Meet our Academic Coaches - Student Academic Success Center

Meet our dedicated team of peer Academic Coaches!

With diverse backgrounds and expertise across various subjects, our coaches are here to provide personalized guidance, share effective study strategies, and offer invaluable support to help you throughout your journey at CMU.

Get to know our team below and sign up for Academic Coaching on WCOnline!

Chloris Liu (she/her)

Bio

Hi everyone! My name is Chloris, and I am a junior majoring in StatML. I'm a huge fan of detective novels—especially those filled with clever logic and unexpected twists. There's nothing like getting lost in a good mystery! I also love exploring different cuisines, always on the lookout for new flavors and experiences.

During my academic journey, I’ve also struggled with balancing study and life. I’m more than happy to share my past experiences and discuss study strategies and future plans. Of course, I’m also excited to have a casual chat to make life happier, hear your stories and insights.

Erica Orchiai

Bio

Hi everyone! My name is Erica Ochiai, and I’m currently a sophomore studying Business Administration, Human-Computer Interaction, and Japanese. I’m passionate about pottery, surfing, thrifting, volleyball, and cooking! At Carnegie Mellon, I’m involved with Delta Gamma, UEA, Club Volleyball, and I work at Capital Grains.

I’m excited to help you find the perfect balance between work and fun, whether it’s through time management tips, study strategies, or just finding ways to make the most of your college experience!

Luning Lei (she/her)

Bio

Hi! I’m Luning (she/her), a sophomore at Dietrich College, majoring in Statistics and Machine Learning with a double major in Computer Science. My favorite things to do are huddling up on the sofa to watch movies and exploring museums in Pittsburgh. I'm here to help you navigate challenging courses and adapt to life at CMU!

Natalie Koch (she/her)

Bio

Hi! I'm Natalie and I'm a junior studying Professional Writing with an additional major in Film & Visual Media in Dietrich. Outside of academic coaching, I am on staff for The Tartan newspaper and am also a Tartan Ambassador. In my free time, I'm a freelance photographer and enjoy listening to music from the 60s-90s.

I would love to help students who are finding it difficult to adjust to the college environment and help them make a plan in order to make better use of their time, ultimately to figure out a healthy work-life balance suited to them. Adjusting to college can be stressful, and I want to make our collaboration focused on your wellbeing and success. Please don't hesitate to reach out, and I look forward to working with you!

Nazmee Kamal (she/her)

Bio

Hi! I'm Nazmee, and I'm a junior in CFA studying Vocal Performance, and I'm also a minor in CMIST studying American Politics and Law. I'm a big reader, and I love so many different genres, from mystery to historical non-fiction! I'm so excited to be on the SASC team, and looking forward to helping students out with anything they might need. Whether it's procrastination, time management and scheduling, or simply balancing school and wellness I'm here for you! I also have experience in workplace environments, specifically in the federal government, so if you need any career advice, I'm here to listen and help! I look forward to working with you :)

Osman Nori

Bio

Hi, my name is Osman Nori and I'm a Junior physics major with a track in applied physics. My hobbies include playing chess, soccer, video games, and hanging out with friends. I'm also a big fan of traveling and trying new foods and I enjoy helping fellow students with managing their time.

Shanaya Irani

Bio

Hi! I'm Shanaya, a junior studying Materials Science and Engineering with an additional major in Biomedical Engineering at CIT. I was born in Austin but grew up in Mumbai, India (if you ask me about home, I'll never stop talking).

At CMU, I compete as a sprinter for the Track and Field team and am involved in Alpha Kappa Psi and Kappa Kappa Gamma. Hence, juggling academics, athletics, and extracurriculars is something I’ve learned through experience, and I know how challenging it can be. As an Academic Coach, I’m here as a peer and a friend who understands the demands of student life. My goal is to create a space where you can talk openly, and we can work together to manage your time in a way that fits your priorities and still gives you time to rest and socialize.

Shirley Luo

Bio

Hi guys! My name is Shirley, and I’m a sophomore at Dietrich College. I’m currently on the pre-med track and majoring in Psychology. I love to draw and glass paint, as well as watch and read anime in my free time.

Currently, having to navigate the pre-med journey myself, I understand the importance of finding balance and managing stress. I’m passionate about helping fellow students develop effective study habits and find ways to stay motivated. Whether you need guidance on managing your coursework or just a friendly ear to listen, I’m here!

Let’s tackle the challenges of college life together and celebrate the small victories along the way! Looking forward to connecting with you!

Vidisha Chopra (she/her)

Bio

My name is Vidisha Chopra and I am a sophomore double majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Engineering, Design, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. I come from Mumbai, India and I love listening to Bollywood music, watching movies and exploring the city in my free time.

Vionnie Khong (she/her)

Contact

Address
5000 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Bio

Vionnie (Vee-ON-ee) is currently a sophomore studying economics and statistics. Feel free to talk about scheduling, time management, or if you need someone to keep you accountable through a check-in!