Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisors
Khoury Career Peer Advisors (CPAs), are student peer advisors that were hired to assist Khoury Graduate students across the Northeastern network in their career preparation. These students have extensive experience, having worked in tech prior to beginning their programs and/or having been on one or more co-op/internship work experiences as a part of their program of study. They are passionate about mentoring and assisting their fellow students in career planning and preparation.
How can CPAs assist you?
CPAs have weekly hours on their calendars available for appointments on the following:
- General Career Advising and Discussions
- Co-op/Career Preparation
- Networking and LinkedIn
- Resumé
- Mock Behavioral and Technical Interviewing
In addition to providing one-on-one services, CPAs support the Khoury graduate population by assisting student groups with career preparation events, Align student recruitment, leading Align Bridge career preparation series workshops, data reporting, and they develop a variety of materials to share across the Khoury network.
You can set up a meeting with a Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor on Navigate (you can set up an appointment with any CPA regardless of campus location!).
If you have questions regarding the Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor program, please contact Dr. Thea Celestine (t.celestine@northeastern.edu).
Khoury Career Peer Advisors (CPAs), are student peer advisors that were hired to assist Khoury Graduate students across the Northeastern network in their career preparation. These students have extensive experience, having worked in tech prior to beginning their programs and/or having been on one or more co-op/internship work experiences as a part of their program of study. They are passionate about mentoring and assisting their fellow students in career planning and preparation.
How can CPAs assist you?
CPAs have weekly hours on their calendars available for appointments on the following:
- General Career Advising and Discussions
- Co-op/Career Preparation
- Networking and LinkedIn
- Resumé
- Mock Behavioral and Technical Interviewing
In addition to providing one-on-one services, CPAs support the Khoury graduate population by assisting student groups with career preparation events, Align student recruitment, leading Align Bridge career preparation series workshops, data reporting, and they develop a variety of materials to share across the Khoury network.
You can set up a meeting with a Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor on Navigate (you can set up an appointment with any CPA regardless of campus location!).
If you have questions regarding the Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor program, please contact Dr. Thea Celestine (t.celestine@northeastern.edu).
Khoury Career Peer Advisors (CPAs), are student peer advisors that were hired to assist Khoury Graduate students across the Northeastern network in their career preparation. These students have extensive experience, having worked in tech prior to beginning their programs and/or having been on one or more co-op/internship work experiences as a part of their program of study. They are passionate about mentoring and assisting their fellow students in career planning and preparation.
How can CPAs assist you?
CPAs have weekly hours on their calendars available for appointments on the following:
- General Career Advising and Discussions
- Co-op/Career Preparation
- Networking and LinkedIn
- Resumé
- Mock Behavioral and Technical Interviewing
In addition to providing one-on-one services, CPAs support the Khoury graduate population by assisting student groups with career preparation events, Align student recruitment, leading Align Bridge career preparation series workshops, data reporting, and they develop a variety of materials to share across the Khoury network.
You can set up a meeting with a Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor on Navigate (you can set up an appointment with any CPA regardless of campus location!).
If you have questions regarding the Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor program, please contact Dr. Thea Celestine (t.celestine@northeastern.edu).
Khoury Career Peer Advisors (CPAs), are student peer advisors that were hired to assist Khoury Graduate students across the Northeastern network in their career preparation. These students have extensive experience, having worked in tech prior to beginning their programs and/or having been on one or more co-op/internship work experiences as a part of their program of study. They are passionate about mentoring and assisting their fellow students in career planning and preparation.
How can CPAs assist you?
CPAs have weekly hours on their calendars available for appointments on the following:
- General Career Advising and Discussions
- Co-op/Career Preparation
- Networking and LinkedIn
- Resumé
- Mock Behavioral and Technical Interviewing
In addition to providing one-on-one services, CPAs support the Khoury graduate population by assisting student groups with career preparation events, Align student recruitment, leading Align Bridge career preparation series workshops, data reporting, and they develop a variety of materials to share across the Khoury network.
You can set up a meeting with a Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor on Navigate (you can set up an appointment with any CPA regardless of campus location!).
If you have questions regarding the Khoury Graduate Career Peer Advisor program, please contact Dr. Thea Celestine (t.celestine@northeastern.edu).
