GS Resident Advisors (RAs) provide support to all GS students living in Columbia Residential housing by serving as peer resources and facilitating a positive living and academic environment. Through passive and active programming represented within the below initiatives, RAs provide opportunities for support, social networking, and citizenship development, serve as a resource to help students manage housing concerns including roommate issues and facilities questions, and provide guidance on better navigating Columbia and New York City.
- Develop a sense of community among residents
- Build relationships with residents in the community, and assist residents in developing relationships with each other
- Educate residents on the policies and procedures of GS Housing and Columbia Residential
- Hold residents accountable for their behavior
- Promote student involvement in University activities
- Facilitate an environment that fosters academic success
- Provide helping skills for residents in need
Resources
Meet the Resident Advisors
Please feel free to email us to learn more about monthly resident events or just to say hi.
Sai Sai Han Hark
Hi! I'm Sai Sai. I spent three years in medical school in Myanmar (Burma) with the dream of becoming a doctor. Unfortunately, the political turmoil and military coup disrupted my studies. Thanks to the support of my foster family, I was able to relocate to New York and continue my education. I decided to start a new chapter by changing my major. I studied business administration at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) before transferring to Columbia University. I also had the opportunity to study global innovation in Tokyo for a semester and participate in youth development programs in Thailand, Cambodia, and Japan. I worked as a resident assistant, a public speaking tutor, and a mentor at BMCC. In my free time, I love biking and watching crime documentaries. I truly enjoy engaging with people, listening to their stories, and building new connections. I'm really excited to meet all of the residents, so please feel free to reach out!
Melanie Laporte
Hi everyone! I’m Melanie Laporte, an artist studying Visual Arts and African American Studies. I grew up in Michigan, lived between Tulsa and Washington D.C., then spent years living and traveling around the globe - from Hawaii, where I danced hula, to Europe, South East Asia, and Mexico. I've had a few different careers and I've come to believe that starting over isn't starting from scratch; it's just another way of becoming who you really want to be.
On any given weekend, you'll find me at a gallery opening, building a business, exploring New York City, or deep in my skincare routine (ask me about my current rotation). As your RA, I want to be someone who listens, brings people together, and helps you find your way when things feel unfamiliar, because home isn't about how big the room is; it's about who you share it with. I'm so excited to be a resource, a familiar face, and a friend, and I can't wait to meet you all!
Glenn Paul
Hi everyone! I was born and raised in Singapore, and I am majoring in Sociology where my research focuses on third spaces and culture. Before coming to New York, I served two years in Singapore’s Naval Diving Unit, then backpacked solo across Europe, learning a lot about myself (including how bad I am with directions). On weekends, you’ll find me listening to house music, exploring new food spots, watching theatre, or working out. Having lived in close quarters: from Army Bunks to European Hostels; I’ve come to believe that tight spaces can be the most powerful catalysts for community. That’s why I’m so excited to be your RA: as an international student, I know feeling at home isn’t about square footage but about building shared memories and meaningful connections. I love bringing people together, whether it’s a themed party, a casual hangout, or a spirited debate about Japanese Butoh theatre or unlikely food combos (orange juice and espresso, anyone?). My inbox is always open, and my Spotify recs are just an email away.
Mia Kaden
Hey everyone! My name is Mia Kaden and I grew up in Tel Aviv, Israel. Prior to my GS life, I was a short term au-pair abroad, before moving to NYC to pursue a lifelong dream and attend a drama conservatory. Being an RA there, I realized how meaningful it is to have a home far away from home. At drama school, I also discovered my passion for storytelling that extends beyond embodiment: writing, directing, filmmaking, and everything in-between stage and camera. While many of my peers started auditioning, I decided I’m not done with my education. I deeply desired a well rounded liberal arts education that will allow me to explore ideas and discover new interests. I transferred to Columbia University to pursue my bachelor’s in Film and Media, and have found my place with the Hillel of the university, being involved with my Jewish community as a student leader. As an RA, I’m passionate about the growth of the unmatched GS community. I prioritize fostering a safe space for students in the beautiful chaos of Columbia University.
Jack Eaton
Hi everyone! My name is Jack, and I'm a Political Science major at Columbia University pursuing a Special Concentration in Business Management. Before coming to Columbia, I served in the U.S. Army, an experience that taught me the value of leadership, resilience, and fostering strong communities. When I'm not studying, you'll probably find me working out, exploring New York City's museums, or trying new restaurants (please share your Beli recommendations!). I have traveled to many places around the world and recently returned from Columbia's Summer in Paris Program, I always enjoy swapping travel stories and learning about other people's favorite destinations and, of course, food dishes. I'm excited to serve as your Resident Advisor this year and look forward to creating a welcoming community where everyone feels supported, connected, and at home. Whether you have a question, need a resource, or just want to chat, don't hesitate to reach out—I can't wait to meet you!
Mehdi Shakibapour
My name is Mehdi (pronounced Meh-Dee), and I’m an international student from Iran majoring in Computer Science and Math. After leaving Iran in 2023, it took two years of adapting and finding my footing before I found my place at Columbia GS. Because non-traditional students face unique hurdles fitting into environments not built for us, creating inclusive spaces is something deeply personal to me. It’s what drives my work as an E-board member of the GS Business Society, and it’s how I’ve built my own community here through sunset runs and late-night hackathons. That desire to build community is what excites me about being an RA! My goal is to help each of you discover what home means here at Columbia, and ensure you feel supported every step of the way. Drop by anytime to challenge me to chess, trade movie recs, or learn Hokm (a Persian card game)!
Arham Ahmed
Hi everyone! I am Arham Ahmed, a junior at Columbia University’s School of General Studies studying Political Science. On campus, I work at Columbia’s Office of the Registrar and enjoy finding ways to connect with and support my fellow students. Originally from Chittagong, Bangladesh, I am passionate about international affairs, technology policy, and community engagement. In 2018, I founded the Chittagong Rohingya Initiative, organizing outreach and fundraising efforts to support Rohingya refugees, and I have also dedicated over 300 hours to teaching disadvantaged children mathematics, science, and English. Outside of academics, I love discovering new coffee shops, browsing bookstores, and reading—my favorite place to study on campus is the Reading Room in Burke Library. I am always up for a good conversation, a new book recommendation, or an excuse to explore a new corner of New York!
Ace Archibald
Hi everyone! My name is Ace, and I am thrilled to be your new Columbia GS Resident Advisor. Originally from New York City with roots in the Dominican Republic. I love playing football, helping people, the beach, catching UFC fights, listening to Bad Bunny, and old school reggaeton. My journey has been shaped by a diverse set of experiences—from volunteering at Blythedale, assisting children with disabilities, and non-profits like Changing The Present, to roles in property management at College Suites helping students just like you, outstanding unforgettable moments and events with Premier, and my deep passion of real estate with R New York now helping all kinds of people find a home.
Along the way I’ve learned that the richest parts of life come from the connections we make, and the challenges we overcome. I’ve faced my own share of hurdles, which have taught me the profound value of having a home, resilience, and integrity. These lessons drive my commitment to you. I believe that our diversity is our greatest strength, and that we are at our best when we support one another. I believe that our greatest lessons are our own experiences––which create wisdom.
As your RA, my goal is to help you navigate your own unique path at Columbia. I am here to listen, advocate, and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. My door is always open. It is an honor to be part of this outstanding community, and I cannot wait to meet you all––as we follow our dreams. Welcome to Columbia, and welcome Home!"