Peer Mentor Program
Steinbright's Peer Mentor Program is a community focused on connecting prospective and current students with a peer expert on everything co-op!
A Peer Mentor is experienced in the recruitment process and can provide support in topics like career exploration, industry insight, and job search preparation and strategies. A Mentor can also provide support to students on co-op by sharing insights on navigating the professional environment, setting goals, time management, and how to make the most of a co-op experience.
Peer Mentors also support the Steinbright Career Development Center and the university at large by attending events and engaging with prospective and current students, sharing their lived experience of the co-op program.
Questions About the Program?
Contact the Peer Mentor Advising team at: scdcpeer@drexel.edu
Looking for Peer Mentor support?
Check out the list below to connect with a Peer Mentor today.
Anika Islam
Class Year: Class of 2025Major: Public Health
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
Attending Drexel University and experiencing the co-op process motivated me to become a Peer Mentor. As a Peer Mentor, I hope that I can create a strong relationship with students and help my mentees work toward accomplishing their goals.
Where was your previous co-op?
The Center of Public Health Readiness and Response at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Stranger Things, Flower of Evil, and anything thriller related.
Aisa Feratovic
Class Year: Class of 2024Major: Marketing, Entertainment and Arts Management Minor
Hometown: Long Branch, NJ
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor to help guide students through the co-op process because there is a fantastic opportunity for every student and their goals in the co-op portal. I have accumulated knowledge, experience, skills, and helpful tips that I would love to provide interested students with regarding career development and finding the next best co-op fit (for their passions and skill set!) I want to help students build their resumes, find resources that will allow them to stand out, and help them feel confident about the co-op process and taking on their dream roles.
Where was your previous co-op?
My previous co-op was with Harding Loevner, a global asset management firm, where I worked as a Production Associate.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Love Island U.K.
Brittany Hood
Class Year: Class of 2024Major: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Bensalem, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
During all three of my incredible co-ops, I gained so many skills and made many meaningful connections. I adapted to the competitive interview process with a positive attitude and an open mind, and with the help of my advisors and peers. I want to be a resource for other students to turn to, so they can get as much out of their co-op experience as possible. I’m excited to give back to the Drexel community and support my fellow Dragons as they begin their co-op journey!
Where was your previous co-op?
My first co-op was with Criterion Laboratories Inc, as a Field Analyst. My second co-op was with the Panettieri Lab at Rutgers University, as a Research Technician. My third, and final co-op was at Century Therapeutics on the ImmunoOncology team, as a Research Assistant.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
My favorite show of all time is The Chosen, but I love binge-watching New Girl.
Divyanshi Soni
Class Year: Class of 2024Major: Finance and Business Analytics
Hometown: Indore, India
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
Throughout my journey at Drexel, I have been fortunate to have experienced the profound impact of peer mentoring. When I started my first co-op application, a Peer Mentor provided invaluable guidance and insights that paved the way for a successful application process. This experience shaped my belief that giving back is essential and hence, becoming a Peer Mentor is a privilege to create a positive ripple effect, paying forward the generosity that once shaped my path. I have always found joy in helping others and this role provides me with the perfect opportunity to empower fellow students and to equip them with the tools to navigate challenges and thrive.
Where was your previous co-op?
I have had two previous co-op experiences. The first one was with Puratos Corporation, where I worked as a Financial Analyst co-op. Following that, I joined Chubb, contributing to their overseas division as a co-op specializing in International Financial Reporting. Presently, I’m gearing up for my third co-op at Venerable. In this upcoming role, I will be working with their Valuation Department, as an Actuarial co-op. These opportunities have provided me with diverse insights and skillsets, further contributing towards a well-rounded professional growth journey.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
How I Met Your Mother
Esta Jacob
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Finance and Legal Studies
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
During my co-op search, I found difficulty in wanting to make the most of my co-op experience, as I am in the four-year with one co-op program. It felt like I had to choose between trying a career, getting relevant experience, and networking. Through the advice of others, I was able to get some of these questions answered before my co-op experience, really allowing me to focus on gaining the true direction I needed out of my time at my co-op.
My co-op was at Lombard Odier Investment Management, a New York-based asset management branch of an ultra-high net worth Swiss bank. The majority of my work was in data entry, but I also gained the opportunity to sit in on client meetings, and network with professionals within the New York and global branches. Additionally, I was able to work with other departments such as Legal, Compliance, Operations, Trading, etc. This co-op was a great opportunity for me to gain exposure to the industry and meet key professionals within this industry.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
MacGyver (the modern one, not the original), Bones, Castle, and Say Yes to the Dress.
Favour Ujoatuonu
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Environmental Science
Hometown: Owings Mills, MD
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor to help other students with questions they may feel more comfortable asking a peer. Especially, when applying for a job or co-op for the first time, there are certain things that can make you nervous and it’s easier to ask a fellow student.
