Metadata
Title
Peer Concentration Advisors
Category
general
UUID
2bb103998c0245ec9ca93a0a3d3db779
Source URL
https://csadvising.seas.harvard.edu/advising/pca/
Parent URL
https://csadvising.seas.harvard.edu/firstyear/
Crawl Time
2026-03-09T03:28:32+00:00
Rendered Raw Markdown 
# Peer Concentration Advisors

**Source**: https://csadvising.seas.harvard.edu/advising/pca/
**Parent**: https://csadvising.seas.harvard.edu/firstyear/

Peer Concentration Advisors (PCAs) serve as peer advisors for current
CS concentrators and pre-concentrators, providing a valuable
perspective and helping students to discover additional resources and
opportunities. Students can reach out to meet with PCAs with similar
academic, career, or extracurricular interests.

For more information, please reach out to the PCA Co-Captains, Bright Liu and Natalia Siwek, through the email address [cs-pca@seas.harvard.edu](mailto:cs-pca@seas.harvard.edu).

### Matching

To be matched with a PCA, please fill out our [form here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScdwSFJKxpBgT7Lkwy-dRpJFopqWKSXRgMGx4NmlLSQ-9jR4Q/viewform?usp=sf_link).

### Search Bios

### Peer Concentration Advisor Bios

#### Alliyah Steele

Class of **2026**, lives in **Kirkland**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/alliyah-steele-b00ba7181/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alliyah-steele-b00ba7181/)\

[[asteele@college.harvard.edu](mailto:asteele@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Alliyah%20Steele(asteele@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi everyone! My name is Alliyah and I am a FGLI rising senior in Kirkland House. I am pursuing a joint concentration in Computer Science and Neurobiology. Happy to talk about experiences joint concentrating, summer research, gap years and really anything else CS! Also can give some perspectives on CS recruiting and data science/aerospace internships. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends, volunteering with PBHA, and drawing, and taking walks.

**CS Interests:**\
-Machine Learning (TensorFlow, PyTorch, GPT API etc.)\
-Data Science (Pandas, Numpy, Excel, etc.)\
-Web Development (Node.js, Express, MySQL, MongoDB, Mongoose, Sequelize, React)

**Other Interests:**\
-Volunteering (PBHA Experimentors)\
-Fitness (Swimming, Running, House IMs etc.)\
-Art (Drawing and Orgami)\
-Reading (YA novels, Graphical Novels, Comics)

**Concentration:** Allied Joint Computer Science and Neuroscience

**Courses:** CS20, CS50, CS61, CS120, STAT110, Math1B, Math21a, Math21b

**Tags:** FGLI, Research

#### Bright Liu

Class of **2026**, lives in **Mather**.\

[[www.linkedin.com/in/bright-liu-harvard](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bright-liu-harvard)](www.linkedin.com/in/bright-liu-harvard)\

[[brightliu@college.harvard.edu](mailto:brightliu@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Bright%20Liu(brightliu@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** : Hi! I’m a senior in Mather studying Mathematics and Computer Science, and I’m also working toward a Master’s in Statistics. I’ve had the chance to do research in astrophysics (Copenhagen), medical AI (Mass General Hospital), and ML here in Cambridge. Last summer, I worked at Amazon Web Services on large scale ML infrastructure for LLM powered agentic enterprise search. I’m interested in everything from AI safety and Quant finance to startups and philosophy. I love meeting new people and swapping ideas, whether it’s about research, classes, or just life, so feel free to reach out anytime.

**CS Interests:** Machine Learning, Algorithms, Systems, AI Safety, Interpretability, Theorem Proving, Medical AI, Quantitative Research.

\*\*Other Interests:\*\*Reading, Talking to Friends/Family, Karaoke/Guitar, Hiking/Rock Climbing/Frisbee, Meditation/Journal, Stargazing, Teaching, Traveling, Cooking.

**Concentration:** Mathematics and Computer Science (AB/SM in Stat)

**Courses:** : CS 61, 91r, 109b, 124, 128, 136, 262; MIT 6.S898; Stat 110, 111, 171, 210, 211, 212, 216, 236; Math 55 A/B, 243.

**Tags:** Research, Internships, AB/SM, Work Abroad, Joint Concentration, Startups

#### Carolyn Dorantes

Class of **2027**, lives in **Kirkland**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyndorantes/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolyndorantes/)\

[<https://github.com/cdorantes05>](https://github.com/cdorantes05)\

[[cdorantes@college.harvard.edu](mailto:cdorantes@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Carolyn%20Dorantes(cdorantes@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi everyone! I am a junior in Kirkland studying Computer Science with a secondary in Education. I am passionate about education and diversity in tech. On campus, I am involved in RAZA, BSG, and CA-ing for CS32. In my free time, I love to watch different types of sit-coms and going to concerts. Feel free to reach out with any questions, I am open to talk about anything!

