Team Muses

About Muses

The Muses, in Greek mythology, are a group of nine goddesses who inspire and preside over various forms of arts, literature, and sciences. They are known for their creativity, knowledge, and guidance, serving as a source of inspiration for mortals.

The O-Week Peer Academic Advisors (PAAs) channel the Muses through their role as guides and mentors in academic planning sessions. Just like how Muses who inspire and guide artists, the PAAs inspire and guide students, offering valuable insights and expertise to help them navigate their educational paths and unlock their full potential.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Fatima

  Fatima is a senior from Longview, Texas majoring in Chemistry and minoring in Spanish and Portuguese, making her an academic weapon sharper than any other. When she’s not studying, she can be found wandering Target looking for emotional support squishmallows. Her other latest obsession is Crumbl cookies and she will drive however long is necessary to acquire them. She funds these addictions by hustling at the Welcome Center and the chemistry stockroom. How she manages to balance everything is a mystery to everyone. Above all else, she is a dedicated friend who values kindness and empathy, and always seeks to support those around her. You’re so lucky to have her as your PAA!

  (Shreya Majeti, Jones '24)

• Brad

  SIDIZENS get hyped!!!! Hailing from Augusta, Georgia, Robert Bradeford Joiner jr., aka THE BRAD, aka Bobby Joiner, aka Sir Joiner is one of y’all’s O-week PAAs. This southern peach is a delight to be around, whether you need someone to listen to your rant or a running buddy Brad is your guy - just be careful, he might make you run a half marathon on a whim. Brad is one of few Linguistics, Classics double-majors at Rice, so if you have a niche interest or just need some great academic advising, Brad would be more than happy to help!……Talking about help. If you’re new to Texas and need help discovering the wonders of Country music, Brad will without a doubt broaden your horizons with some fiyaaa🔥🔥 Zach Bryan. Although many have attempted to resist, Brad’s southern charm has converted everyone he knows into country fans. SIDIZENS, you really have lucked out with Brad!

  (Nahom Zerai, Sid Richardson '26)

• Anna

  Congratulations—with Anna Tetreault as your PAA, you will undoubtedly be the most academically advised student on campus!! Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri (respect the arch), Anna is an adventurous and passionate junior majoring in Computer Science and pursuing a certificate in Spanish. When she’s not in the basement of a lecture hall finishing her 23402th assignment to build the Internet (real), Anna enjoys taking spontaneous bike trips, scheming with her friends, and slaying as the Music Director of Rice’s Mariachi Band! If you get the chance, make sure to talk with Anna about the movie Spirit, her pets, or the New York Times Mini Crossword (her scores are superhuman I fear). As someone with countless academic interests and passions, Anna will make sure to keep you on track while giving you space to explore your interests; with Anna, you’re in great hands!

  (Grace Wang, Sid Richardson ‘25)

• Indrani

  Drainer Alert! Get your cameras ready, because Indrani Maitra (Sid ‘26) is Sid’s premiere niche internet micro celebrity. She’ll even sign your shoe if you ask nicely! Hailing from our very own Houston, TX, Indrani is on a first-name basis with all of the Subway workers in a 5-mile radius. Talk about influence! Enter her dorm room and you’ll think you’ve wandered into the prototypal incel living space— the Radiohead vinyls, David Lynch regalia and general acrimony towards the concept of cleanliness will give you whiplash. Still, she is incredibly passionate about academic advising—she’d love to tell you all about how she escaped the wretched Pre-Med track and entered the far more persecuted demographic of “civil engineering student”. For someone so short and child-like, she’s surprisingly wise. But, she manages to balance her maturity with an outrageous sense of humor. Indrani is an amazing, albeit chaotic, friend to anyone lucky enough to cross paths with her.

  (Mia Bauman, Hanszen ‘26 + James Foxworth, Sid Richardson ‘26)

Team Aphrodite

About Aphrodite

The Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite represents grace, charm, and the power of attraction. Campers aligned with Aphrodite have an innate ability to bring people together, exude a captivating aura, and possess a deep appreciation for art, romance, and the pursuit of beauty.

The enchanting allure of Team Aphrodite fills Sid with love, beauty, and harmony. They foster an inclusive and accepting environment, celebrating the uniqueness of each individual. Through acts of kindness, empathy, and support, they create a safe space where all Sidizens can express themselves and cultivate meaningful relationships.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Ananya

  Every Friday afternoon around 6:30 pm, if you walk up the stairs at the rec, you will find Ananya in power yoga, probably doing a headstand. Standing at a *towering* 5 ft 1 and ¾ inches (she struggles to jump onto her bed sometimes), Ananya is a rising sophomore from San Antonio double majoring in Neuroscience and Sports Medicine on a pre-med track. Although you may struggle to see her, you’ll definitely hear her infectious laugh from a mile away. Watch out or you might become the next test subject for her EMS skills (she might struggle to find your pulse right away, but she’ll get there eventually). If you’re looking for a breakfast buddy, Ananya will wake up at 7am and try any servery breakfast with you even if she went to bed at 4am the night before (ask her about how to make the best chocolate chip waffles). And if you’re wondering where to find the best boba (she has a weird obsession with matcha) or looking for a workout buddy (she can bench more than the gym bros), look no further! But in all seriousness, you can always count on her to be there for you, whether it be late night rants, study sessions at Kraft (watch out though, she might fall asleep in the middle of it) or a midnight trip to Denny’s. Get ready for an amazing o-week because you just lucked out with the best advisor!

  (Maya Harpavat, Sid Richardson ‘26; Kiana Komeiji, Hanszen ‘26; Masha Osovskaya, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Giulio

  Sidizens! Hear ye! Hear ye! Whether he’s passionately singing to Ariana Grande while showering in the morning, aggressively tackling a 250 pound man during his Rice Rugby practice in the evening, or tirelessly serving Boba at East West Tea at night, Gulio Valfre Zaydenman – dubbed “Coolio” by his friends – makes sure to give it his all no matter what he’s doing. You might find this Bostonian saucing up his competition in IM Basketball, Soccer, and Flag Football, or playing tennis and pickleball, or swimming, or lifting weights, or biking, or going on a run, or rock climbing, or… you get the idea. However, this athletic specimen isn’t a dummy, although he does tend to forget his keys in his room. Outside of sports, you’ll see him speaking one the four languages he’s mastered or studying for his Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering classes. Genuinely, Giulio is one of the kindest people you’ll meet at Rice, and what he may lack in Chess abilities, he makes up for with his humorous outgoing nature.