Armaan Sait (he/his) (Portland)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hey Huskies, as a current student in the final year of the MSCS direct program, I bring a unique blend of academic excellence and professional experience to the role of career peer advisor. Prior to my graduate studies, I served as a data engineer at Tiger Analytics for two years, honing my technical skills and gaining valuable industry insights. Also, I am interning at Vantage Risk, further strengthening my practical knowledge, and understanding of the field. This diverse background equips me with the expertise to effectively guide and support fellow students in their career journeys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and assist them in navigating their paths towards internships & full-time employment opportunities. Empowering others and sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them achieve their career goals is a source of great fulfillment for me.
How I can help
I offer comprehensive support in various areas, including resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conducting mock interviews. For students on F1 visas, I can provide guidance on structuring their resumés effectively to highlight their unique strengths and qualifications. Also, I will help identify potential internship opportunities and provide valuable resources and tips to prepare for technical and non-technical interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
The journey towards securing internships or full-time positions can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key. I encourage you to actively network, highlight your skills, and have confidence in your potential. Remember, each rejection or setback brings you one step closer to success. Embrace the process and know that I am here to support you every step of the way. With dedication and the right guidance, the perfect opportunity is within your reach.
Hailing (Helen) Hu (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the Align MSCS program in 2021, I worked as a State Farm multi-line agent and completed my graduate certificate in software design and development at the University of Washington. I worked as a full-time SDET at Microsoft.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I have volunteered for alums and peer mentoring programs at the University of Washington since 2021. I helped a first-year student to get her first internship with my connection in 2022. Also, I have helped people around me with their resumé/LinkedIn profile reviews, mock interviews, networking, and offer negotiation. Witnessing their growth and success reaffirmed my passion for supporting others in their professional development.
How I can help
Build networking and LinkedIn/GitHub profile effectively, resumé/personal statement review, mock interviews (technical and behavioral questions), or anything related to your career navigation.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
You’re on a journey of growth and discovery. Embrace the challenges and take them as opportunities that come your way. It is ok to feel uncertain about certain things. We are here to help and support you as you navigate your career path.
Zihan Xu (he/his) (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the MSCS program, I was a technical consultant for the Erie County Department of Environmental and Planning. I earned a master of sustainability leadership from the University at Buffalo. Last summer I did a software development engineer internship for the Amazon AWS AuroraDB team. And this spring I did a co-op for Zambezi Animal Welfare Services as a web engineer.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
At Northeastern, my identity positively influenced my experiences by connecting me with a diverse group of peers who broadened my understanding of various challenges and successes. Learning about my classmates’ efforts to transition to new fields, I saw how some struggled with their decisions and the demands of succeeding in a competitive tech market. While these challenges sometimes cast a shadow over our achievements, they also fostered resilience. To encourage students facing similar transitions, I would highlight their accomplishments and courage, reminding them of their progress, like successfully completing rigorous bridge courses, or praising their bravery in making significant life changes to join this program.
How I can help
I can offer support with resumé improvement, job hunting assistance, and mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Unlike people with various backgrounds (science-related majors, done CS courses previously, no need for sponsorship, first semester with 700+ leetcode records, etc.), I literally have no buffer for this new field of study. If I can achieve something, I am sure you can get it too, and that’s why I am here to help you.
Yaqun Deng (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hello fellow Huskies! I am currently in my final year of the CS Align program, making strides to bridge my business background with the dynamic realm of technology. In my journey, I have had the privilege of interning with industry giants such as SAP, where I honed my skills as a full-stack developer, and Nokia, where I delved into the intricacies of backend development. The prospect of making a meaningful impact in the technical field has fueled my passion, and I am eagerly seeking both a return offer and exciting full-time opportunities. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my unique background to guide and assist fellow students in their career journeys as a Career Peer Advisor.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to guide students in their pursuit of internships and full-time jobs. Having been in their shoes, I empathize with the challenges they may face and the importance of having a supportive guide during this critical phase. I vividly recall the invaluable assistance I received from peer advisors, colleagues, and classmates, and I am eager to pay it forward
How I can help
Especially for international students under an F-1 visa, I can provide guidance on structuring and tailoring your resume to effectively showcase your skills and experiences. I can also help you explore different career paths and personalized study plan within the tech industry based on your interests and skills. I will assist in identifying potential internship opportunities and provide resources and tips for preparing for technical or nontechnical mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Finding jobs is challenging. Sometimes all you can do is to keep going and never give up. If you have applied for numerous positions without hearing back or encountered obstacles in the interview process, remember that your worth is not determined by these moments. Rejections and setbacks are part of the process, but each one brings you closer to success. I am with you.
