 years and competitively for 9. I also sang chorally for 8 years, earning multiple silver and gold state recognitions. Overall, I have always been a fan of the arts! In response to frequently asked questions regarding my hometown: 1) no, I do not know Chappell Roan personally, 2) yes, I do know her brother, 3) I don't know him well. Lastly, I am studying Finance because of a deep appreciation I have for math (which I course mentor). I have always enjoyed the way math looks when it is complete, and I have always been good with word problems. I have also always liked word problems. That might make me weird, but I have accepted it. Random Fun Facts: Favorite Artists: Pitbull and Justin Timberlake, Favorite Food: Tacos, Favorite Place: Fort Myers, FL, Favorite Classic Rock Band: Def Leppard, Favorite Color: Yellow, unless you're getting me something, then it's pink.

Sophie Stefka

The image depicts a person with long brown hair, positioned against a gradient background that is darker at the edges and lighter towards the center, creating a halo effect. The person is wearing a dark sweater featuring a geometric pattern with subtle red and gray tones. They have a neutral expression and are wearing a necklace with a small pendant. I am Sophie Stefka, a senior pursuing a BS in Computer Animation. I am from Springfield, and have enjoyed MSU for many years. I came to be interested in art from a very young age, and sought to combine that with new innovations in technology like content sharing and interactive media. I have been inspired by independent animators who are now able to share personal projects worldwide. I would love to design/ develop video games in the future, so I am gaining experience by creating one with a team of other Electronic Arts majors. In my free time I enjoy playing video games (namely Team Fortress 2) and am inspired by the techniques employed to make them work. I also enjoy working with physical 3D mediums like ceramics/ pottery. Of course, I also enjoy helping others achieve a better understanding of academic concepts. I hope to see you at a session!

Occupational Therapy

Allison Rosentreter

The image depicts a person with long, wavy blonde hair, smiling at the camera. They are wearing a light blue, textured top with ruffled sleeves. The background is a plain, light-colored wall, which provides a neutral backdrop to the subject. I am getting my masters degree in Occupational Therapy. I am personally so excited to work and help in the field of pediatrics.

Emily Edmondson

The image shows a person with long, straight hair standing against a plain, light-colored background. The person is wearing a black, short-sleeved shirt and is smiling directly at the camera. The hair is parted in the middle and falls down over the shoulders. The lighting is even, highlighting the person's facial features and giving the image a soft, natural appearance. My name is Emily Edmondson, and I am a student in the Master of Occupational Therapy program here at Missouri State University. I am from here in Springfield, Missouri. I am very passionate about the field of occupational therapy because I love to help others engage in daily tasks that bring meaning to their life. Outside of attending classes and working on assignments, I enjoy painting, coloring, reading, watching television, and spending time with friends and family.