**CS Interests:** Computational Complexity, Web Development, Databases, Education

**Other Interests:** Traveling, Live Music, Thrifting, Cooking, Sit-Coms, Hiking

**Concentration:** Computer Science

**Courses:** CS50, CS20, CS61, CS1200, CS1360

**Tags:** FGLI, Internships, CS & Humanities

#### Jasai Martinez

Class of **2026**, lives in **Quincy**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasaimartinez/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasaimartinez/)\

[[jasaimartinez@college.harvard.edu](mailto:jasaimartinez@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Jasai%20Martinez(jasaimartinez@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi everyone! I’m a senior in Quincy House from Oakland, CA planning to study CS and Statistics. I am passionate about data science, web development, education, and diversity in tech. On campus, I am also a PAF for first-year students as well as involved with LiFT, SHPE, and I’ve been a TF for a variety of CS/Stat courses. Outside of campus, I love all things movies, video games, making coffee and running :) Feel free to reach out, I’m here to support you or chat more about any of my experiences!

**CS Interests:** Software Engineering, Data Science, ML, Web Development, Education

**Other Interests:** Traveling, Music, Video Games, Running/Hiking, Coffee

**Concentration:** Computer Science and Statistics

**Courses:** CS 50, CS 51, CS 61, CS 109a/b, CS 120, CS 124, CS 182, CS 191, Stat 110/111, AM 107, ES 150

**Tags:** FGLI, Double Concentration, Internships, Student Organizations, Research

#### Jean Yves Gatwaza

Class of **2026**, lives in **Lowell**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-yves-gatwaza-7897861b2>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-yves-gatwaza-7897861b2)\

[[jgatwazakubwimana@college.harvard.edu](mailto:jgatwazakubwimana@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Jean%20Yves%20Gatwaza(jgatwazakubwimana@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** I’m a rising senior, born and raised in Kigali, Rwanda, concentrating in CS with a secondary in Economics.

**CS Interests:** Systems // AI & ML systems, Software Engineering

**Other Interests:** Music, Travelling

**Concentration:** Computer Science

**Courses:** CS50, CS51, STAT110, AM22A, CS20, CS61, CS175, CS120, CS124, CS1820, CS265

**Tags:** FGLI, International, Internships, Entrepreneurship

#### Josh Kaplan

Class of **2026**, lives in **Winthrop**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kaplan1/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-kaplan1/)\

[[joshkaplan@college.harvard.edu](mailto:joshkaplan@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Josh%20Kaplan(joshkaplan@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi! I’m Josh, and I am a rising senior in Winthrop House from New York City. I am pursuing a concentration in Computer Science. Happy to talk about summer plans, research, class selection, and whatever else is on your mind.

**CS Interests:** Data Science, Algorithms and Limits of Computation, Randomized Computation, Systems, Machine Learning

**Other Interests:** Running, Reading, History

**Concentration:** Computer Science

**Courses:** CS50, CS51, CS61, CS20, CS1200, CS1240, CS1090A, CS1820, ES50, ES150, AM22A

**Tags:** Internships, Research, TF, Startups, Work Abroad, Student Organizations

#### Melissa Wu

Class of **2026**, lives in **Lowell**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissazwu/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissazwu/)\

[[mzwu@college.harvard.edu](mailto:mzwu@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Melissa%20Wu(mzwu@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi everyone! I’m Melissa, a senior in Lowell studying Computer Science and Statistics with a secondary in Economics. I am also pursuing a concurrent masters in CS. I’m from northern Virginia, about 45 minutes from Washington, D.C. My academic interests include data science, machine learning, quantitative finance, and statistical research. On campus I’m involved in GUSH and have been in some tech/finance/consulting organizations too. In my free time, I love dancing, running, and exploring new cafes. Happy to talk about courses, internships, research, or anything else about life at Harvard!