Rhea Qiu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Currently enrolled in the Align MSCS Program, I bring a background in product management following my graduation from the University of Toronto. Transitioning into computer science, I have undertaken a few different software engineering internships to further develop my skills.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am excited for the opportunity to share my own experiences and knowledge, while also learning from the experiences of fellow students. Additionally, I look forward to assisting students in navigating their job search process, offering guidance, and providing valuable perspectives to support their career journey.
How I can help
I can assist with resumé reviews, mock interviews, general advice, and guidance.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Stay confident, trust the process, and embrace the journey. Dive in wholeheartedly and give it your all. Remember good things take time, but rest assured, things will work out for you.
Shu “Susie” Xu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Previously, I majored in law with 2 years of education law experience in Palo Alto.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
The rewarding aspect of being a CPA is the opportunity to engage with diverse students, aiding in their career design and fostering continuous learning, as well as learning from different students and helping them learn more about career design.
How I can help
I offer support in resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conduct mock interviews. Let me help you present your best self professionally.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Persist with resilience. Network, showcase your skills, and believe in your potential. The right opportunity is on the horizon.
Chenru Wu (he/his) (Vancouver)
Current Program & Previous Experience
I am in the Align MS in Computer Science program. Previously, I worked in system/engineering co-op roles at Generac Grid Services and completed an internship at Ansys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I find fulfillment in guiding peers who, like me, initially felt confused when venturing into the computer science field.
How I can help
I can offer guidance based on my experiences, ranging from navigating job searches to preparing for your first co-op in tech. I can also provide insights into working in industries, particularly within engineering backgrounds.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Embrace the possibility of setbacks, but never embrace the idea of giving up.
Armaan Sait (he/his) (Portland)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hey Huskies, as a current student in the final year of the MSCS direct program, I bring a unique blend of academic excellence and professional experience to the role of career peer advisor. Prior to my graduate studies, I served as a data engineer at Tiger Analytics for two years, honing my technical skills and gaining valuable industry insights. Also, I am interning at Vantage Risk, further strengthening my practical knowledge, and understanding of the field. This diverse background equips me with the expertise to effectively guide and support fellow students in their career journeys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and assist them in navigating their paths towards internships & full-time employment opportunities. Empowering others and sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them achieve their career goals is a source of great fulfillment for me.
How I can help
I offer comprehensive support in various areas, including resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conducting mock interviews. For students on F1 visas, I can provide guidance on structuring their resumés effectively to highlight their unique strengths and qualifications. Also, I will help identify potential internship opportunities and provide valuable resources and tips to prepare for technical and non-technical interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
The journey towards securing internships or full-time positions can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key. I encourage you to actively network, highlight your skills, and have confidence in your potential. Remember, each rejection or setback brings you one step closer to success. Embrace the process and know that I am here to support you every step of the way. With dedication and the right guidance, the perfect opportunity is within your reach.
Hailing (Helen) Hu (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the Align MSCS program in 2021, I worked as a State Farm multi-line agent and completed my graduate certificate in software design and development at the University of Washington. I worked as a full-time SDET at Microsoft.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I have volunteered for alums and peer mentoring programs at the University of Washington since 2021. I helped a first-year student to get her first internship with my connection in 2022. Also, I have helped people around me with their resumé/LinkedIn profile reviews, mock interviews, networking, and offer negotiation. Witnessing their growth and success reaffirmed my passion for supporting others in their professional development.
How I can help
Build networking and LinkedIn/GitHub profile effectively, resumé/personal statement review, mock interviews (technical and behavioral questions), or anything related to your career navigation.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
You’re on a journey of growth and discovery. Embrace the challenges and take them as opportunities that come your way. It is ok to feel uncertain about certain things. We are here to help and support you as you navigate your career path.
