PAC

Peer Academic Counseling

Joseph Burney

Peer Academic Counselor

Hey everyone! My name is Joseph Burney, and I’m a sophomore majoring in philosophy with a minor in journalism. As a Peer Academic Counselor, I’m passionate about bridging resource and knowledge gaps between the university and underrepresented students. Outside of work and school, you’ll find me getting a matcha, listening to music, playing the violin, watching a movie, or doing some kind of writing. Here’s to a great year of service and community!

Ana Baena Chavez

Peer Academic Counselor

Hi everyone, my name is Ana! I am a senior majoring in Cognitive Science with a minor in Spanish. For my final year at Cal, I am incredibly excited to serve as a Peer Academic Counselor (PAC) with the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). I am deeply passionate about helping students confidently navigate higher education and succeed here at Berkeley. Outside of school and work, I love going on adventures, whether that’s exploring national parks or taking spontaneous trips to San Francisco. In my free time, I...

Miriam De La Cruz

Peer Academic Counselor

Hi everyone, my name is Miriam De La Cruz (she/her), and I'm a senior majoring in Political Science with a minor in Data Science. I am excited to return and co-lead our PAC team giving me another year to work with the EOP community. A little about me, I love spontaneous activities with family and friends, going to the movie theaters, and exploring nature. I am thrilled to meet everyone this semester!

Nesta Nezerwe

Peer Academic Counselor

Helloo!

My name is Nesta(He/Him), and I’m originally from Burundi. I’m a 2nd year majoring in Economics and Business Administration, and I’m honored to be serving as a Peer Academic Counselor with EOP this year. Outside of academics, you’ll usually find me playing basketball or soccer, biking, or hiking. I’m really excited to meet you all, feel free to stop by and ask any question, and let’s make this college experience an incredible one together!

Demetrius Ramirez

Peer Academic Counselor

Hi Everyone I am a senior studying Cognitive Science. And I am returning as one of the co-leads of our PAC team! I absolutely love EOP and the space it provides as well as the community that comes along with it. A little bit about me is I work very closely with education oriented spaces here on campus like Stiles Hall as well as Berkeley IT. I love the concept of innovation and education. Fun fact I am also in the Cal Band. You can usually find me playing the saxophone.

Irma Ramirez

Peer Academic Counselor

Hi, my name is Irma Ramirez (she/her/ella)! I am a 4th year majoring in History with a minor in Chicanx/Latinx Studies. Entering my last year at Cal, I am excited to serve as a Peer Academic Counselor with EOP. I can’t wait to help and be a resource to all! If you knew me, you would know that I am from Boyle Heights, my favorite color is green, I love Disneyland, and that I am a twin. Some of my interests include reading, coloring, watching movies, and much more.

Edison Singh

Peer Academic Counselor

Hello, I’m Edison! I’m a 4th-year transfer student majoring in Asian American Studies with a minor in Education. I’m passionate about student mentorship, academic advising, and expanding access to higher education. In my free time, I enjoy playing piano, learning new languages, or grabbing a boba or coffee. This year, I’m excited to step into a few leadership roles, including serving as a Peer Academic Counselor with EOP! I look forward to supporting students as they navigate their academic journey at Cal, connect with campus resources, and build confidence in achieving...

Kyara Valera

Peer Academic Counselor

Hi everyone! My name is Kyara Valera (she/her). I am a senior majoring in Sociology with a minor in Disability Studies. I am Filipinx-American, born and raised in the South Bay. I also transferred to Cal from a community college! I am excited to enter my first year as a Peer Academic Counselor with a focus on fostering community and a sense of belonging. Looking forward to being of service to you all in any way possible.

Yasmin Ochoa Zaragoza

Peer Academic Counselor

Hello, my name is Yasmin I am a First generation college student and a transfer student majoring in Media Studies. This year I will be a Peer Academic Advisor, a part of EOP. Some of my interests are hiking, reading and listening to music! I am very excited and looking forward to this upcoming school year as it will be my final year!