  (Dylan Council, Sid Richardson '26)

• Mirely

  Hopping off the METRO-bus (she is OBSESSED with Houston public transportation) with her hands filled with silly string, gingerbread houses and MOST importantly a Starbucks iced white mocha with oatmilk, she is ready to create a new Sid tradition ! Shes studying education and kinesiology, so she will always be down to teach you TikTok moves so y’all can body-ody ah (we dunno what kinese majors do). Speaking of TikTok, she makes really cute recap videos, and you’ll definitely be featured in it if you tag along her frequent boba study breaks. Just make sure to wait to pop your boba or else she’ll yell at you. JK, Mirely’s super sweet, and her infectious laugh and smile are almost as contagious as her iconic phrases— by the end of O-Week, you'll catch yourself slipping into Mirelynese. O-Week kids, consider yourself lucky: Mirely is a force to be reckoned with - a talented videographer, 2x traditions committee head, dedicated tutor, and most importantly, an amazing O-Week mom.

  (Austin Tran, Sid Richardson ‘25; Scott Koh, Sid Richardson ‘25; Krish Kumar, Sid Richardson ‘26; Lily Remington, Hanszen ‘25)

• Keerthi

  Keerthi may be a Wiessman, but her Sid spirit shines through (no seriously, she is very often mistaken for being a Sidizen). Coming from the Woodlands, Texas, Keerthi is a senior majoring in Biosciences and Health Sciences. When she’s not studying genes in the lab, you can find her browsing for cute jeans online – and for real, she has some of the best style on campus. Despite having a packed schedule, being involved with cool campus organizations such as PERIOD at Rice, and dancing her heart out on Rice Bhangra, her Pinterest and Spotify stay updated, an ode to her love for outfits, photos, and endless playlists. While I’m on a roll, I might as well mention her endless love for sushi – honestly, she could probably tell you about every sushi place within 10 miles of Rice. Outside of her many commitments, you may find her grabbing a coffee or hitting up the thrift store, some of her favorite pastimes. When she’s at home, she can be found playing with her two cute pups or being an excellent older sister (mostly). You can look no further for someone to go on long walks or 1 AM night drives with when life gets stressful; all in all, Keerthi is undoubtedly one of the most dependable and caring people you will meet!

  (Vanuli Arya, Sid Richardson ‘24)

Team Minerva

About Minerva

The Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva embodies strategic thinking, intellect, and practical skills. Campers aligned with Minerva possess a keen intellect, a thirst for knowledge, and excel in crafts, inventiveness, and strategic planning.

Team Minerva exemplifies intellectual prowess and strategic thinking. They organize stimulating workshops, academic competitions, and brainstorming

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Neo

  Get absolutely hyped to meet this (allegedly 5 foot) short queen hailing all the way from the mountainous kingdom of Lesotho. This junior at Sid is definitely your go to girl if you need recommendations for true crime podcasts, Netlfix reality tv shows like Love Island, Love Is Blind, and any show really, tips on your amapiano dance moves and don't get her started on How I Met Your Mother because she will go on and on! When she isn't working away at her bioengineering major, you can also find Neo tucked away at her favorite corner of fondy, buried in her latest fiction book(how scholarly!) or in the SRC trying to figure out yet another board game. This cat mom will also make a great oweek advisor, her approachable, caring personality means you can always talk to her about absolutely anything and she's there for you. Also, if you talk to her nicely she'll make some of her favorite spicy Sotho food for you!!

  (Fred Mungai, Sid Richardson '25 and Tolu Asupoto, Brown '25)

• Alejandra

  Want to talk about the difference between cement and concrete? Or do you simply want to rant and listen to the latest K-Pop idol tea? Well, Alejandra has got you covered! This junior Venezuelan baddie from Florida majoring in Civil Engineering will be THE one to single-handedly fix Houston traffic. When Alejandra is not dancing for BASYK, typing up on her laptop as secretary for ASCE, or working on some sort of bridge, you will see her finding the best study spot on campus or getting some Starbucks coffee — para la salud. Alejandra is one of the chillest and coolest people you will find at Sid and if you have her as your advisor, you definitely lucked out! Get ready to have the best O-Week ever with Ale by your side.

  (Bryant Polanco, Sid Richardson '25; Aliya Belay, Sid Richardson '25; Anuska Santra, Sid Richardson '25)

• Mikayla

  Wake up from your nap, because I would hate to sleep on the best Jones '25 Co-Advisor at Sid: Mikayla! This Houstonian is the perfect blend of chill party animal, and academic weapon. She will not disappoint no matter the context you put her in Whatever the case, Mikayla is down to go with you. Just say when and where, and she’ll be there. (Granted, make sure to account for any delays as she is a slow walker.) As a Computer Science major as well as a Spanish and Portuguese Minor, this girl will always be able to speak her mind, whether you are led by logic or the arts. Hype yet?

  (Zev Melina and Wed Timrez, Jones '25)

• Akshay

  Have you ever wondered who makes the world go round? Look no further than Akshay Sethi, a sophomore (C/O 2025) majoring in political science and biosciences with a concentration in cell biology. Taking care of our beautiful Sid quad? Look no further than Akshay. Handling the elections at Sid? Look no further than Akshay. Running the best Beer Bike on campus for TWO YEARS NOW? Look no further than Akshay. If he isn’t spending time making Sid the greatest college, he’s watching and supporting the best football team in America, the Dallas Cowboys, being a Dallas boy himself. Do NOT play Fantasy sports with him though, as everyone in the league can and WILL fleece him. NO matter what he is doing, he does it well and for the better of everyone around him. If he’s your advisor, you’re in amazing hands and have a great IN for Sid culture.

  (Nay Nay Hein, Sid Richardson '25)

• Megan

  Can’t decide what you want to major in or do with your life? Look no further than megan…who just changed her major for the fourth time. Rest assured that the positive attitude that lets her turn “I don’t know what I’m doing with my life” to “I’m exploring my options!” will support you through tough decisions. From marathons to crocheting, she won’t let any opportunity pass her by (and she’ll bring you along too!). Her major (for now) is Chemistry, so if you need help with gen chem or ochem (as most people do) she’ll be an amazing resource. Additionally, as a native Houstonian and rising junior here at Rice, she knows all the tips and tricks to surviving in the city and in your academics. Basically, take her along if you are having a life crisis or even just exploring new coffee shops in town. I promise you won’t regret it!

  (Adara Toran, Hanszen ‘25 and Michiel Noe, Baker ‘25)

Team Diana

About Diana

Diana is the goddess of the hunt and the moon. Those aligned with Diana possess the same traits as their Greek counterpart, exhibiting exceptional hunting skills, a deep connection with nature, and a fierce dedication to protecting the wild and its creatures.

