Mentees

We welcome our 2025 Cohort

Carlos Formoso

I am Carlos Formoso, majoring in Biomedical Engineering and Math, and I am from Caracas, Venezuela. My academic interests span both applied and theoretical math. At SLU, I’ve been working under Dr. Elodie Pozzi on the Invariant Subspace Problem, applying tools from complex analysis to infinite-dimensional operators. Additionally, I contribute to research in biomedical engineering under Dr. Natasha Case, focusing on cartilage tissue and regenerative engineering. Outside of research, I serve as Vice President of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and as Public Relations Representative for the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM). I recharge by reading, practicing yoga, and traveling.

Sophia Huang

My name is Sophia Huang, and I am a sophomore double majoring in computer science and engineering. I have always been fascinated by the broad applications of computer science and mathematics; I believe that this program provides the perfect opportunity to explore this interest alongside peers and mentors. I’m very excited to join the Mentoring Math Minds Program!

Moditha Lekkela

My name is Moditha, and I am a graduate student at Saint Louis University pursuing my Master’s in Computer Science. I have a strong passion for mathematics and l’ve applied concepts like matrix multiplication and integration in real-world projects. One of my most impactful experiences was working on the UNESCO Live-in-Labs project, where I collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to solve real-world challenges through data-driven solutions. I joined the MMM program to share my enthusiasm for math and to help others see its power in both theory and practice. In my free time, I enjoy exploring new AI tools and building practical solutions using machine learning.

Francis Kalhorn

My name is Francis Kalhorn, and I am currently a 2nd year student at Saint Louis Community College, where I am working towards my associate degree in Science. I have always had a passion for mathematics, and I seek to achieve my PhD. in mathematics in the future. My interests span many mathematical fields, however I am currently very interested in studying differential geometry. I joined the MMM program to further my lifelong goals of helping people learn math and sharing my enthusiasm for the field with others. Outside of academics, I am nearing the completion of my Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts of America, and I currently serve as the Vice President of Program for the Venturing portion of Greater St. Louis Area Council Scouting, where I facilitate some of the largest Venturing events in the nation. I look forward to participating in the Mentoring Math Minds Program!

Ruoshui Li

Hello everyone, my name is Ruoshui Li, and I am a first-year master’s student in mathematics. I have been studying in the United States since high school, and I completed both high school and my undergraduate studies in Connecticut. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in mathematics, and during my time at SLU and in the MMM program, I hope to explore which areas of mathematics I would like to focus on for my future research. At the moment, my strongest interest is in algebra, but I am also eager to learn about other areas, especially those with strong potential for future development. For example, I would be excited to study mathematical fields that could contribute to advancements in artificial intelligence. What I enjoy most about mathematics is that it involves thinking about objective truths through precise language and rigorous logic. This is one of the main reasons I am so passionate about the subject.