Informatics Peer Advisors
Get advice on the Informatics program from current students (see the Advising & Support page for current hours). 2022-23 peer advisors include:
Sirena Akopyan
Junior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I love helping people in any way that I can :)"
How do you hope to use your Informatics degree: "I am interested in pursuing project management."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Take risks! If you are afraid approaching someone will be awkward or that you might get rejected after applying to something, you will not just avoid 'bad' outcomes, but the good ones as well!"
Drew Grimstead
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "To give advice I wish I knew as a freshman."
How do you hope to use your Informatics degree: "I'm interested in going into cybersecurity/product management!"
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Find the work you enjoy doing the most if you want to stay motivated. It is hard to stand out if you don't like what you do."
Jiani Huang
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I want to give back to the Informatics community & help support prospective and current Informatics students."
How do you hope to use your Informatics degree: "I am an aspiring UI/UX designer hoping to bridge the gap between technology and humans."
One piece of advice: "Just show yourself in the essay and don't worry about not being able to take advanced classes before applying to the major!!"
Deanna Ton
Junior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I wanted to become a peer advisor because I wanted to help students guide their way through the UW. I went through hardships before coming into the Informatics program, and I want to help those who may also be."
How do you hope to use your Informatics degree: "I hope to become a technical program manager."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "My piece of advice would be is don't be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions can open up many doors and opportunities for your success and create more meaningful relationships."
Vivian Yu
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I want to be a peer advisor because I was once struggling to find resources, and I hope to help students who are like me."
How do you hope to use your Informatics degree: "I would like to go into Frontend and Data Science."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Step out of your comfort zone and seize every opportunity to learn and grow!"