Peer Advisors

Peer Advisors are Psychology majors who complement the SSO advising services by sharing their knowledge of and experience with lower division requirements and upper division classes, experience with student groups on campus, preparation for life beyond the bachelor's degree, and use of various campus resources.

Got a question? Ask a Peer!

Peer Advisors are available

 during Fall and Spring semesters for drop-in advising. 

The Peer Advisors can also be contacted via email at psychsso@berkeley.edu.

Chase Lam

Hi, I'm Chase Lam, a third year studying Psychology and Legal Studies with a minor in Anthropology. I grew up in San Jose, CA. I hope to pursue a joint program in receiving a JD/PhD in clinical psychology to serve as a forensic psychologist while working with non-profit organizations to provide accessible legal information. Ultimately, I would like to serve the local community here in Alameda county and in the county of Santa Clara. In my free time, I like to do indoor bouldering with friends and try out the various local food places.

Jade Williams

Jade is a 4th-year Psychology Major studying to eventually become a child psychologist. She is from Pasadena, CA, and enjoys traveling, off-roading with her family, and going to concerts. Jade has interned with EOP, served as co-retention coordinator for BRRC, and is working as an administrative assistant at a private practice. She is very interested in helping the youth in her community and becoming a resource to those who need it. If you have any questions, Jade is more than happy to help!

Izzy Barba

Izzy (she/her) is a fourth year student studying Psychology and Sociology at UC Berkeley, with interests in the developmental, clinical, and social aspects of psychology. She hopes to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology and continue to create supportive spaces for others, especially the youth in her community. She is from San Diego, CA and can be found enjoying the sun at the beach or a nearby park, going to a concert, or trying out new food spots with friends during her free time. Please reach out to her for any support about navigating Berkeley undergrad, studying abroad as a psychology major, double-majoring, or about any shared interests :)

Ruben Cortez

My name is Ruben Cortez, and I am a senior double majoring in Psychology and Neuroscience. I am from Delano, California, which is in the Central Valley. Previously, I worked as a REP research assistant in the Hinshaw Lab and served as Finance Chair for the Latin American Leadership Society. My academic interests lie in neuropsychology, and I plan to pursue graduate school to continue research in this field. Outside of academics, I run an e-commerce business and enjoy exploring new food spots, playing sudoku, and playing the accordion. I hope to connect with students who are seeking research opportunities, help them feel confident in their academic path, and meet as many students as possible. Most of all, I want to be a friend to anyone looking for guidance, encouragement, or simply someone to share experiences with.

Miranda Medina

Miranda (Pronounced: mee-rahn-dah) (They/She) is a Third-year student studying Psychology at UC Berkeley, with interests in the clinical aspects of psychology. She hopes to pursue a Master’s in Social Work or a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and continue creating supportive and affirming spaces for others, particularly around mental health and advocacy for first-generation students. They are from East Side San Jose and in their free time enjoy going to concerts, spending time with friends, going to pop-up events, and love blind boxes.

Nixon Cheng

Hi, I’m Nixon Bobman Cheng, a first-generation college student and senior transfer at UC Berkeley, double majoring in Psychology and Cognitive Science. My passion lies in bridging the gap between children with special education needs, mental health, and their parents. After years of tutoring in both NGOs and private settings, working with youth experiencing developmental delays, ADHD, and behavioral challenges, I became deeply committed to pursuing psychology research on child development and education. On campus, I am part of the TRIO, SSRP, and NavCal communities, which have been instrumental in supporting my academic journey. Currently, I am an honors student conducting research on how parental sensitivity affects children’s socioemotional development. My long-term goal is to pursue a PhD in clinical or school psychology, specializing in children’s education, treatment, and assessment for students with special educational needs. Beyond academics, I’m an avid cook and a dedicated audiophile (a lover of high-fidelity audio systems). Please feel free to join my advising hours if you have any questions—I’d be glad to connect! :)

Dan Tirado

I am a senior of Psychology and Anthropology, with prior training at Stanford and hands-on experience as a Clinical Research Assistant, Behavioral Therapist, and Developmental Services Worker. My background bridges academic research and clinical practice, with a focus on mental health, social inequality, neurodiversity, and the cultural processes that shape human experience. My goal is to continue developing as a researcher and future Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, contributing to the advancement of mental health care models that are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and sustainable