My first co-op was in Philadelphia with PECO Energy in their Environmental Services department. My second co-op was in Cape Town, South Africa with the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation in their Research and Policy Program.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
I have a variety of shows that I binge-watch randomly, depending on how I am feeling. I am currently binge-watching Girlfriends and Is It Cake.
Grace Carson
Class Year: Class of 2026
Major: Economics and Data Science
Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
Attending multiple colleges and struggling through different majors granted me experience in many areas including Business, Engineering, and IT (Computer Science and Data Science.) I want to help other people who are struggling with interdisciplinary interests and academic-major indecision and confusion. I couldn’t have gotten to where I am without the help of a Mentor, and I want to give back what advice I can!
Associate of Corporate Performance Management, Eliassen Group;
Quantitative Investment Analyst (Global Allocation Team), BlackRock
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
How I Met Your Mother, Dance Moms, and The Witcher.
Julianne Wagner
Class Year: Class of 2026
Major: Real Estate Management and Development
Hometown: Havertown, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
My interest in becoming a Peer Mentor began as I prepared for my first co-op experience. During this time, I met with many career counselors at Steinbright that supported me in applying to co-ops and in answering questions about my interests and potential career paths! I feel confident that through my planning, leadership skills, and previous experience, I can also assist students in these next steps. As well as support them in finding their right career fit, as this is a particular challenge that comes up for many people (even post-graduation!)
My first co-op was as a Leasing Agent for OneFive Capital, a privately owned real-estate company. This position included a wide variety of tasks to fill the 280 units of our building and reach full occupancy, during leasing season. During this position, I assisted with touring prospects, leasing units, and monitoring outstanding balances of tenants.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
My favorite TV show to binge-watch is The Mick or Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
Katherine Watkins
Class Year: Class of 2026
Major: Nursing
Hometown: Watsontown, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor because I faced hardships when entering my first co-op. I learned that co-ops aren’t always what you hope for or want them to be. So, I want to be a friend to help discuss the process of co-op, from start to finish. Then, I can eventually help them advocate for themselves during their co-op, so they can receive a more valuable experience to help them in the future.
My co-op was at the University of Pennsylvania's Student Health Services.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
The Queen's Gambit
Kawthar Aguibi
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Marketing, Business Analytics and Sociology Minor
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor because I believe that my experiences could be valuable to other students during their search process. I want to be a resource that helps aid the nerves and uncertainty of other students because I myself dealt with a lot of anxiety around the search process, interviewing and being on the job. I'm so excited to support Dragons embarking on their co-op journeys!
Where was your previous co-op?
Talent Acquisition Coordinator at Sephora; HR Communications co-op at Comcast, Business; Acquisition Marketing co-op at Comcast
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Manifest, Nikita and New Girl!
Lakshmi Parvathinathan
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Lower Merion, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor because I want to share my experiences of applying to co-ops and help guide younger students who may feel lost, as they navigate the co-op process.
For my first (and only) co-op, I worked as a Clinical Research Assistant at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Jane the Virgin
Leo Koncos
Class Year: Class of 2026
Major: Real Estate Management and Development
Hometown: Wallingford/Swarthmore, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I wanted to become a Peer Mentor because I had a lot of trouble finding my first co-op. I got way more interview invites than I had expected and this was very difficult because at the time, I was juggling commuting, Drexel activities, and a part-time job. I want to help my peers by being a resource for the interview process.
My last co-op was in customer support at a German company called, Va-Q-Tec. This was a shipping/manufacturing company that made insulated boxes that pharmaceutical companies would use to ship product in. My job was to manage company accounts and perform general internal sales duties. I also assisted in several financial analysis projects for the company and helped the company open a new location in Kansas City, MO.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
I jump shows often, but without a doubt, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is one of my absolute favorites.
Micaela Kersey
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Environmental Science; Geoscience and Biological Science minors
Hometown: Upper Chichester, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor to support other students who are doing the co-op program because it can be confusing and intimidating. After completing my 3 co-ops, I am confident that I can help ease the anxiety that comes with the job search process.
GIS Technician, Upper Darby Township; Diatom Research, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University; Scorpion Research, The Natural History Museum of Crete
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
New Girl
Nalo Russell
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Global Studies, Spanish minor (pre-med track)
Hometown: New York, NY
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor so that I could support others on similar journeys as me. I chose an unconventional path in that I am a global studies major on the pre-med track; as a non-science major it was difficult for me to find co-op. Therefore, I want to be that "mirror" for another black female on the pre-med track as they search for co-ops in their field of interest and navigate the challenges that may arise along the way.
Where was your previous co-op?
