Rina Mistrioty joined us as a WISCIENCE Peer Leader in spring 2025. Peer Leaders are undergraduate students who support their peers in WISCIENCE programs and courses while learning valuable leadership skills. Find out more about Rina!
Pronouns: She/her
Major: Biology
Peer Leader for: Exploring Biology (INTEGSCI 100)
Hometown: Brookfield, WI
If you could choose anyone for a mentor, who would it be?
Alex Morgan
What is your favorite place on campus?
The Terrace at Memorial Union!
What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I am a volunteer at UW Health in the children’s general care unit, a member of the Pre-Dental Society, Bucky Volunteer Association, and Global Dental Brigades
What do you like most about Madison?
I love the balance between having a great social scene and being in a very strong, reputable academic environment at the same time!
What are your favorite snacks for a study session?
Fresh-cut fruit or some candy!
What is an academic accomplishment that you are proud of?
Engaging in upper-level STEM courses, strengthening my analytical and problem-solving skills through challenging lab work and research-based assignments.
What are you looking forward to about being a peer leader this semester?
This semester, I’m most looking forward to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for students exploring biology. I’m excited to help others develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, not just by providing answers, but by encouraging curiosity and critical thinking.
I also look forward to growing as a mentor and improving my ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. Collaborating with other peer leaders and faculty will be an incredible opportunity to exchange insights and refine my teaching skills. Most importantly, I’m eager to foster a sense of community where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring their academic interests with confidence.
What sparked your interest in STEM?
Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve been naturally curious about how things work. One of my earliest memories of STEM was a science fair project where I built a solar-powered oven using a pizza box to make s’mores. That project sparked my love for hands-on problem-solving and showed me the power of science in everyday life. Since then, my curiosity has only grown, driving me to explore new ideas, ask questions, and seek out ways to understand the world around me.
What is your vision for life after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to take a gap year to travel and gain new experiences while applying to dental school. Exploring different cultures and perspectives will not only be a meaningful personal experience but also help me grow in ways that will shape my future career. During this time, I also hope to continue engaging in hands-on learning, whether through shadowing, volunteering, or research opportunities related to dentistry and healthcare.
Meet the rest of the WISCIENCE Peer Leaders.
Learn more about the WISCIENCE Peer Leader program.