Zihan Xu (he/his) (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the MSCS program, I was a technical consultant for the Erie County Department of Environmental and Planning. I earned a master of sustainability leadership from the University at Buffalo. Last summer I did a software development engineer internship for the Amazon AWS AuroraDB team. And this spring I did a co-op for Zambezi Animal Welfare Services as a web engineer.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
At Northeastern, my identity positively influenced my experiences by connecting me with a diverse group of peers who broadened my understanding of various challenges and successes. Learning about my classmates’ efforts to transition to new fields, I saw how some struggled with their decisions and the demands of succeeding in a competitive tech market. While these challenges sometimes cast a shadow over our achievements, they also fostered resilience. To encourage students facing similar transitions, I would highlight their accomplishments and courage, reminding them of their progress, like successfully completing rigorous bridge courses, or praising their bravery in making significant life changes to join this program.
How I can help
I can offer support with resumé improvement, job hunting assistance, and mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Unlike people with various backgrounds (science-related majors, done CS courses previously, no need for sponsorship, first semester with 700+ leetcode records, etc.), I literally have no buffer for this new field of study. If I can achieve something, I am sure you can get it too, and that’s why I am here to help you.
Yaqun Deng (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hello fellow Huskies! I am currently in my final year of the CS Align program, making strides to bridge my business background with the dynamic realm of technology. In my journey, I have had the privilege of interning with industry giants such as SAP, where I honed my skills as a full-stack developer, and Nokia, where I delved into the intricacies of backend development. The prospect of making a meaningful impact in the technical field has fueled my passion, and I am eagerly seeking both a return offer and exciting full-time opportunities. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my unique background to guide and assist fellow students in their career journeys as a Career Peer Advisor.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to guide students in their pursuit of internships and full-time jobs. Having been in their shoes, I empathize with the challenges they may face and the importance of having a supportive guide during this critical phase. I vividly recall the invaluable assistance I received from peer advisors, colleagues, and classmates, and I am eager to pay it forward
How I can help
Especially for international students under an F-1 visa, I can provide guidance on structuring and tailoring your resume to effectively showcase your skills and experiences. I can also help you explore different career paths and personalized study plan within the tech industry based on your interests and skills. I will assist in identifying potential internship opportunities and provide resources and tips for preparing for technical or nontechnical mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Finding jobs is challenging. Sometimes all you can do is to keep going and never give up. If you have applied for numerous positions without hearing back or encountered obstacles in the interview process, remember that your worth is not determined by these moments. Rejections and setbacks are part of the process, but each one brings you closer to success. I am with you.
Rhea Qiu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Currently enrolled in the Align MSCS Program, I bring a background in product management following my graduation from the University of Toronto. Transitioning into computer science, I have undertaken a few different software engineering internships to further develop my skills.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am excited for the opportunity to share my own experiences and knowledge, while also learning from the experiences of fellow students. Additionally, I look forward to assisting students in navigating their job search process, offering guidance, and providing valuable perspectives to support their career journey.
How I can help
I can assist with resumé reviews, mock interviews, general advice, and guidance.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Stay confident, trust the process, and embrace the journey. Dive in wholeheartedly and give it your all. Remember good things take time, but rest assured, things will work out for you.
Shu “Susie” Xu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Previously, I majored in law with 2 years of education law experience in Palo Alto.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
The rewarding aspect of being a CPA is the opportunity to engage with diverse students, aiding in their career design and fostering continuous learning, as well as learning from different students and helping them learn more about career design.
How I can help
I offer support in resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conduct mock interviews. Let me help you present your best self professionally.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Persist with resilience. Network, showcase your skills, and believe in your potential. The right opportunity is on the horizon.
Chenru Wu (he/his) (Vancouver)
Current Program & Previous Experience
I am in the Align MS in Computer Science program. Previously, I worked in system/engineering co-op roles at Generac Grid Services and completed an internship at Ansys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I find fulfillment in guiding peers who, like me, initially felt confused when venturing into the computer science field.
How I can help
I can offer guidance based on my experiences, ranging from navigating job searches to preparing for your first co-op in tech. I can also provide insights into working in industries, particularly within engineering backgrounds.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Embrace the possibility of setbacks, but never embrace the idea of giving up.