Team Diana nurtures a deep connection with nature at Camp Ω-Week. They lead expeditions, environmental initiatives, and educational programs, encouraging Sidizens to appreciate and protect the natural world. Under their guidance, the campgrounds become a sanctuary where the wonders of the wilderness are embraced and conservation efforts are championed.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Nahom

  Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Greetings and salutations Sidizens. I present thous with the Nahom Zerai. Hailing as the sole resident of Rio Rancho, New Mexico he comes bearing a bright personality and unique gifts. As a rising sophomore majoring in bioengineering, Nahom can guide you through any academic struggles while also impressing you with his biking and basketball skills. More than anything he’s a talented free-styler so make sure to just give him a beat or a guitar so he can make one. Nahom is the perfect advisor to chill with, get boba with, or even have nice long conversations with, and if you want an even longer conversation, tell him he’s 5’8 ;)

  (Arman Hassan, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Faith

  *Ahem* I proudly present rising sophomore Faith Chen, traveling from the far lands of her home in Long Island, New York to Sid Richardson College!! This architecture major has hardcore dedication to her passion for buildings and design, being a member of the Architecture Society and a Rice Architecture Mentorship Program Mentee. When not staying in Anderson Hall until ungodly hours working on her upcoming architecture reviews, you can find Faith tapping into her inner romantic by enjoying the Houston sunset with a mango green tea (with lychee jelly, of course), snacking on some peach rings while rewatching La La Land for the 100th time, or indulging in a good-ol'fashioned calligraphy/drawing/painting/other aesthetic art stuff session. Rest assured, Faith has amazing taste in entertainment too, with her fun and funky music taste (think slow indie, edm, throwbacks, osts, & pop), addiction to Ghibli movies, and scifi brain (Christopher Nolan stan frfr). If she doesn't get swallowed alive by the millions of plushies on her bed first, you'll have a blast getting to know Faith as your advisor!!

  (Karina Pan, Sid Richardson '26)

• Nicole

  If you’re searching for an advisor who is always laughing and rocking a massive caffeine buzz, look no further than Nicole. Although she’s a Junior Biosciences major on the pre-med track, Nicole is never too busy to go on a Chick-fil-A run with you or give you the best pep talk of your life. This Houston local’s red hair makes her instantly recognizable, but try your best not to mistake her for Ice Spice! (It happens all the time.) She is also brave in the face of adversity—she was her 2nd grade basketball team’s highest scorer despite being only 5’1. When she isn’t hooping, Nicole can be found speaking French as Treasurer of the French Club (because she’s classy like that), tearing up the dance floor, or curating pictures of her pets. There is never a dull moment when Nicole is around, and y’all are beyond lucky to have her as your O-Week mom!

  (Gillian Gravatt, Baker '25)

• Josh

  Introducing the one and only, uncommon, but apparently common at Sid, dude from New Mexico. What a lad he is, Joshua Posada, the man of many talents, and stranger to no one. Josh is quite literally one of the nicest/friendliest/funniest people you will ever meet. As a natural leader, Josh tends to always bring people together. He will be your biggest cheerleader and will constantly encourage you! But don’t be fooled – Josh might tease you and bring hilarious jokes to any situation. With exceptional music taste, a 10/10 shoe game, and a knack for funny accents, you lucked out by getting Josh as your advisor! The co-advisor you didn’t know you needed, his biceps are bigger than his brain, but that doesn’t stop him from being an absolute academic weapon. Business major, phineas and ferb enthusiast, Pre-Law, Pre-workout??? His pre-workout routine includes blasting Ice-Spice while taking “blood flow” pills. He’s truly unstoppable (just don’t bring up bulking). Josh is a CO ‘25 Poli Sci/Business double major from McMurtry College.

  (Shreyan Das, Jackson Hughes, Colin Wei, and Christa Westheimer)

Team Venus

About Venus

The Roman goddess of love, beauty, and fertility, Venus represents passion, charm, and alluring grace. Those aligned with Venus possess a magnetic presence, foster harmonious connections, and excel in creative endeavors, captivating others with their irresistible charisma.

With their godly lineage, Team Venus graces Sid with an aura of beauty, love, and enchantment. They organize glamorous events, creative workshops, and bonding activities, infusing the camp with joy and a sense of elegance. Their natural charisma and ability to bring people together make them the heart and soul of the camp.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Hannah

  Her full name may be Hannah Perry (like the platypus) Wixom, but you can call her Hannah. This sophomore mechanical engineering major from Concord, MA is a knockout advisor with an upbeat attitude and knack for telling horrible dad jokes. This All-Sidizen athlete crushes her opponents in powder puff, demolishes in volleyball, and makes buckets in basketball. When she isn't expressing her love for team sports, you can find her planning events as a Social for Sid, working in a lab to make haptic devices, procrastinating her work with T.V, and playing trumpet in Pep band. Hannah is the friendliest person you’ll meet and is always down for a late night bite at Insomnia Cookie or Sweet Paris (that is if she isn't sleeping on the floor already). You’ll know she’s excited when she lets out a growl, jumps up and down, and gives you the best hug of your life. Get ready for a thrilling o-week with Hannah as your advisor!

  (Ellie Jung, Sid Richardson ‘26 and Priya Armour, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Scott

  When it is time for a study break during his nightly Kraft Hall study sessions, he is furiously scavenging for UberEats coupons from his favorite places to eat (because he can’t go on Houston freeways to get there) or laughing at his niche TikToks (watertok?). Suddenly, his pager buzzes, and he zooms on his golf cart to respond to a call as a member of the Rice Emergency Medical Services. Scott Koh is a rising junior studying Health Sciences and Medical Humanities hailing all the way from Houston, TX and is a master of all things Rice. When not at Kraft, you can catch him SERVING around campus as a Tour Guide, at Sid as Treasurer and Head Caregiver, or playing a quick rally of volleyball (in the quad or on the Switch #clapitup). Whenever you need Scott, whether it be for a quick snack or to vent, he will always be there for you <3

  (Krish Kumar, Sid Richardson ’26 / Mirely Nieto, Sid Richardson ’25 / Lily Remington, Hanszen ‘25)

• Jessica

  Hailing from sunny socal (specifically Irvine), it’s Jess! Tbh, we’re surprised she made it with her record of missing flights due to tiktok scrolling. She’s a Lovett sophomore majoring in CS BUT doing the neuro humanities major (so quirky y’all). Striving to improve telehealth/enviro through her computer science pursuits, she still manages to hit nearly every 3.5+ star restaurant along the Houston Metro routes. Don’t be afraid to ask this self-proclaimed expert for any recommendation if you’re just as car-less. With over 10 concerts in her belt, she can definitely show you around Houston’s music scene. She’s got that intellectual oomph for deep late night conversations and she’ll be there through thick and thin. You can find her running dumpling-making events as part of CSA, asserting her dominance in Word Hunt and Geoguessr, or looking for her glasses yet again. She’s dying to meet you!

  (Reggie Bell, Lovett '25; Emily Yang, Jones '25)

• Sam

  Voted "Most Unconventionally Humorous" by the New York Times for 40 consecutive years and recently inaugurated into Rice University's Big Name On Campus (BNOC) Hall of Fame, meet Sam Lee, the most dad-like O-Week advisor you can ask for. Transplanted from San Diego, this self-proclaimed “athlete” and premed neuroscience major will always lend an ear when you need someone to talk to or go on a spontaneous adventure around Houston. When Sam is not busy with his research, saving lives through REMS, or training for a marathon in 3 weeks, you can find him quietly chugging his ramen in his dorm. From navigating your journey at Rice to figuring out your love life, this Californian Korean dad will make your life more electric, memorable, and delicious.

