69É«ÇéƬ

At UA, you’ll always have someone in your corner.

Through real stories from students and their mentors, MentorZip highlights the support network that makes UA a place where every Zip thrives — whether it’s a professor igniting a passion for research or an upperclassman helping a first-year student find their path.

Be inspired as we showcase impactful mentorship stories that prove one thing. Here, success isn’t a solo journey — it's powered by mentorship, guidance and a community that truly cares.

As the first in her Nepalese family to graduate high school, Anisha Gurung carried both pride and pressure on her shoulders. Higher education had always been her dream, but the reality of financial struggles and family expectations made that dream feel distant. The expectations in her household were clear — after high school, work came first. College was a luxury, not a necessity.

Still, Gurung weighed her options.

“I wasn’t sure about my purpose or if I was on the right path. I wasn’t sure if I could go to college because of financial challenges,” Gurung recalled. “There were a lot of expectations from my family for me to start working right away instead of pursuing higher education.”

Determined to carve out her own future, she applied for scholarships and filled out the FAFSA alongside her peers at North High School. Her persistence paid off — she was accepted to The University of 69É«ÇéƬ (UA) to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, supported by financial aid.

Even with her acceptance letter in hand, uncertainty lingered. Would she find the guidance and support she needed to thrive in college?

Her transition was eased by joining the College of Business’ Summer Leadership Academy. By the time most first-year students arrived on campus, she had already built a sense of belonging and confidence.

Still, something was missing — a mentor.

A blossoming relationship

It was around that time when she met Sydney Chinchanachokchai, Ph.D., an associate professor of marketing with a passion for teaching and mentorship.

“I wasn’t sure about my purpose or if I was on the right path. I used to be very shy and didn’t talk much,” said Gurung. “Having a mentor to talk through my personal and academic challenges helped me stay focused.”

The pair first encountered each other when Chinchanachokchai passed Gurung working as a student assistant at UA’s Taylor Institute for Direct Marketing and noticed a reserved student looking for encouragement. After several brief interactions, Gurung approached her with a request — she needed to interview someone in the business world for an assignment. Chinchanachokchai gladly assisted and, from that moment, their mentor-mentee relationship began.

Dr. Sydney Chinchanachokchai (left) and Anisha Gurung (right) have developed a strong relationship that has resulted in success.

As a non-native English speaker, Gurung faced challenges with communication, networking and navigating academia. Chinchanachokchai recognized her potential and took her under her wing, offering both guidance and tough love to help her grow.

“I realized she needed someone to help guide her and support her goals,” said Chinchanachokchai. “She kept coming back to me, which showed me she was dedicated and eager to grow. I love teaching, and I love making an impact through mentoring students. That’s how I feel I can truly make a difference in someone’s life.”

Breaking out of her shell

A pivotal moment came when Gurung was selected to represent UA at a national academic conference in Tampa, Fla., where she presented her research on examining factors that influence refugees’ well-being, specifically perceived cultural distance and social support. This research stemmed from her own background and her desire to contribute to her community as well as Chinchanachokchai’s interests in well-being among vulnerable populations.

It was Gurung’s first major academic experience, and the prospect of speaking before accomplished scholars felt overwhelming. Watching other students present helped build her confidence, and by the time she started presenting, she was claiming her place.

“The experience made me realize I have a voice and something valuable to contribute,” she said. “Doing research, gaining real-world experience and having on-campus jobs gave me a sense of direction. I have a purpose and know that I can achieve great things. The willingness of faculty to go beyond just teaching — they truly care about students' success.”

Returning from the conference, Gurung was transformed with confidence and experience. Chinchanachokchai saw it too — Gurung had stepped into her potential, fully embracing the opportunities around her. She even went on to represent UA at another national conference in Washington, D.C.

“This reinforced my belief that I can make an impact on a student’s life,” said Chinchanachokchai. “I believe in paying it forward, and Anisha now has the ability to inspire and mentor others in her community.”

Creating a ripple effect

Now, Gurung is empowering others by actively supporting other Nepalese students at UA, ensuring they experience the same sense of belonging she once sought. She aspires to inspire and mentor others, just as Chinchanachokchai did for her.

For prospective students wondering if they will find the support they need, Gurung’s journey stands as evidence that mentorship at The University of 69É«ÇéƬ goes beyond academic guidance. The relationships built here empower students to thrive both personally and professionally.

“Having someone to listen and guide you through challenges makes all the difference,” said Gurung. “It’s about more than just academics; it’s about growing personally and professionally. I’d like to get a job in marketing where I can support communities. I hope to be a role model for my younger sisters and support them in their education.”

Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd@uakron.edu.