Armaan Sait (he/his) (Portland)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hey Huskies, as a current student in the final year of the MSCS direct program, I bring a unique blend of academic excellence and professional experience to the role of career peer advisor. Prior to my graduate studies, I served as a data engineer at Tiger Analytics for two years, honing my technical skills and gaining valuable industry insights. Also, I am interning at Vantage Risk, further strengthening my practical knowledge, and understanding of the field. This diverse background equips me with the expertise to effectively guide and support fellow students in their career journeys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and assist them in navigating their paths towards internships & full-time employment opportunities. Empowering others and sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them achieve their career goals is a source of great fulfillment for me.
How I can help
I offer comprehensive support in various areas, including resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conducting mock interviews. For students on F1 visas, I can provide guidance on structuring their resumés effectively to highlight their unique strengths and qualifications. Also, I will help identify potential internship opportunities and provide valuable resources and tips to prepare for technical and non-technical interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
The journey towards securing internships or full-time positions can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key. I encourage you to actively network, highlight your skills, and have confidence in your potential. Remember, each rejection or setback brings you one step closer to success. Embrace the process and know that I am here to support you every step of the way. With dedication and the right guidance, the perfect opportunity is within your reach.
Hailing (Helen) Hu (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the Align MSCS program in 2021, I worked as a State Farm multi-line agent and completed my graduate certificate in software design and development at the University of Washington. I worked as a full-time SDET at Microsoft.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I have volunteered for alums and peer mentoring programs at the University of Washington since 2021. I helped a first-year student to get her first internship with my connection in 2022. Also, I have helped people around me with their resumé/LinkedIn profile reviews, mock interviews, networking, and offer negotiation. Witnessing their growth and success reaffirmed my passion for supporting others in their professional development.
How I can help
Build networking and LinkedIn/GitHub profile effectively, resumé/personal statement review, mock interviews (technical and behavioral questions), or anything related to your career navigation.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
You’re on a journey of growth and discovery. Embrace the challenges and take them as opportunities that come your way. It is ok to feel uncertain about certain things. We are here to help and support you as you navigate your career path.
Zihan Xu (he/his) (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the MSCS program, I was a technical consultant for the Erie County Department of Environmental and Planning. I earned a master of sustainability leadership from the University at Buffalo. Last summer I did a software development engineer internship for the Amazon AWS AuroraDB team. And this spring I did a co-op for Zambezi Animal Welfare Services as a web engineer.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
At Northeastern, my identity positively influenced my experiences by connecting me with a diverse group of peers who broadened my understanding of various challenges and successes. Learning about my classmates’ efforts to transition to new fields, I saw how some struggled with their decisions and the demands of succeeding in a competitive tech market. While these challenges sometimes cast a shadow over our achievements, they also fostered resilience. To encourage students facing similar transitions, I would highlight their accomplishments and courage, reminding them of their progress, like successfully completing rigorous bridge courses, or praising their bravery in making significant life changes to join this program.
How I can help
I can offer support with resumé improvement, job hunting assistance, and mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Unlike people with various backgrounds (science-related majors, done CS courses previously, no need for sponsorship, first semester with 700+ leetcode records, etc.), I literally have no buffer for this new field of study. If I can achieve something, I am sure you can get it too, and that’s why I am here to help you.
Yaqun Deng (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hello fellow Huskies! I am currently in my final year of the CS Align program, making strides to bridge my business background with the dynamic realm of technology. In my journey, I have had the privilege of interning with industry giants such as SAP, where I honed my skills as a full-stack developer, and Nokia, where I delved into the intricacies of backend development. The prospect of making a meaningful impact in the technical field has fueled my passion, and I am eagerly seeking both a return offer and exciting full-time opportunities. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my unique background to guide and assist fellow students in their career journeys as a Career Peer Advisor.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to guide students in their pursuit of internships and full-time jobs. Having been in their shoes, I empathize with the challenges they may face and the importance of having a supportive guide during this critical phase. I vividly recall the invaluable assistance I received from peer advisors, colleagues, and classmates, and I am eager to pay it forward
How I can help
Especially for international students under an F-1 visa, I can provide guidance on structuring and tailoring your resume to effectively showcase your skills and experiences. I can also help you explore different career paths and personalized study plan within the tech industry based on your interests and skills. I will assist in identifying potential internship opportunities and provide resources and tips for preparing for technical or nontechnical mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Finding jobs is challenging. Sometimes all you can do is to keep going and never give up. If you have applied for numerous positions without hearing back or encountered obstacles in the interview process, remember that your worth is not determined by these moments. Rejections and setbacks are part of the process, but each one brings you closer to success. I am with you.