  (Sumin Yoon, Sid Richardson '24)

Team Mars

About Mars

The Roman god of war, Mars embodies disciplined strength, strategic thinking, and military prowess. Campers aligned with Mars exhibit determination, leadership skills, and excel in organized team challenges, embodying the spirit of Roman warfare and valor.

Team Mars embodies the indomitable spirit and courage of their god. At Camp Ω-Week, they are the warriors, valiantly leading their fellow Sidizens through challenges and obstacles. They excel in strategic planning and combat skills, training tirelessly to defend the camp and uphold its honor. With their unwavering determination and disciplined mindset, they inspire others to face adversity head-on and find strength in the face of challenges.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Karina

  *Cue Best Friend by Rex Orange County* Everyone stop what you’re doing!! Introducing your new best friend at Sid, Karina Pan! This rising sophomore, born in Houston but also partly raised in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California, is a Political Science and History double major. When this future foreign service officer isn’t writing papers in a Fondy cubicle or leading meetings for the RiceU for Ukraine club, she can be found taking an ungodly amount of naps, learning the guitar, or taking pictures of the Houston sunset on her Android phone with her camera that’s too good to be true. While Karina may radiate chaotic and goofy energy, she switches into serious gym bro mode when she enters the Rec Center. If you ever need a weightlifting buddy, Karina is your girl! Even though you can’t trust Karina to give you directions around campus, you can trust her to give the best directions in life, whether it’s gym or life advice. Be ready to hear her rave about Interstellar or complain about Chaus misspelling her name (again). Above all, get ready to have the most chaotic and exciting O-Week with your new built-in-bestie at Sid!

  (Claudia Lin, Sid Richardson '26 & Faith Chen, Sid Richardson '26)

• Jonathan

  Need your necklace, Wii, or life fixed? Jo’s your man. Hailing from Sugarland, TX, this man has probably gone through every tool at the OEDK (his second home). Ask him about any one of his engineering projects (he made a contraption to open the door from his desk!) and he won’t be able to shut up (even though you’ll really want him to). Jonathan is a jack of many trades: a violin prodigy, a photographer, a gym goer, you name it. Watch out for his hilarious one-liners – they’ll catch you off guard and writhing on the floor in laughter before you know it. Feel free to reprimand him the next time he tries to make a deez nuts joke or catch him playing league of legends (ew). Jonathan looks forward to welcoming you to Rice and studying, working out, or just talking for the rest of college!!

  (Jessica Liu, Lovett '25)

• Alex

  You’re in group MARS?? LUCKY YOU! Alex is a rising junior and is an AMAZING O-Week dad. He is one of the most caring and genuine people ever. Alex is from Boston (big Celtics fan) and loves Marvel (ask him about his connection to Chris Evans!). Alex keeps himself busy as a SOPA major, data science minor, Spanish certificate-r, and Civic Leadership certificate-r. BUT he manages his time gracefully, balancing his classes (and interesting, rigorous courses he doesn’t even have to take), commitment to Sid (let’s hear it for our PAAs), throw with the Rice Frisbee team Cloud 9, and still prioritizes his relationships with others (we all love Alex). Alex takes advantage of all opportunities at Rice so he’s your go-to person for more information! He is an amazing listener and even better friend. With Alex, you are bound to have such a memorable O-Week and a wonderful supporter throughout your time at Rice!

  (Sienna Tu, Sid Richardson '25)

• Kirim

  Say what? You have Kirim as your Advisor? Well let us tell you, y’all are in good hands! Kirim is a senior studying Neuroscience on the Pre-Med track hailing from the far city of Houston. As an In-Charge for Rice Emergency Medical Services, she is equipped to deal with any situation so if you fall off your bike or just want some general medical advice, she has your back! Although she’s obsessed with coffee, she arguably has a greater obsession with K-dramas, K-pop, and sending you cat Tik-Toks at 3AM in the morning (all great obsessions to have by the way). Did we mention she has a cat named Christopher, who is a very good boy? Kirim is such a kind and funny friend and just like how she makes everyone around her feel cared for, we know you’ll feel the same with her as your Advisor!

  (Helen Tian, Sid Richardson '24; Victoria Chang, Sid Richardson '24)

Team Phoebus

About Phoebus

The Roman counterpart of Apollo, Phoebus is the god of light, music, and prophecy. Campers aligned with Phoebus possess a radiant energy, excelling in artistic expression, intellectual pursuits, and have an intuitive sense of guiding others towards their destinies.

Team Phoebus infuses Sid with a vibrant and artistic energy. Their talent for music, poetry, and performance brings the camp to life with lively melodies and mesmerizing performances. They organize talent shows, open mics, and creative showcases, providing a platform for Sidizens to express their artistic gifts and find inspiration in one another.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Amelia

  Have you ever wanted to walk through a Wattaburger drive thru at 3 am or spontaneously drive to the beach in December? Look no further than Amelia Pillar, a Sid sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering. Hailing from Boston, MA, Amelia is passionate about sustainability and the environment. When she isn't busy designing scooter parking at the oedk, you can find her at Chaus, ordering her 3rd Nutty Bee of the day. She is always down to explore Houston, whether it's going to a boba shop in the middle of nowhere or a revolving sushi bar. However, if you're craving a late night snack, you can always stop by her room for some dried mango and ramen. As a master in the kitchen, she can whip up a pie using only gas station ingredients, just don't trust her to take it out of the oven or your dessert might just get ruined... Amelia is one of the most thoughtful, kindest, funniest, smartest people you will ever meet. She's there to have a deep conversation or a spontaneous adventure depending on where the night takes you. Get ready to meet the most amazing advisor at Sid!

  (Masha Osovskaya, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Xinze

  Xinze is a rising sophomore (‘26) at Sid Richardson college. Although originally from Shanghai, Xinze now lives in San Francisco. He is majoring in mathematics and computer science, and he wants to apply these skills by working with AI / in the space industry. He is a hardworking, conscientious, and humble individual, and above all a great friend. Being an O-week advisor is just one example of how Xinze chooses to use his time with extraordinary purpose. When not studying, TA’ing for RCEL, or pursuing other passion projects, Xinze can be found practicing electric guitar, skateboarding around campus, hitting the gym, and attending rock concerts in Houston.

