College is full of new experiences, friendships, and endless opportunities. It can also feel a bit overwhelming at times. That鈥檚 why we created Foundation to Fly, a peer mentoring program designed just for you as you begin your journey at Kennesaw State University.

By joining Foundation to Fly, students will be carefully matched with a Wing Leader 鈥� an experienced upperclassman who knows exactly what it鈥檚 like to navigate the transition to college. Wing Leaders provide academic and personal support to help first-year students adjust to college life, set goals, and discover campus resources to help you succeed. Whether you have questions about study habits, want to get involved on campus, or simply need someone to listen and encourage you, your Wing Leader is here for you every step of the way.

ksu students collaborating at a table.

What is a Wing Leader?

Wing Leaders are trained 麻豆传媒 upperclassmen who mentor first-year students. They help you feel confident as you soar into your first-year experience at 麻豆传媒. Wing Leaders are here to help first-year students build meaningful connections and succeed at 麻豆传媒 and beyond.

How Can a Wing Leader Help You?

Academic Support

Your Wing Leader will help you navigate campus resources and develop important skills like time management and study strategies, setting you up for academic success.

Community Building

Your Wing Leader will introduce you to other first-year students and help you find your community. Through learning labs, social events, and interest groups, you鈥檒l build friendships and connections.

Getting Connected

Your Wing Leader will help you feel at home at 麻豆传媒 by connecting you with clubs, organizations, and campus activities 鈥� making it easier to find your people and feel that sense of belonging.

Personal Growth

Your Wing Leader is also there to listen, encourage you to explore your interests, and help you tackle new challenges. Your Wing Leader will be there to support your learning and personal growth throughout your first year. 

Our Mission

Wing Leaders help First-Year Students develop a foundation to fly by serving as relational role models, sharing authentic stories and mutual experiences. Wing Leaders are committed to fostering meaningful connections and providing thoughtful guidance on how to navigate the 麻豆传媒 experience. 

Beyond Peer Mentoring

When you join Foundation to Fly, you鈥檒l gain access to exclusive opportunities to help you grow, connect, and make the most of your first-year experience:

  • Want to meet first-year students who share your passions? Join one of our Interest Groups. FIG topics for Fall 2025-Spring 2026: 
    Ideas Worth Sharing  Want to be on the TED talk stage someday? Develop your public speaking skills and stage presence through improv, games, and debates.
    Stories That Stick  Join us as we jump into one powerful book each semester. We'll connect with the book and with each other in ways that will stick with you long after you turn the last page.
    Leaders Who Lift  Learn how to lead from your values through guest speakers, networking opportunities, and student leadership events.
    Build and Battle  Lego Master? Bridge builder? Collaborate with or challenge your fellow students as you face increasingly tricky tasks.
    Dollars and Degrees  Want to learn how to adult? To budget, build your retirement, and become a millionaire? Learn extra tips from finance experts as guest speakers!
    Create and Cultivate This group blends the fun of journaling, arts and crafts, and scrapbooking, allowing students to reflect on their journey, set meaningful goals, and celebrate their growth.
    Passport to Learning Dream of studying abroad? Love learning languages, eating food from different cultures, and meeting new people? This is for you!
    Wellness Wings  Want to feel your best inside and out? Interested in mindfulness, healthy habits, and building a balanced life? This is for you.

  • Connect with professional Student Success Coaches who can help you navigate challenges, set goals, and support you all year long.

  • Want to sharpen your skills in communication, study strategies, time management, and more? Learning Labs are interactive, hands-on experiences designed to help first-year students explore these topics in a fun, supportive environment.

    You can find upcoming Learning Labs on the Academic Coaching & Support .

  • Enjoy special invites to fun events. Plus, you鈥檒l receive surprise perks and goodies along the way! 
  • Take your involvement to the next level by earning a micro-credential that recognizes your successful transition into college. It鈥檚 a proud accomplishment and a great way to showcase your growth!

How Do I Join Foundation to Fly?

Some first-year students will automatically receive a Wing Leader based on their fall semester course block schedule.

If you鈥檙e not automatically paired but would like to connect with a Wing Leader, or if you鈥檇 like to participate in any of our other offerings, we鈥檇 love to have you join us!

