Academic weapon Mariella definitely knows how to manage a schedule; you should see her play overcooked! Besides her Nintendo Switch expertise, this future museum curator is an avid MFAH attendee, never failing to stop at the café for a lemon tart; luckily, her history and art history majors warrant the frequent trips. Once she’s got her coffee in hand (and not a second before), she’ll craft you the perfect academic schedule. An east coast junior from Cornelius, NC, Mariella has only sacrificed two IDs (unfortunately, in the same place, only a week apart). But don’t worry, she’s much better at keeping track of the Rice academic policies and Taylor Swift’s entire tracklist than small plastic cards. You, and your four-year plan, are in the best hands with Mariella as your O-Week PAA!

- Megan Wright, Sid Richardson ‘26; Abigail Vargheese, Sid Richardson ‘26; Laura Cox, Sid Richardson ‘26; Abby McKellop, Sid Richardson ‘26

In life, there is one mystery that can’t be solved: What’s taller, Sid Richardson or Mohammad Khuroo? Don’t be intimidated by the 6 foot 3 senior, Mohammad Khuroo (formally known as MGK) - he’s one of the most understanding people you’ll ever meet! As a dual major in Biochemistry and Asian studies, he is a great resource for all you incoming pre-meds. A true armchair philosopher, Mohammad is always open to a deep conversation about topics like: “What is the true meaning of life?” and “Which legendary Pokemon is the best?” Aside from acing his exams and absolutely tearing up the badminton court, Mohammad is always down for a kickback with friends and a couple of gyro sandwiches. If you’re ever looking for someone to talk with, or the best advice on academics or just life, Mohammad is your person. There is never a dull time with Mohammad, so get ready for an amazing O-Week!

- Saif Ganni, Sid Richardson ’25

CS and Pre-Med? A lovely opera singer and the biggest yapper? Pankti Mehta is one of the cutest combinations of randomly generated skills and traits at Rice, a luxury import straight from the imaginary land of Ohio. Standing at the incredible height of 5 ft 3 inches (she insists on the extra inch from her sandals), Pankti is a nocturnal nocturnalist, often found burning the midnight oil in Fondy till the wee hours of 2 am.

But here's the kicker: Pankti is not all work and no play. Nope, when she's not slinging henna tattoos like a pro, you’ll catch her doing spot-on Hermione Granger impressions that would make even Emma Watson proud. And let me just tell you, this girl's got taste – she'll switch between Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, English, and French faster than you can say ""multilingual marvel.""

So, whether you're looking for a stimulating conversation, a coding marathon, or simply someone to passionately debate you about the existence of Ohio (it’s a real place, trust me!), Pankti is your go-to gal. Get ready to be academically advised by one of the coolest academic advisors out there!

- Caroline Huynh, Sid Richardson '26; Praise Mayor, Sid Richardson '26; Paola Hoffman, Sid Richardson '26; Advika Rajeev, Sid Richardson '26

Meet Anastasia Loiko (Sid ‘27)! Hailing from Austin, this well-rounded academic weapon is pursuing a dual degree in Neuroscience and Mathematics. In addition to her gazillion bits of stationery, Anastasia’s never-ending aesthetic chalkboard math notes and collection of hardcover notebooks can inspire any demotivated Sidizen to achieve their A game. When you need a study break, she’s got your back too! She’d love to make you matcha, show you her skillful – not to mention therapeutic – crocheting, or take you bird-watching (a roseate spoonbill once peed on her but the pictures were worth it 👌). If she’s not at her two other homes (Fondren’s 6th floor or Herman Brown’s math lounge), you can find Anastasia at Shepherd reconnecting with her musical side (aka practicing piano + planning which music concert to attend next). Most importantly though, she’s diligent, trustworthy and honest, so rest assured that your academic endeavors are in great hands!

-Victoria Liu, Duncan, '27