**CS Interests:** Data Science, Machine Learning, Software Development

**Other Interests:** Dance, Music, Teaching, Cafes/Bakeries

**Concentration:** Computer Science and Statistics

**Courses:** CS50, CS61, CS124, CS226, STAT110, STAT111, STAT139

**Tags:** Research, Internships, Joint Concentration

#### Natalia Siwek

Class of **2027**, lives in **Mather**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-siwek-640957235/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-siwek-640957235/)\

[[nataliasiwek@college.harvard.edu](mailto:nataliasiwek@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Natalia%20Siwek(nataliasiwek@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi! I’m Natalia and I’m a junior in Mather studying CS, Stats and Math (with intention to pursue a Concurrent Master in CS). I’m originally from Poland and on campus I’m involved with WECode (as Director of Engineering), WiCS, HPAIR and Debate. I did research at MIT (within multisensory AI) and I’m on a staff for CS50 and CS1200.\
In my free time I go to the gym, bake, play board games and check out new restaurants.\
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you want to talk about CS, classes, internships or college life in general.

**CS Interests:** ML, Data Science, Theory of Computation, Cloud

**Other Interests:** gym, rewatching shows I’ve already seen, board games

**Concentration:** Computer Science and Statistics

**Courses:** CS50, CS51, Math 22a, Math 154, CS120, CS109a, STAT210, CS124, CS208, Neuro 140

**Tags:** International, Joint Concentration

#### Noah Chung

Class of **2026**, lives in **Winthrop**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-chung-7b578424b/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-chung-7b578424b/)\

[[nchung@college.harvard.edu](mailto:nchung@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Noah%20Chung(nchung@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi everyone! My name is Noah and I am a senior in Winthrop studying computer science and math. I am interested in software engineering, algorithms, and machine learning. On campus, I am one of the co-presidents for the Harvard Pops Orchestra, and I also volunteer for the Cambridge Math Circle, teaching younger students math. I am also a Calculus Course Assistant, and I have been part of HODP and HMMT in the past. Outside of school, I love to travel, eat food, and play video games. Happy to talk about anything (CS or non CS related), so please reach out if you have any questions!

**CS Interests:** Software Development, Machine Learning, Data Science, Algorithms

**Other Interests:** Harvard Pops Orchestra, travel, food, video games

**Concentration:** CS/Math Joint

**Courses:** CS 50, CS51, CS109A, CS1240, CS1360, CS1801, CS1840, CS2080, STAT110

**Tags:** Summer Abroad (Research), SWE Internships, Joint Concentration, Volunteering

#### Sophie Pearo

Class of **2027**, lives in **Kirkland**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiepearo/>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiepearo/)\

[[sophiepearo@college.harvard.edu](mailto:sophiepearo@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Sophie%20Pearo(sophiepearo@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi! My name is Sophie and I’m from Boxborough, MA. I’m in a junior in Kirkland studying computer science and statistics with a secondary in economics. On campus, I’m involved with Harvard Student Agencies and Women in Computer Science. My academic interests include ethical AI, algorithms, and theoretical computer science. I’m happy to talk about anything CS-related, especially course selection and extracurriculars. Feel free to reach out!

**CS Interests:** Machine Learning, AI Ethics, Theoretical CS

**Other Interests:** Music, Reading, Outdoors/camping, Golf

**Concentration:** Joint Concentration in Computer Science & Statistics

**Courses:** CS50, CS51, CS20, CS61, CS181, STAT110, STAT111, CS109a, CS120

**Tags:** Joint Concentration, Entrepreneurship, Internships

#### Victoria Li

Class of **2026**, lives in **Winthrop**.\

[<https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-r-li>](https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-r-li)\

[[vrli@college.harvard.edu](mailto:vrli@college.harvard.edu)](mailto:Victoria%20Li(vrli@college.harvard.edu))\

**About Me:** Hi! I’m Victoria, a senior in Winthrop from New York City! I’m interested in ML research, software/ML engineering, startups, and interdisciplinary applications of CS, especially in health, cognitive science, and the social sciences. Broadly, I’m excited about behavioral ML––investigating the inner-workings of ML models and better understanding people with AI to improve human-AI interaction. I would love to chat about getting involved in CS/ML research, women in CS, finding a tech internship, picking classes, getting involved with CS-oriented clubs, or anything else. I also enjoy eating matcha-flavored desserts, reading, traveling, and playing volleyball. Please feel free to reach out!

**CS Interests:** Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science

**Other Interests:** Reading, History, Traveling, Music, Teaching

**Concentration:** Computer Science and Statistics

**Courses:** CS 51, CS61, CS91r, CS 121, CS 124, CS 181, CS 184, CS 2281r, CS 2620, STAT 110, STAT 111, STAT 149, STAT 210, STAT 333r, ECON 1011a

**Tags:** Research, Internships, AB/SM, Joint Concentration