  (Micheal Khalfin, Jones '26)

• Nay Nay

  Hailing from Myanmar, Nay Nay Hein is one of THE O week Dad for you! Now from the streets of Plano, Texas—Nay Nay is an electric sports fan—supporting the Cowboys, Mavericks, and most importantly—Manchester United. When you don't see him scootering around campus, you can find him hitting the books while playing Football Manager 23 (He WILL make the Red Devils win 20 Champions Leagues in a row). The most caffeinated Sidizen, Nay Nay always has a Red Bull stash on him, ready to munch on anything—so ask him for restaurants around town. Nay Nay is one of the most passionate and lighthearted people at Rice, not to mention serving as a wonderful resource for academics and life. Nay Nay takes his work very seriously, and as one of a select few Quad Reps at Sid, he ensures the living space around our beautiful college is welcoming and fun

  (Akshay Sethi, Sid Richardson ‘25)

• Ayaka

  You must have built up a surplus of good karma because you ended up with Ayaka Hoshida as your advisor!!! Straight out of Dallas, this Martel College senior is a modern day Renaissance woman/mechanical engineer/legend. Did someone cut you in line at Chaus? Ayaka will pull up in full fencing gear and fence them into submission. Need someone to enable your mid-day nap? There’s a 99% chance that Ayaka has already been asleep since 1pm so go for it. Stuck in jail? She’ll probably consider bailing you out… (?) If you need to panic about whether you should drop premed, need a reference to literally any engineering club on campus, or just want to vent about relationship problems, Ayaka is your go-to. Buckle up and get ready for the one and only… Ayaka Hoshida.

  (Sydney Kim, Martel '24)

Team Apollo

About Apollo

The Greek god of music, prophecy, and healing, Apollo symbolizes creativity, intellect, and inspiration. Those aligned with Apollo have a natural talent for music, poetry, oratory skills, and possess a thirst for knowledge, spreading light and wisdom wherever they go.

The creative brilliance of Team Apollo shines brightly at Camp Ω-Week. Sid is filled with music, art, and intellectual enlightenment. Their passion for artistic expression and intellectual pursuits lights up the camp, inspiring others to explore their own talents and embrace the power of creativity.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Eric

  Would you like a serious gym bro? An avid fan of philosophy? A studious student of the Chinese language? Presenting to you: Eric Youngerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. A PoliSci (Political Science) and Asian Studies major in the Class of 2026, Eric is just a Great Guy. If you want to try out a place to eat, make sure to call him up, especially if it's vibey. If you want to go to New York City, talk to this man. He might be from Austin, but his heart is with NYC. Other than being a spokesperson for skateboarding, he is the most approachable person you'll ever meet. Always the go-to guy for advice. Also, you have to ask him to show you his booming snap. You just have to. Don't talk about cardio though.

  (Eric Jia, Quan Tran, Fernando Garcia, Ted Guerra, Victor Nica, Emme Khaodhiar (Sid Richardson '26))

• Nelly

  Did you hear that there’s a goddess among us at Camp O-Week?? That’s right—it’s your advisor, Nelly Zapata! Nelly is a caring and spontaneous junior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Business who will be sure to make your first-year experience at Rice amazing. As a native Houstonian, Nelly knows the best spots in town for late night snacks and deep conversations with a view—she’ll take you in her car (all hail the Vaddie) as long as you bump Drake and Bad Bunny on the way there! Though frequently out and about, Nelly knows how to stay in – she’s a skilled painter with plenty of masterpieces, and she’s the #1 watcher of Beauty & The Beast. Whatever adventure you embark on, Nelly will both support you and do it with you. She’s one of the funniest, coolest people we’ve ever met, and we can’t wait for you to meet her too!

  (Grace Wang, Sid Richardson ‘25 & Siddhi Narayan, Sid Richardson ‘25)

• Aliya

  Aliya Belay is a junior Sidizen and proud Mechanical Engineering major. Besides being the actual Queen of Eritrea, she was born and raised in the DMV. Miss girl lived in Baltimore and is now stationed right out of DC (actually Laurel, MD) (global citizen???). A student leader in Eclipse, she can build rockets and launch them better than NASA. They tried to hire her, but she was too busy carrying the weight of Habesha greatness at Rice University. She is the co-director and choreographer of Habesha Dance (also explains why she basically owns green and gold). If you ever need someone to commit to a bit, she will put on a whole performance. Representative of the sweet tea fanatics club, this girl is the sweetest and the most caring. You will have the best O-Week ever with Aliya as your advisor!

  (Alejandra Jimenez, Sid Richardson '25; Bryant Polanco, Sid Richardson '25; Anuska Santra, Sid Richardson '25)

• Beni

  If everything everywhere all at once was a person, it’d be Beni Nguyen because in her own words, “My life is in shambles.” Beni is a Martel senior co-advisor from the streets of Austin, TX double majoring in Psychology & Cognitive Sciences and double minoring in Neuroscience and Entrepreneurship! Yeah… she’s everywhere. Neuroscientist? Business? Clinical psychology? Pre-grad? Pre-med? Pre-wed??? (iykyk) TBD! Beni will be your go-to person if you ever want to go on a spontaneous adventure! We ball & we bawl TOGETHER :D A fair warning to her O-Week kids: she WILL be blinding you with her film camera, but pain is temporary, cool film pics and vision problems are forever :) She’s on the Wellbeing Committee and an intern at the Wellbeing Center, so you know she’ll give the best advice and hugs. Her head may be in the 99.9th percentile for size, so is her heart <3

  (Temi Olarinde, Martel ‘25 & Kailin Zhang, Martel ‘23)

Team Hermes

About Hermes

The Greek god of travel, communication, and commerce, Hermes symbolizes agility, wit, and versatility. Campers aligned with Hermes possess exceptional speed, cunning, and excel in tasks requiring quick thinking, adaptability, and effective communication.

Team Hermes brings energy, agility, and effective communication to Camp Ω-Week. They are known for their quick thinking and adaptability, making them natural leaders in fast-paced activities and team challenges. Their presence injects a vibrant spirit into Sid, keeping everyone on their toes and encouraging open and clear communication among the campers.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Claudia

  Hailing from Irvine, California, Claudia—affectionately known as Cloud—is a sophomore pursuing a major in English, with a minor in Business and a certificate in Civic Leadership. This Cali girl’s interests are super diverse, from the intersection of ethical and representative storytelling, social impact, and civic engagement, to becoming the next Elle Woods. When she’s not slaying as a writer for the Thresher, tutoring children with PAIR Houston, or re-reading “Tuesdays with Morrie” for the thousandth time, you can find this hopeless romantic curating hundreds of custom Spotify playlists that effortlessly match any vibe! Her own playlist has her faves like Miss TSwift, Bruno Major, and Laufey. If you ever want to watch a rom-com or go on a whimsical Disney marathon, Cloud’s got you. When she isn’t exhausting all her tetra on chai tea lattes from Brochstein or giving free concerts in the shower, you can find her embarking on sushi dates, spontaneous cafe and bookstore trips, or screaming songs on sunsets drives. GET READY TO BE ON CLOUD 9 WITH THE CLOUD AT CAMP O-WEEK!!

