Academic Peer Advisor

Apply to be an APA

The Academic Peer Advisors (APA) program, in partnership with Academic Advising, provides the student body opportunities to connect with trained peer mentors in rich academic and extracurricular experiences. Students interact with APAs via office hours, email, and events hosted by the Academic Advising office. Students can discuss transitioning to university academic life, course selections, major decisions, extracurricular activities, graduate school plans, and other topics related to their academic journey. By incorporating peer support and expertise, the Academic Advising office aims to support students in making informed decisions regarding their academic experiences at NYU Shanghai.

Welcome from APAs

Programs & Events

Summer Walk-In Hours

Online (Zoom)
July 27, 2026 - August 27, 2026 (Specific Schedule TBD)

Summer Mixers (Online via Zoom, please sign up here):

Academic Adjustment & Registration Support
- Thursday, July 23, 8:30-9:30 PM, Shanghai Time
- Tuesday, August 11, 10:00-11:00 AM, Shanghai Time
Academic Exploration & Experiences Sharing
- Tuesday, July 28, 10:00-11:00 AM, Shanghai Time
- Thursday, August 6, 8:30-9:30 PM, Shanghai Time

Questions? Please email shanghai.peeradvising@nyu.edu

Meet with our APAs

Jiri Kozma

Jiri is a junior majoring in Social Science (International Relations track) with extensive research experience. He had previously worked with the European Union and the Czech Academy of Sciences and is currently conducting research through the Dean’s Undergraduate Research Fund (DURF) program. In addition to sharing insights from his research experiences, Jiri is happy to discuss how to manage academics alongside extracurricular involvement. As an APA, Jiri is eager to help students plan their academic schedule, maximize their academic opportunities, and maintain a healthy balance throughout their university journey.

Yiduo Lu

Yiduo is a senior majoring in Neural Science and Data Science. She has gained research experience across different labs in neuroscience and cognitive science, where she explored topics related to language, decision-making, and computational modeling. Beyond the lab, she has been actively involved in performance programs and the drama club for two years. As a true ENFP with a love for photography, books, film, and theatre, she brings warmth and curiosity to every conversation. As an APA, she hopes to help students explore their academic interests, discover what excites them, and connect those interests to meaningful academic and career paths.

Maralmaa Tsolmon (Mira)

Mira Tsolmon is a sophomore intending to major in Computer Science. In addition to serving as an Academic Peer Advisor, she is a participant in Reality Show Shanghai 2026. Mira enjoys reading books, watching movies, singing, playing bridge, and trying new food, and she is currently teaching herself to play the piano. As an APA, she hopes to support students as they navigate academic and campus life while creating a welcoming environment for questions and conversations. If you enjoy Avatar (whether the bald boy or the blue people), she would be happy to chat!

Kylie Ostonal (Daze)

Daze is a sophomore majoring in Social Science (Psychology track), with intended minors in Cinema Studies and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. He is involved on campus as an Athletics Center Student Worker, Admissions Ambassador, Orientation Ambassador and First-Year Dialogue Facilitator. Daze also holds positions as Vice President of the Thespian Club and Social Media Manager for the Qilin Fencing Club. Additionally, he was a part of the First-Year Fellowship Circle, which strengthened his interest in social work. As an APA, Daze is excited to share the experiences he has gained throughout his academic journey and is more than willing to provide advice and support to students.

Chengxuan Xie (Michael)

Michael (Chengxuan) Xie is a sophomore intending to major in Computer Science and Mathematics. Apart from his role as an APA, he serves as the Class of 2029 Representative in the Student Government, where he works to connect students with campus resources and advocate for student voices. Passionate about both academics and student life, he is always happy to chat about course planning, academic opportunities, campus involvement, and adjusting to university life. Outside the classroom, Chengxuan enjoys basketball. He is looking forward to meeting new students and helping them make the most of their NYU Shanghai experience.

Yutian Zhao (Zoe)

Zoe is a sophomore intending to major in Data Science with a minor in Mathematics. Apart from her role as an APA, she serves as an information assistant at the Academic Resource Center and interest group ambassador for the Center for Career Development. She is always happy to support students in finding a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular commitments. Interested in swimming and piano, she is also looking forward to talking about music and sports with students.

APAs’ Reflections & Tips for First-Years

FAQs

Both Academic Advisors and APAs are dedicated to supporting students’ academic success.

Academic Advisors holistically support students’ academic, professional, and personal goals by providing explanations of institutional policies, managing student records, monitoring students’ overall degree progress, and offering other referrals and resources.
APAs supplement the Academic Advisor’s work by offering peer support and insights from their own academic experiences and perspectives. For instance, APAs share their personal experiences about specific courses, major choices, academic adjustments, and various strategies to navigate NYU Shanghai.