Informatics Peer Advisors
Get advice on the Informatics program from current students (see the Advising & Support page for current hours). 2023-24 peer advisors include:
Sirena Akopyan (she/her)
Junior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I have been involved with the iSchool a lot since I was a freshman direct admit and have been on IUGA for three years. During my time working with the iSchool, I noticed there are so many resources our staff are providing that students do not know about. I want to help our students tap into those resources. :)"
Interests: "Lately, I have been very interested in learning different languages. Currently, I am learning Armenian on my own through reading literature and taking Russian classes at UW. Another hobby I have picked up again since middle school has been playing the piano."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "My advice would be never to compare yourself to any other student, no matter how tempting it is. Many students feel the need to do an internship or take extra classes just because they see their friends doing so. However, you never know what that person could be struggling with. Maybe they are taking 4 difficult classes and failing all of them. These situations happen more often than you think. Being successful is a lot more than how fast you can graduate or get an internship - as long as you are working hard to be better than you were yesterday, you are doing great."
Aliya Ali (she/her)
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I chose to become a peer advisor because I'm passionate about helping students better navigate the Informatics major, so they can have a smooth and enjoyable experience that sets them up for success."
Interests: "In terms of my academic and career interests, I'm particularly passionate about two areas within Informatics: data science and UI/UX design. On a more personal note, I like art, crafts, fashion, and reading."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Make sure to have a good balance between academics and personal life so you don't experience burnout. Also, try your best to network as much as you can whether it's through joining clubs or attending events like career fairs."
Jake Harper (he/him)
Junior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "After two years at UW, I get how college can sometimes throw you curveballs—things can get confusing or tough, real quick. That's why I want to be a peer advisor. I want to be that go-to person students can chat with when they're feeling stuck or overwhelmed. My aim is to be a good listener and to ask the right questions that help folks sort through whatever's on their mind."
Interests: "Snowboarding, DJ'ing, Building Websites, Biking, Photography."
One piece of advice: "As students, we get a lot of emails. You might be tempted just to ignore them, but my advice? Don't. Especially in a field like Informatics, you never know when an email might contain that perfect opportunity. Even if it feels like a hassle, take a minute to skim through. Who knows, your next big break could be hiding in there."
Melanie Kuo (she/her)
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I chose to become a peer advisor because I love working with students! Being an Informatics PA allows me to use my experiences to advise students as they navigate this program."
Interests: "I love baking, reading, film photography, and trying new coffee shops!"
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Embrace asking for help! Your TAs, professors, and advisors are rooting for you to succeed, and are there for you as a resource for when you have questions or need assistance."
Brandon Mendoza (he/him)
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I'm passionate about mentorship, especially professional and leadership development."
Interests: "Coffee making (follow my coffee IG: @brandondrinkscoffee), language learning, and going to the beach!"
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "If you're scared of trying something new, remember that the biggest risk you'll take is the first step!"
Deanna Ton
Senior
Why did you become a peer advisor: "I wanted to become a peer advisor because I understand the difficulty in working through the admission process and navigating the program, so I want to be able to help other students navigate their student experience with less stress! :)"
Interests: "Product management, information architecture, cooking, working out, going to the beach or lake."
What’s one piece of advice you have for Informatics students: "Make the most of your group projects and reach out to your peers, TAs, and faculty!"