  (Faith Chen, Sid Richardson '26 and Joanna Anil, Martel '26)

• Ashley

  Few people are as caring and dedicated as Ms. Chiagoze Chuks-Nwosu. Ashley is a sophomore Cognitive Sciences major on the pre-med track from the burbs of Katy, Texas. As your advisor, she will work tirelessly to make sure you have an amazing O-Week experience. Also not to mention but she is such a mother. Whether it be little check ins or giving you the best advice, she will take care of you as if you’re one of her own children. The gag is though…….it doesn't stop there. Ashley is a professionally-certified queen with a hint of spice and realness. She is a Bridgerton fanatic and loves to listen to Steve Lacy and Arctic Monkeys (great music taste, am i right?). Honestly, I can’t fit everything that’s amazing about Ashley into 150 words but if she’s your advisor, consider it a kiss from the heavens <3

  (Sean Nyangeri, McMurtry ‘26)

• Mason

  Coming all the way from Wiess (even though it’s only like a 10 second walk from Sid), Mason Howell is a young biochem phenom who can provide endless advice on the pre-med grind if you so ask. But not only that, he can also offer infinite positive encouragement, free paddleboard lessons (as a paddleboard instructor by trade), a listening ear, and his trademark lightning-quick Google search that can settle any disputes that may arise. Also, did I mention that he drives manual? This Marylandian will drop literally anything he’s doing and be the first to respond to any needs you might have, whether that be a ride to the airport or a screwdriver. Keeping all this in mind, I’m positive Mason is going to make for an amazing co-advisor. P.S. take good care of him and make sure he gets back to Wiess in one piece!

  (Michael Ngo, Wiess ‘25)

• Ethan

  Shredded. Ripped. Quads for days. Gluteus Maximus like no other. These are all characteristics of Greek Gods, and it just so happens that Ethan Kao matches this description perfectly. Ethan’s a senior Sidizen in the class of 2024, but he’s definitely made his mark on Sid Rich. Ethan Kao loves participating in sports that no one cares about, like Rice Rugby. If you know Ethan, you can definitely tell that he LOVES meat. Especially steak. He’s got a makeshift kitchen in his dorm room, complete with a rice cooker, air fryer, and other things that would make Gordan Ramsey cringe. On any given day, you can find Ethan at the gym (so he can impress Colin) or Chaus (so he can get away from Colin). The Houston, Texas native actually coined the phrase “Business in the front, party in the back” - he’s pursuing a Business (Finance) and Economics double major here at Rice, but you can catch Ethan walking around in his World Famous booty shorts with rubber ducks on them. He’s goofy, charming, outgoing, kind, and supportive - everything you’d ever want in a friend.

  (Lauren Hurt, Sid Richardson ‘24)

Team Ares

About ARES

The Greek god of war, Ares embodies raw strength, courage, and the spirit of battle. Those aligned with Ares possess a relentless determination, fearlessness in the face of adversity, and excel in combat and physical challenges.

Team Ares at Camp Ω-Week channels the fierce and fearless nature of their god. They exhibit unwavering loyalty and bravery, always ready to defend their fellow Sidizens and stand up for what they believe in. With a competitive spirit, they excel in sports and physical challenges, igniting the fire of determination within the camp and inspiring others to push their limits.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Sophia

  Make way sidizens… for Sophia Nance!!! She might be shorter than average, but don’t let stature deceive you. You can find this civil engineering major tasting concrete in her spare time (mostly joking), or you may find her at 2 AM making herself some ramen in Sid kitchen, like a true model sidizen. As a sophomore coming from El Paso, Texas, she is also great at hiking, which unfortunately does not really come in handy in Houston. If you’re interested in watching sitcoms or listening to Elton John, this is your person. She’s also known to go on long tangents about the environment or her other passions. If this is the case, you can always distract her with some good chocolate. In short (pun intended), Sophia is always there for a good time, and a great person to get to know.

  (Caesar Coss, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Timauri-Lee

  Are you ready to meet the biggest SZA enthusiast? Look no further, because from head to toe, even down to her beloved SZA crocs, Timauri-Lee Carby is your girl! Whether you’re at your grandma’s funeral, on a spring break road trip, or just got destroyed by your midterm; Timauri has a playlist for EVERY occasion. Representing the beautiful country of Jamaica, Timauri is an island gyal through and through. Not only does she take pride in her country, but she also prides herself in her blackness by advocating for equality. Although she isn’t a makeup guru (just yet), her passion for makeup WILL make her the next NikkieTutorials. Being from McMurtry, Timuari goes BANANAS over bad reality TV shows (like Extreme Cheapskates???). Majoring in Chemical Engineering, Timauri is an ORGO academic weapon and loves making positive impacts on the environment. This love extends to her personal relationships as well. You can count on Timauri for a shoulder to cry on, a bombastic side eye, or real advice (she’s defo the mom of the group). Anyone would be lucky to have Timauri as an advisor (plus she’ll always make your favorite Chaus order with love <3).

  (Kamya Harper, Duncan '26 & Shay Olaifa, Martel '26)

• Bryant

  What’s that noise?? Chances are that’s Bryant Polanco coming your way with his new song obsession, ready to get YOU obsessed with it too. This sassy Dominican junior from Boca Raton, Florida will make sure you have the best o-week ever! Officially, he’s a Neuroscience and Health Sciences major, but everyone knows he majors in memes and jokes. He l-i-t-e-r-a-l-ly has a meme for every occasion, just try him! Whenever he’s not managing Sid’s money, working REMS, making AWESOME designs, or grinding Orgo, you can find Bryant ordering his weekly chick-fil-a or satisfying his ShareTea Cocoa Creama addiction. Be ready to laugh until you cry, learn about new artists, and slay every day with the best O-week advisor at Sid!

  (Alejandra Jimenez, Aliya Belay, and Anuska Santra, Sid Richardson '25)

• Kevin

  If you ever walk by and see someone meticulously scrutinizing over his red road bike or taking amazing photos, you’ve come across Kevin! As a double major in Biosciences and VADA (photography), Kevin is a senior with wide interests. You will find it easy to connect with him, whether it’s about guitar, music (he's a big metalhead), calisthenics, restaurants in Houston, or his hometown of Chicago (although he really spent most of his life in the suburb of Naperville, Illinois). You can also catch him trying to teach himself how to play the drums and admiring the cute dogs on campus. But most importantly, Kevin is a patient, caring soul who will be by your side through thick and thin and you are incredibly lucky to have him as your advisor!

  (Charlotte Lo, Sid Richardson '23)

Team Athena

About ATHENA

The Greek goddess of wisdom, courage, and strategic warfare, Athena represents intellect, strategy, and diplomacy. Those aligned with Athena possess sharp intellect, analytical thinking, and excel in problem-solving, displaying wisdom beyond their years.