You can also email ssp@kennesaw.edu for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Foundation to Fly is a first-year support program offered by Academic Coaching & Support. Your Foundation to Fly team is:

  • Yes! Foundation to Fly is open to ALL first-year students! Online or in-person, Marietta or Kennesaw campus, part-time or full-time. This program is for YOU.
  • Yes! While we designed our offerings to work together, you can also select what works best for you. For example, you could start by building a strong relationship with your Wing Leader and then choose to join a Foundation Interest Group to broaden your social connections. Or develop your strengths and set goals with your first-year Student Success Coach, and then add on peer mentorship and FIGs later!
  • While there isn鈥檛 a deadline, the program is designed to enrich your experience beginning with your very first day. The sooner you share your interest in becoming a Foundation student, the better! (You don鈥檛 want to miss out on the Welcome Bash!)
  • When you share your interest in becoming a Foundation student, we will send you a Mentor Match survey. You鈥檒l have the opportunity to talk about your major, campus, mentor preferences, hobbies and interests, and dream job. We will match you with a Wing Leader who is perfectly suited to mentor and support you. We love our Wing Leaders, and you will too!

Meet the Wing Leaders

  • aaliyah ferrell.

    Hi everyone! I鈥檓 Aaliyah, a graduating senior majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Criminology at 麻豆传媒.

    I鈥檓 involved in 4-5 different organizations and work two jobs on campus. In my free time, I enjoy concerts, playing my keyboard, listening to music, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite 麻豆传媒 memories are the Fall NPHC Greek Yard Show and meals with friends at the dining hall.

    I believe in the power of putting good energy into the universe and love helping others. As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 able to give back by supporting students in ways I needed when I was in their shoes. I鈥檓 excited to continue contributing to the 麻豆传媒 community and sharing all the opportunities available to everyone!

  • abigail mclean.

    Hello! I am Abigail and I am a senior integrated health sciences major here at 麻豆传媒. My favorite memories at 麻豆传媒 include any events when I am spending time with my friends! I love attending the events during the Week of Welcome and Homecoming Week. 

    As a Wing Leader, I am blessed to have the opportunity to help first-year students adapt to the college environment. As someone who has navigated challenges while transitioning to college, I understand at times it may be overwhelming. My goal is to provide resources, guidance, and support to help you succeed personally, academically, and socially here at 麻豆传媒. 

  • bailey spyker.
    My name is Bailey Spyker. I am a junior and am majoring in Mathematics with a concentration in statistics and minor in data science and analysis. I am a part of the Honor's college, as well. My favorite 麻豆传媒 memory is anything involving when I lived on campus my freshman year. I had so much fun, made so many amazing memories, and met some incredible people.

    As a Wing Leader, I am looking forward to connecting with first-year students while continuously making a change. The first year of college can make you feel a lot of conflicting emotions, and I am excited to be the person I could have thoroughly benefited from my freshman year. Wing Leaders are hosting and supporting a variety of events that range from academic help to good old-fashioned fun! I am here to help with anything you need, and I can't wait to meet more of you!

  • binta mccarther.
    Hello! My name is Binta McCarther, and I am a senior majoring in psychology with a minor in sociology here at 麻豆传媒. My favorite 麻豆传媒 memory would definitely have to be attending the Yard Show, where I got to experience the excitement and energy of the step performances from fraternities and sororities. It was such a fun and memorable event!

    As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 excited to connect with first-year students and help them navigate their college journey. Starting college can be overwhelming, and my goal is to be that supportive resource to help students feel at home and take full advantage of all the opportunities 麻豆传媒 offers. Whether it's guiding students to the right resources or encouraging them to attend events and make connections, I鈥檓 here to make their first year as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

    Outside of school, I love dancing, crocheting, hanging out with friends, and learning new recipes. I鈥檓 always up for trying something new and meeting new people, so don鈥檛 hesitate to say hi!

  • camille warren.

    Hi! My name is Camille Warren, and I am a fourth-year Criminal Justice and Black Studies student minoring in Criminology and African America & African Diaspora. My favorite 麻豆传媒 memory has been attending the social events partnered with Student Success Programs. I have worked in their department for 3 years helping students to find community and learn beneficial practices that are valuable in the future. 

