Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) are vital at SMU, offering support to fellow students across campus. This year, Pathways to Business and Industry partnered with the program to create a dedicated PAL role for students exploring careers in business and industry. The inaugural PBI PAL, Tiffany Nguyen, is a sophomore majoring in Computer Science and Data Science with a minor in Cognitive Science.
Tiffany’s academic path wasn’t straightforward. Initially planning to double major in business and computer science, she discovered her passions weren’t within a business major but within courses offered by the Lyle School of Engineering, which led her to focus on her major in computer science. Her computer science background is preparing her for a future in business and industry. “Computer Science at SMU gives me a balance of technical, leadership, and communication skills. Our faculty encourages group work, which you don’t always get at other universities,” she noted.
As a THRIVE Scholar and Rotunda Scholar, Tiffany benefited from peer mentors who introduced her to opportunities like the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) She appreciates the flexibility of her BA in Computer Science, which allows her to take electives and pursue her minor in Cognitive Science. A psychology class she took for her minor was particularly impactful.
Balancing her many roles, Tiffany emphasizes the importance of passion. “If you have a passion for something, you can balance it. It’s what keeps me going!”
For students exploring career options, Tiffany advises, “Don’t be afraid. If you want to go into business, go for it. I realized I could be a software engineer at a finance firm, combining the business and technical aspects I enjoy.”
Tiffany’s enthusiasm and leadership shine through in her role as PBI PAL. She meets weekly with students, guiding them on academic and career paths while helping them discover their passions.
If you know students interested in business and industry, encourage them explore the PBI program and connect with Tiffany for mentorship and support.