Team Athena embodies wisdom, intellect, and strategic thinking. They establish an atmosphere of intellectual growth and mentorship at Camp Ω-Week. Sidizens look up to them for guidance, seeking their wisdom and expertise in various disciplines. Through their innovative problem-solving and collaboration, they foster a community where knowledge is celebrated and minds are sharpened.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Imaje

  Meet Imaje Harvey! From Olathe, Kansas but has learned her away around the city in no time. Maje is one of the most genuine, friendly, and easy to talk to people on campus. This sophomore Psychology major is the perfect person to go to for life advice about everything under the sun- friends, partners, parents, hairstyles, food spots- there’s no topic off limits. She has a passion for mental health, especially racial disparities in mental health. (stay tuned for the black mental health coalition club!!!!). She will not hesitate to drive you to any of her favorite Houston spots in her Ford Escape, especially if it’s to the Popeyes on Main Street. If you ever need someone to give you directions to any place on campus, write a persuasive email to a professor, go to concerts, or find you a great Groupon deal, Maje is your girl! BUT CONGRATULATIONS TO WHOEVER READING THIS, YOU HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH THE GREATEST DIVERSITY FACILITATOR YOU COULD ASK FOR! Get ready to have the best week of your life with Maje.

  (Jenna Byrd, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Bryce

  Buckle up and brace yourselves, Sidizens, because Bryce Liu is coming through, gathering the group to find something fun to do! A computer science and religion double major, Bryce will be your co-advisor from Duncan! Hailing from right here in THE Houston, Texas, Bryce will be your local tour guide through your time at Rice, where he’ll harness his perfect blend of charisma and chill to make it memorable. He’ll take you to his favorite museums, finding amazing deals thrifting, or bringing you along on an intense workout at the Rec Center, just to name a few! When he’s not engaging in his favorite hobbies of biking, baking, and making beats, you can catch him curating the chillest playlists or sharpening his skills at Mario Kart (champion of Duncan!).

  ((Daniel Li, Duncan '25), (Ethan Peck, Duncan '24))

• Kush

  Where does one even start when it comes to Kush Mangla? Let's start at the beginning. Hailing from Mumbai, Kush was (surprisingly) an athletic kid. In fact, he claims to have been a state champion at ‘lawn’ tennis. Unfortunately, his athletic career halted when his coach made him take one too many rounds of the court. The not-at-all-lazy Kush then set his eyes on Rice. And oh boy is Rice’s Class of 2025 lucky to have him. Although our mascot is Sammy the Owl, I think our mascot should’ve been Kush the Dolphin. Why dolphin? Kush, like a dolphin, is very social. He’s a celebrity walking around campus, it’s quite the sight. Like looking at a dolphin, it’s impossible not to break into a smile when seeing Kush’s perpetually smiling face. I don’t know what dolphins smell like but you’re guaranteed an intoxicating aroma around Kush (hard to believe he’s a computer science major). But seriously, Kush is someone you know has your back, someone you can talk to forever and someone you’re super lucky to have as your O-Week dad.

  (Laiba Muhammed Ali, Sid Richardson '26)

• Jared

  And the Oscar for luckiest new student goes to… YOU, since you have Jared Duran as your Chief Justice! Jared is like an onion; he'll make you shed a tear because of his awe-inspiring beauty, and boy does this hunk have layers. He’s one of the hottest young DJs in the game at KTRU. He’s a certified athletic weapon, setting PRs at the gym on a daily basis like he's Arnold Schwarzenegger. This junior is also a Computer Science major and Philosophy minor, so he can talk to you about C++ while also discussing how you C the world. He has an unrivaled ability to get to know people; strike up a conversation with him, and you might just spend two hours discussing the political implications of gerrymandering or spilling your entire life stories to each other. Jared is truly one of the best people to get to know; he’s an incredible friend, and an even better human being. Just never ask him to cook a steak for you. He might end up lighting the Sid kitchen on fire again.

  (Prat Mohapatra, Sid Richardson ‘25)

• Vanuli

  Meet Vanuli Arya. Raised in good old Coppell, Texas, this Neuroscience major (PRE-MED :o) is a prime example of someone who can do it all. When fall comes around, get ready for the best-smelling pumpkin muffins you can imagine - a common Vanuli dub. With an uncanny affinity for crafting, join this modern-day Michaelangelo in her classic water coloring, doodling on Trader Joe’s paper bags, or play-doh sculpting. You’re in luck because with Vanuli also comes pictures of the world’s cutest muppet, her dog Lany. If you’re ever wondering what Vanuli is up to, 99% of the time she’s listening to music ranging from Dominic Fike to old Drake to Childish Gambino to Smino (sometimes the same song on repeat for days). If you’re ever feeling tired or caught a case of the “I Hate Mondays”, Vanuli is the perfect person to call because she’ll drop everything to get Dunkin’ coffee with you - she really loves coffee guys. Do you have a green thumb? So does Vanuli, with a plant count in the double digits. She is also one of the smartest people you’ll meet and will help you with any problem you have. The most important thing to note about Vanuli though, is that no matter what, she will always be there for you through anything.

  (Pooja Sashital, Brown '24 and Liz Avakov, Brown '24)

Team Artemis

About Artemis

The Greek goddess of the hunt and the moon, Artemis embodies independence, wilderness, and the spirit of nature. Campers aligned with Artemis possess exceptional archery skills, a deep connection with the natural world, and exhibit a strong sense of justice and protection.

Team Artemis, known for their connection to nature and exceptional archery skills, brings an adventurous spirit to Camp Ω-Week. They organize nature walks, outdoor activities, and conservation efforts, instilling a deep respect for the environment among their fellow Sidizens. Under the moonlit skies, they create a sanctuary where the wonders of nature and the spirit of adventure thrive.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Maya

  Showered, brushed teeth, and tucked into bed by her closest friends in her beloved twelfth floor double (ask to see her view), Maya is sound asleep at a healthy 9:30 p.m. Waking up at a bright 7am, her first task is to stash her backpack with tons of GoGo Squeezes and will make sure her day is spent making the most of it. Maya is a Health Sciences and English (+ a minor in Medical Humanities!) sophomore who spreads her infectious joy to everyone around her through smiles and loving hugs. If you are ever looking to find the best acai bowls or Mediterranean food around Rice, Maya is a proud Houstonian (vegetarian!) who LOVES to explore but don’t accidentally kill her by feeding her a peanut (she almost died TWICE freshman year). When Maya isn’t exploring with her friends you can find her being a Rice tour guide, as a Sid RHA, or serving as our amazing Sid Secretary. Although she may only offer you sugar-free lemonade and the healthiest variety of snacks when you visit her dorm (sugar and caffeine make her extra hyper), you’ve definitely lucked out having Maya as your O-Week advisor and she can’t wait to welcome you to Rice!