    Being a Wing Leader, I am excited and grateful to be a helping hand for first-year & second-year students through the program to get adjusted for college. This program was a success and blessing for my first-year in college, and to have the opportunity to give students that same prospect is what drives my passion behind my work. We are a second home for our students, and I can't wait to share this experience with you as your Wing Leader! 

  • Hey Y'all
    genevieve ahey.
    ! I鈥檓 Genevieve, a second-year Management major and minoring in the President's Emerging Global Scholars cohort. I'm involved in a couple RSO's on campus namely Collegiate 100 & The Industrious Women's Network. At 麻豆传媒, I love spending time with friends, listening to music, and exploring campus events through Owl Life. As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 excited to connect with students and help them navigate college life. SSP offers incredible events that support both academic success and personal growth, and I can鈥檛 wait to be a part of that journey!
  • geovannie cuevas.

    Hello, my name is Geovanni Cuevas, and I am 3rd year Computer Science student. I am the President of ColorStack and I am the Professional Development Chair for Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the Computer Science Honor Society. My favorite experiences at 麻豆传媒 have been getting to meet new people with the same career goals and interests. Outside of school, I have strong interests in Formula 1 racing and web development!

    As a Wing Leader I have been able to connect with many first-year students and assist them with any questions whether it be academic, social, or professional! I have a ton of knowledge about the different resources and programs on campus, especially on the Marietta campus. 

  • josiah davis.

    Hello! My name is Josiah, and I am a fourth-year interaction design student minoring in technical communication here at 麻豆传媒. My favorite 麻豆传媒 memory would definitely have to be attending Anime Night last year where I got to eat some really good ramen, received a bento box, and saw so many fellow students cosplaying! 

    As a Wing Leader, what excites me is being able to provide that helping hand to first-year students that I wish I had to better acclimate to college life. We have so many programs and events that students can take advantage of to make their experience at 麻豆传媒 memorable and enjoyable, which is my main goal as a Wing Leader!

  • lyndsay alexis.

    Hey everyone! I鈥檓 Lyndsay, a Criminal Justice major with a double minor in Criminology and Sociology. Currently a Junior, I鈥檓 on track to graduate in Spring 2026, with plans to attend Law School in Fall 2026 and pursue a career in International Law.

    Beyond the classroom, I stay actively involved in student life through Sowers of Knowledge, French Club, and the Caribbean Student Association鈥攑roudly representing my Haitian heritage. I love being part of these organizations because they provide amazing opportunities to connect, grow, and build lifelong friendships.

    Being a Wing Leader is truly a privilege. I strive to empower my mentees, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones while knowing they have a strong support system behind them. I understand the challenges of navigating new experiences, but together, we can create an environment where everyone feels comfortable, confident, and ready to thrive! Looking forward to an amazing journey with all of you! 

  • malina patel.
    Hey, Owls! My name is Malina Patel, and I am a junior honors student majoring in Finance with a minor in Human Resources Management. Some of my hobbies include traveling, baking, making jewelry, and, most importantly, spending time with my friends and family! One of my favorite things here at 麻豆传媒 is all of the fun and exciting events they have to offer. My favorite event is Stuff-an-Owl, which occurs during the first week of every semester!

    As a Wing Leader, what excites me the most is being able to help freshmen navigate their transition into college life. Whether it is sharing tips and tricks, answering questions, or just being a friendly face on campus, I want to make sure you have the resources and support you need to thrive. Welcome to the Nest! I can鈥檛 wait to help you along this new journey!

  • nancy martinez.
    Hi! My name is Nancy Samayoa-Martinez, and I am a fourth-year accounting student at 麻豆传媒. One of my favorite moments at 麻豆传媒 must have been when I took part in D铆a de Los Muertos with HOLA. I helped with setting up and was so moved by how many people came together to celebrate and remember their loved ones. It was such a heartwarming experience that made me feel connected to my roots, and I loved seeing everyone come together in such a meaningful way.

    As a Wing Leader, I am especially excited to offer the kind of support I wish I had when I first got to 麻豆传媒. College was never something I thought I would pursue, and I know it can feel overwhelming without the right support. That鈥檚 why I am passionate about helping first-year students navigate this new chapter. Through Student Success Programs, I have discovered all the amazing resources 麻豆传媒 has to offer, and I want to make sure others do too! My goal is to make every student feel welcomed, supported, and ready to make their 麻豆传媒 experience both unforgettable and fun!

