Ivy Student Mentors

Olivia Kim is a sophomore at Harvard University studying Social Studies and Government. On campus, Olivia is a board director for the Harvard Undergraduate US-China Relations, a club dedicated to providing Chinese high school students with six educational conferences annually. Olivia is also an active research assistant with Columbia University’s Energy Opportunity Lab, where she analyzes how local governments can ensure low-income households receive sustainable energy at flexible prices. This summer, Olivia spent her time also in the government space as an intern for the California Department of Finance, where she enjoyed learning about the state budget process. In her free time, Olivia loves baking with friends and attending zumba classes!

Hi, my name is Fiona Herzog. I am a junior at the University of Pennsylvania studying Computer Science and Communications. While I didn’t initially know what I was going to study at Penn, I came to love computer science through finding community in the department. As I met more students, talked to professors, became a TA, I came to appreciate this vibrant community so much that I was motivated enough to pursue the major. With regards to communications, I have always loved reading cultural commentary, watching multi-hour long Youtube video essays, and long drawn out conversations. Thus, when I came to college, this major of choice was a no-brainer. In my free time, I love exploring the city, painting, drawing, and running.

Hi, I’m Shelly Lin, a junior from Michigan studying Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry at Yale University.
On campus, I’m passionate about research at the intersection of molecular science and human health. As a dedicated student in my major, I aim to build a strong foundation in structural biology, biochemical processes, and biophysical methods. In the lab, I get energized by designing experiments, troubleshooting protocols, and collaborating with peers to push scientific inquiry forward.
When I’m not in the lab or in classes, I love going on matcha runs, strolling around campus, and spending laid-back time with friends—usually over good food. I also enjoy working out (it’s a great stress reliever!) and taking naps whenever I can.

Jenny Kim is an undergraduate at Cornell University, where she studies Public Policy, Law & Society and Information Science. Originally hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area CA, she infuses her academic work with a unique West Coast perspective.
On campus, Jenny is deeply interested in the intersection of public policy and technology. She has experience working as a legal operations intern at a tech startup, and previously participated in a congressional campaign. She is also a member of the Cornell Intellectual Property & Ethics Club, where she engages in policy debates and intellectual property discourse. Phi Alpha Delta | Cornell University
In her free time, Jenny loves reading, painting, and cooking—creative outlets that help her recharge and maintain balance.
As a mentor, Jenny is excited to support students in shaping their academic paths, navigating policy- or tech-oriented career options, and finding confidence in pursuing interdisciplinary interests.

Hi y’all! I’m Ryan Noorbakhsh, a sophomore undergraduate at Harvard University majoring in Computer Science and Statistics with a minor in Mathematics. I love working at the intersection of data, technology, and problem-solving, and I’m especially interested in how computational tools can be used to tackle big, real-world challenges. I’ve had the chance to gain industry experience in computer science through internships and projects, where I worked on everything from building software to analyzing complex datasets.

On the research side, I’m part of the Zomorrodi Lab at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. There, I use machine learning to study the microbiome, which has given me a lot of hands-on experience with algorithms, data science, and interdisciplinary research.

Outside of academics, I really enjoy teaching and mentoring. I’ve taught almost all AP and IB classes. I know how valuable it is to have someone a few steps ahead to help guide the way, and I’m excited to do that for my mentees. When I’m not working on school or research, you’ll probably find me on the basketball court, reading, or exploring new ideas about science and philosophy.

Hi, my name is Mandy Zhang, and I’m a senior at Yale University studying Computer Science, graduating in December 2026. On campus, I conduct machine learning research, work as a student technician at our technology helpdesk, and teach programming lessons to middle schoolers in New Haven. Outside of academics, I’m an avid outdoors enthusiast—I lead backpacking trips for incoming freshmen through our orientation program and enjoy exploring different hikes along the East Coast. I also love printmaking, running, and trying out new cooking recipes!

Hi, my name is Nadiya and I’m a sophomore at University of Pennsylvania, originally from New York City. I’m majoring in Finance & Marketing, and I’m passionate about how business strategy and data converge to drive innovation in the marketplace.

On campus, I’m active in the Wharton Undergraduate Marketing Club, where I work on organizing case competitions and speaker events to connect students with industry professionals. I also interned last summer at a boutique investment firm, where I supported financial modeling, market research, and client pitch preparation. In addition, I’m a research assistant in Penn’s business school, helping analyze consumer behavior datasets and contributing to marketing-analytics studies.

In my free time, I love trying new coffees around the city, exploring different cafés, and hanging out with friends over good conversation and food. I also enjoy casual runs, sketching, and staying up to date on trends in fintech and consumer tech.

As your mentor, I’m excited to guide you through building your understanding of finance, marketing, and analytics — whether that means helping you prepare for internships, refine your business case skills, or explore how data and storytelling intersect in the business world