  (Mirely Nieto, Sid Richardson ‘25 and Krish Kumar, Sid Richardson ‘26)

• Aryana

  You must be the luckiest person to get this scrumptious very biteable baby-looking most adorable smartest sweetest kindest funnest all the -est SLAYEST advisor ever!!! Aryana is a Psychology and Anthropology junior Hanszenite from Katy interning in the Wellbeing Center so if you EVER need to talk to someone she's an amazing option because this girl has all the best advice and compliments and encouragements in the bag. Actual best hypewoman ever (although if she gets a little feral when she’s too hype sometimes)!! When you're not seeing this girl study, she's probably playing Just Dance, stretching to play Just Dance, or asking a bunch of people around to play Just Dance with her. Aryana is a HUGEEE dessert foodie, so literally hit her up if you ever want to know which servery has the best dessert cause 11x out of 10 she'd already have that info!! But of course no dessert will ever match the sweetness this girl has for the people she loves. This ball of sunshine is incredibly thoughtful and will be there for you even if Niki, Grent Perez, or Yung Gravy is singing her name (jk she's not stupid). Unlike Ariana Grande, there is absolutely no reason for you to say Thank You, Next to Aryana being your advisor <3

  (Victoria Santos, Will Rice '25, Ethan Nava Maldonado, Hanszen '26)

• Guinivere

  Meet Guinivere, a Political Science and Sport Management major from Hong Kong that’s super down to earth (she’s 5’2). She walks at lightning speed and falls everywhere, yet refuses to use her wrist and ankle braces. The only thing protecting her feet are her little cute animal socks— of which she never has a matching pair. Guinivere has terrible spending habits: she once ordered a tiny blue foldable mattress thinking it was gonna be a couch, and the rest of her wallet is drained by coffee, food, and eggs (her friends that she travels to see). Speaking of food, Guinivere has a ridiculous collection of MomoFuku chili oils and never eats her meals without shredded pork and fried shallots. With her heart of gold, fiercely loyal nature, and a talent for making genuine connections, Guinivere is sure to be an incredible O-Week advisor, and you kiddos are lucky to have her.

  (Austin Tran, Sid Richardson '25 & Isabelle Ong, Sid Richardson '25)

• Adam

  Get HYPED because you’re about to meet your new advisor, Mr. Adam Nelson! Adam is a senior and Houston local. When he's not helping you navigate campus life, you might find him perfecting his golf swing or jamming out to indie tunes. Don't be intimidated by Adam's luscious mustache, signature chain, and profound interest in the impact of biopolymers on macrophage behavior (did I mention he’s a Biosciences major?)- he’s an excellent listener and more than happy to show you the ins and outs of your Sid experience. Plus, he's always happy to chat with you about everything from The Office to the best thrift spots in town. And if you need a workout buddy, Adam's your guy. He hits the gym religiously and might just motivate you to do the same. Most importantly, Adam is an excellent friend and person to talk to. He's here to help you make the most of your time at Rice, so don't hesitate to ask him for advice or just chat about life (ask him about his dog, Peanut). Get ready for an exciting O-Week with Adam as your guide- you already KNOW it’s gonna be a movie!

  (Keegan Leibrock, Sid Rich ‘24; Karen Lu, Sid Rich ‘24)

Team Mercury

About Mercury

Mercury is the god of travel, communication, and commerce. Those aligned with Mercury possess the same qualities as their Greek counterpart, exhibiting swift movement, excellent communication skills, and a natural affinity for business and negotiation.

Team Mercury channels the quick-wittedness and agility of their god, becoming the masters of communication and coordination at Camp Ω-Week. Like their divine counterpart, they excel in the art of networking and negotiation, bringing together Sidizens from all walks of life. With their swift feet and sharp minds, they navigate the camp's vibrant social landscape, ensuring that information flows seamlessly and connections are forged.

The Team

Read their bios below!

• Abby

  Is love really blind? Just ask this avid reality TV viewer and humble sophomore orgo master from Lebanon—the burb in Ohio, not the country. Abby’s aiming for a Biosciences major… or maybe a Chem major? Actually, just ask her when you get here. Abby is incredibly well rounded, whether she’s singing (ask her about show choir!) or carrying Sid on her back as secretary. Speaking of music, catch Abby listening to her favorite artist, Post Malone. If you’re interested in intramural sports, you can find Abby destroying the competition on the volleyball court. On campus, you might find her touring a group of eager applicants, trying to figure out who’s from the Midwest. By having her as your advisor, at least 80% of your networking goals are met. Abby’s a true altruist at heart. You’re lucky to have a loving, capable O-week parent; have no fear when Abby is here!

  (Laura Cox '26; Chloé Serna '26; Abigail Vargheese '26; Megan Wright '26; Mariella Gonzalez '26; Allison Bullock '26 and Eugenia Nwogu '26 )

• Angela

  Are you looking for a LOUD, SUPER HYPE PERSON??! Well keep looking, cause Angela is the exact but perfect opposite. She’s a sophomore double majoring in English and VADA from Dallas (but NOT Fort Worth— cough cough Colin). You can’t catch Angela without her digicams, so if you see a camera pointed at you, don’t worry— she’ll make you look good with her Fujifilm filters. She may be a shy mysterious bookworm, but she’s always down to book it to a party. After O-Week, she’ll host RAGERS at her apartment so she can show off her signature hand bop dance moves. Whether it be preaching about Phoebe Bridgers and Taylor Swift or showing off her favorite memes, she is always open to talk to you about anything as silly as her mario jumping noise or anything as serious as grammar. O-Week kiddos: prepare to have the slayest O-Week with Angela by your side.

  (Matsuka Gaja, Hanszen '26 and Austin Tran, Sid Richardson '25)

• Jashun

  Don’t know a single thing about or from Indiana? Congrats! Your new o-week dad hails straight from the corn fields of West Lafayette, IN. When you meet him he might be dressed like a semi-normal sidizen, but you’ll spend the rest of the year catching him dressed in his default outfit: pj pants, rice crewneck/hollister sweatshirt, and (if you’re lucky) his jesus 3000s dad sandals. It’s hypothesized that as a small child, he took ten times the recommended dosage of his Flintstone vitamins and can now use up to 110% of his brain. That’s why Jashun’s double majoring in Biochemistry and Comp Sci (and if he tells you he’s not premed he’s lying) with a minor in FCAM (Financial Computation and Modeling). So if you can get him to leave his room and put down Super Smash Bros, he’s a great study buddy & premed/comp support. Despite the lengthy list of Jashun’s strange habits, you’ve won Indiana’s national treasure (and he is genuinely lovable, kinda like a black lab, and might just make you laugh once in a while).

  (Cayla Xue Sid ‘26, Indrani Maitra Sid ‘26, Sonakshi Bhalla Sid ‘26)

• Colin

  Ah yes Colin Wei, a sociology major and Beer Bike Coordinator who loves to munch, sleep and play Mario Kart. Colin is a slow eater, but that doesn't stop him from enjoying every bite of Cane's chicken. Despite his laid-back personality, he's a driven student with aspirations of becoming a doctor. Colin also takes his cleaning seriously and is known for his skills as a vacuum cleaner cleaner. Colin enjoys producing and working on creative projects with friends. When he’s not speeding around campus like the shadow the hedgehog imitator he is, you can find him cooking up in the studio making some intellectually brutal mixtapes. Ask him about the Family Ties remix. And don't forget to ask him about his height - he claims to be 5'11"!. But above all else, Colin is a great guy who is always dependable and ready to crack a hilarious joke.

  (Megan Martono, Sid Richardson '24, Josh Posada, McMurtry '25, and Chat GPT)