Rhea Qiu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Currently enrolled in the Align MSCS Program, I bring a background in product management following my graduation from the University of Toronto. Transitioning into computer science, I have undertaken a few different software engineering internships to further develop my skills.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am excited for the opportunity to share my own experiences and knowledge, while also learning from the experiences of fellow students. Additionally, I look forward to assisting students in navigating their job search process, offering guidance, and providing valuable perspectives to support their career journey.
How I can help
I can assist with resumé reviews, mock interviews, general advice, and guidance.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Stay confident, trust the process, and embrace the journey. Dive in wholeheartedly and give it your all. Remember good things take time, but rest assured, things will work out for you.
Shu “Susie” Xu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Previously, I majored in law with 2 years of education law experience in Palo Alto.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
The rewarding aspect of being a CPA is the opportunity to engage with diverse students, aiding in their career design and fostering continuous learning, as well as learning from different students and helping them learn more about career design.
How I can help
I offer support in resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conduct mock interviews. Let me help you present your best self professionally.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Persist with resilience. Network, showcase your skills, and believe in your potential. The right opportunity is on the horizon.
Chenru Wu (he/his) (Vancouver)
Current Program & Previous Experience
I am in the Align MS in Computer Science program. Previously, I worked in system/engineering co-op roles at Generac Grid Services and completed an internship at Ansys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I find fulfillment in guiding peers who, like me, initially felt confused when venturing into the computer science field.
How I can help
I can offer guidance based on my experiences, ranging from navigating job searches to preparing for your first co-op in tech. I can also provide insights into working in industries, particularly within engineering backgrounds.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Embrace the possibility of setbacks, but never embrace the idea of giving up.
Armaan Sait (he/his) (Portland)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hey Huskies, as a current student in the final year of the MSCS direct program, I bring a unique blend of academic excellence and professional experience to the role of career peer advisor. Prior to my graduate studies, I served as a data engineer at Tiger Analytics for two years, honing my technical skills and gaining valuable industry insights. Also, I am interning at Vantage Risk, further strengthening my practical knowledge, and understanding of the field. This diverse background equips me with the expertise to effectively guide and support fellow students in their career journeys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and assist them in navigating their paths towards internships & full-time employment opportunities. Empowering others and sharing my knowledge and experiences to help them achieve their career goals is a source of great fulfillment for me.
How I can help
I offer comprehensive support in various areas, including resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conducting mock interviews. For students on F1 visas, I can provide guidance on structuring their resumés effectively to highlight their unique strengths and qualifications. Also, I will help identify potential internship opportunities and provide valuable resources and tips to prepare for technical and non-technical interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
The journey towards securing internships or full-time positions can be challenging, but persistence and resilience are key. I encourage you to actively network, highlight your skills, and have confidence in your potential. Remember, each rejection or setback brings you one step closer to success. Embrace the process and know that I am here to support you every step of the way. With dedication and the right guidance, the perfect opportunity is within your reach.
Hailing (Helen) Hu (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the Align MSCS program in 2021, I worked as a State Farm multi-line agent and completed my graduate certificate in software design and development at the University of Washington. I worked as a full-time SDET at Microsoft.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I have volunteered for alums and peer mentoring programs at the University of Washington since 2021. I helped a first-year student to get her first internship with my connection in 2022. Also, I have helped people around me with their resumé/LinkedIn profile reviews, mock interviews, networking, and offer negotiation. Witnessing their growth and success reaffirmed my passion for supporting others in their professional development.
How I can help
Build networking and LinkedIn/GitHub profile effectively, resumé/personal statement review, mock interviews (technical and behavioral questions), or anything related to your career navigation.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
You’re on a journey of growth and discovery. Embrace the challenges and take them as opportunities that come your way. It is ok to feel uncertain about certain things. We are here to help and support you as you navigate your career path.