  • norma camacho.

    Hi! My name is Norma, and I am a senior majoring in public relations with a sociology minor. One of my favorite memories at 麻豆传媒 is when the men's basketball team beat Rutgers. The Convo was so packed and the energy in there was amazing, so unforgettable. 

    What excites me the most about being a wing leader is the ability to connect with various students and help them with any questions that arise during their first year. I love yapping and listening. I am so excited to meet everyone! 

  • victor rodriguez.
    My name is Victor Rodriguez, and I鈥檓 a third-year Mechanical Engineering student with a minor in Mechatronics. One of my most memorable experiences at 麻豆传媒 was participating in Stomp Out Violence to help raise awareness about domestic violence鈥攁n event that truly made an impact on me.

    As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 thrilled to meet and connect with so many talented individuals. Helping new students find their place on campus and making their transition smoother is something I genuinely enjoy. Be sure to join us at our events to meet me and my fellow Wing Leaders鈥攚e have an exciting semester planned for you all! I can鈥檛 wait to see you there.

  • jaid clough.

    Hello! My name is Jaid. I鈥檓 a third-year computer science major concentrating in cyber security and minoring in interactive design. I am currently in the Journey Honors College and like to spend my time obsessing over Greek Mythology. 

    As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 excited to meet new people and help 麻豆传媒 first-years as they get acclimated to the campus and college life. College can be challenging, and I want to be able to help as many people as possible. As a Wing Leader, I plan to host events to get first-year students more active in campus life and to make their transition as easy as possible.

  • triniti gray.
    Hello! My name is Triniti Gray, and I am a junior here at 麻豆传媒 majoring in Marketing. I am also a part of the Double Owl program working towards getting my MBA. I am excited to be a Wing Leader because it gives me the opportunity to connect with my peers and help them along their academic journey. College can be challenging, but my goal is to provide support and guidance to help first-year students feel confident and set up for success. Whether it鈥檚 answering questions, offering advice, or simply being a friendly face on campus, I want to make sure students know they are not alone in this experience.
  • ethan kessie.

    Hi! My name is Ethan Kessie. I am a third-year Mechanical Engineering major at 麻豆传媒. One of my favorite 麻豆传媒 memories was hosting a gingerbread house-building event through Student Success Programs. At this event, students were able to relax and connect with their peers after a stressful exam season.

    When it was my first year, I was lucky enough to have peer mentors from Student Success Programs who provided me guidance throughout my college career. They helped me join programs such as Undergraduate Research and complete the coveted Scrappy's Bucket List. As a Wing Leader, I hope to empower students as much as I was during my first year.

  • bianca lafond.

    Hi! My name is Bianca, I'm a junior majoring in Exercise Science. One of my favorite memories at 麻豆传媒 was attending my first basketball game. I had so much fun cheering on our team, spending time with friends, and getting to experience the energy and excitement of the game. 

    As a Wing Leader, I鈥檓 most excited about being a resource and mentor for students. With so many amazing programs, events, and opportunities on campus, my goal is to help students find their place, build connections, and make the most of their time here.

  • helena patino cruz.

    Hi! My name is Helena and I am a third-year studying software engineering here at 麻豆传媒. During my first year, I became the Communications Lead for Girls Who Code and also founded a new club called ColorStack. I鈥檓 excited to help students make the best out of their academic career! 

    A few fun things about me are I love watching new movies, tv shows, and YouTube analyses about them! I also enjoy reading, knitting, cooking for my family, and walking around new places!

  • olivia ruiz.

    Hello! My name is Olivia Ruiz and I'm a junior majoring in English with a minor in professional writing here at Kennesaw State. One of my fondest 麻豆传媒 memories is spending afternoons in the university's beautiful library, discovering new authors, and getting lost in captivating stories. The atmosphere of learning and exploration always inspires me.

    As a Wing Leader, I'm excited to support first-year students as they transition into college life. I remember the challenges of my freshman year and how important it was to have a helping hand. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. We have an array of programs and events designed to make your time at 麻豆传媒 unforgettable, and I am thrilled to be part of your journey!