HIAS PA and UPenn Student Health Clinic
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Rick and Morty
Nisha Patel
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Biological Sciences; minors in Neuroscience, Psychology, and Science, Technology & Society (STS)
Hometown: Iselin, NJ
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
As someone who has done two research co-ops and intends on completing a third, I feel I have the knowledge that may be helpful to underclassmen, who are seeking research opportunities in STEM. I remember when I was applying for my first co-op, I reached out to a Steinbright Peer Mentor, and they were able to provide me with guidance and reassurance for how to go about the co-op application and interview process. I want to pass down this torch of information I have acquired, to assist fellow Drexel Dragons and encourage students to pursue experiences in research!
Where was your previous co-op?
For my first co-op, I was a Biomedical Engineering Research Assistant at the McManus Lab in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. For my second co-op, I was a Research Assistant at the Alhadeff Lab in Monell Chemical Senses Center, where I currently work part-time.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Definitely Friends! I even have a pillowcase of Joey Tribbiani that I actually got from a lab Secret Santa!
Prigatee Narain
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Mauritius
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
Becoming a Peer Mentor is my way of giving back to the Drexel community and a means by which I can help others through the lens of my experience. The whole process of job application can be quite nerve-wracking, but if one gets the support and reassurance from someone who has had a similar journey, then the process becomes more gratifying and rewarding.
Where was your previous co-op?
My one and only co-op was at the Eisch lab in CHOP and Perelman School of Medicine, where I gained valuable research experience.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Criminal Minds
Prisha Tapiawala
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Finance and Business Analytics
Hometown: Cherry Hill, NJ
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Steinbright Peer Mentor to facilitate a smooth transition for students throughout the unique co-op experience that Drexel offers. I believe it is extremely important to rely upon a support system, as a student starts their professional journey. I hope to help build confidence in other students to ensure that they internally feel ready to take the next step in their life!
Where was your previous co-op?
Accounting Data Operations at The Michaels Organization, and Finance & Business Operations Analyst at Lockheed Martin.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Friends and New Girl.
Sam Conway
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Business and Engineering; minors in Operations, Economics, and Business Analytics
Hometown: Allentown, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I became a Peer Mentor because I wanted to help students come to love Drexel for all the reasons that I love Drexel. Although most people think Drexel is a place to pursue your passions, I believe Drexel is the best place to discover your passions. As a result, I would like to be a part of another student’s journey towards discovering what they are most passionate about.
Where was your previous co-op?
I have worked as a Field Engineer, starting and managing projects in multiple locations across the country; Key Accounts and Economic Development, for a utility company in the American South; Assistant Project Manager for a consultant group, that had me managing several large-scale projects that were upgrading the gas infrastructure of a major American city.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
The Mentalist – this show perfectly balances lightheartedness and advancement of the plot.
Shaily Panwar
Class Year: Class of 2024Major: Business Analytics and Finance
Hometown: Indore, India
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
The co-op process is something very new to students, and it takes a while to learn from past mistakes. I wanted to be a Peer Mentor so that I can help students to better understand the process and have a better co-op experience.
Where was your previous co-op?
Client Account Profile co-op, Brown Brothers Harriman; Global Treaty Finance Analyst, Chubb Inc; Private Wealth Management co-op, Goldman Sachs
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
My favorite show to binge watch is Stranger Things.
Shyam Shah
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Finance and Economics
Hometown: Holland, PA
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
During my first co-op search, I found myself having some difficulties figuring out what my career trajectory should look like, and it made me realize how many other co-ops are in the same stressful position. I was lucky enough to have plenty of support from my peers and advisors - so I want to make the effort to give back!
Where was your previous co-op?
Financial Analyst at Goldman Sachs in New York City.
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Naruto, Avatar: the Last Airbender, and The Mandalorian.
Utsav Ganeriwala
Class Year: Class of 2025
Major: Economics and Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Raniganj, India
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
I have always received an immense amount of feedback and support from the Peer Mentor program at Drexel. The mentorship I have received has been invaluable and shaped me to become who I am. In the same spirit and feeling of gratitude, I wish to give back to the Drexel community by sharing the advice I have received over the years, with the mistakes I have made and the lessons I’ve learned.
Where was your previous co-op?
Product Analyst at Apex Fintech Solutions
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
How I Met Your Mother
Will Morrow
Class Year: Class of 2024
Major: Music Industry (Recording Arts & Music Production)
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Why did you want to become a Peer Mentor?
As a transfer student, I had to figure out a lot on my own regarding the co-op process, and I know how hard a job search can be. I want to be a resource to anyone who needs additional perspective in these next steps; the extra support I wish I would have gotten!
Where was your previous co-op?
Record Plant Recording Studios, Los Angeles, CA (West Hollywood)
What is your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
Shameless, Suits, and Atlanta.