Zihan Xu (he/his) (Seattle)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Before joining the MSCS program, I was a technical consultant for the Erie County Department of Environmental and Planning. I earned a master of sustainability leadership from the University at Buffalo. Last summer I did a software development engineer internship for the Amazon AWS AuroraDB team. And this spring I did a co-op for Zambezi Animal Welfare Services as a web engineer.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
At Northeastern, my identity positively influenced my experiences by connecting me with a diverse group of peers who broadened my understanding of various challenges and successes. Learning about my classmates’ efforts to transition to new fields, I saw how some struggled with their decisions and the demands of succeeding in a competitive tech market. While these challenges sometimes cast a shadow over our achievements, they also fostered resilience. To encourage students facing similar transitions, I would highlight their accomplishments and courage, reminding them of their progress, like successfully completing rigorous bridge courses, or praising their bravery in making significant life changes to join this program.
How I can help
I can offer support with resumé improvement, job hunting assistance, and mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Unlike people with various backgrounds (science-related majors, done CS courses previously, no need for sponsorship, first semester with 700+ leetcode records, etc.), I literally have no buffer for this new field of study. If I can achieve something, I am sure you can get it too, and that’s why I am here to help you.
Yaqun Deng (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Hello fellow Huskies! I am currently in my final year of the CS Align program, making strides to bridge my business background with the dynamic realm of technology. In my journey, I have had the privilege of interning with industry giants such as SAP, where I honed my skills as a full-stack developer, and Nokia, where I delved into the intricacies of backend development. The prospect of making a meaningful impact in the technical field has fueled my passion, and I am eagerly seeking both a return offer and exciting full-time opportunities. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging my unique background to guide and assist fellow students in their career journeys as a Career Peer Advisor.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity to guide students in their pursuit of internships and full-time jobs. Having been in their shoes, I empathize with the challenges they may face and the importance of having a supportive guide during this critical phase. I vividly recall the invaluable assistance I received from peer advisors, colleagues, and classmates, and I am eager to pay it forward
How I can help
Especially for international students under an F-1 visa, I can provide guidance on structuring and tailoring your resume to effectively showcase your skills and experiences. I can also help you explore different career paths and personalized study plan within the tech industry based on your interests and skills. I will assist in identifying potential internship opportunities and provide resources and tips for preparing for technical or nontechnical mock interviews.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Finding jobs is challenging. Sometimes all you can do is to keep going and never give up. If you have applied for numerous positions without hearing back or encountered obstacles in the interview process, remember that your worth is not determined by these moments. Rejections and setbacks are part of the process, but each one brings you closer to success. I am with you.
Rhea Qiu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Currently enrolled in the Align MSCS Program, I bring a background in product management following my graduation from the University of Toronto. Transitioning into computer science, I have undertaken a few different software engineering internships to further develop my skills.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I am excited for the opportunity to share my own experiences and knowledge, while also learning from the experiences of fellow students. Additionally, I look forward to assisting students in navigating their job search process, offering guidance, and providing valuable perspectives to support their career journey.
How I can help
I can assist with resumé reviews, mock interviews, general advice, and guidance.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Stay confident, trust the process, and embrace the journey. Dive in wholeheartedly and give it your all. Remember good things take time, but rest assured, things will work out for you.
Shu “Susie” Xu (she/her) (Silicon Valley)
Current Program & Previous Experience
Previously, I majored in law with 2 years of education law experience in Palo Alto.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
The rewarding aspect of being a CPA is the opportunity to engage with diverse students, aiding in their career design and fostering continuous learning, as well as learning from different students and helping them learn more about career design.
How I can help
I offer support in resumé review, job hunting strategies, and conduct mock interviews. Let me help you present your best self professionally.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Persist with resilience. Network, showcase your skills, and believe in your potential. The right opportunity is on the horizon.
Chenru Wu (he/his) (Vancouver)
Current Program & Previous Experience
I am in the Align MS in Computer Science program. Previously, I worked in system/engineering co-op roles at Generac Grid Services and completed an internship at Ansys.
What aspects of being a CPA excite you?
I find fulfillment in guiding peers who, like me, initially felt confused when venturing into the computer science field.
How I can help
I can offer guidance based on my experiences, ranging from navigating job searches to preparing for your first co-op in tech. I can also provide insights into working in industries, particularly within engineering backgrounds.
Additional thoughts/words of encouragement
Embrace the possibility of setbacks, but never embrace the idea of giving up.