Council Member Directory

William began his journey at Columbia GS during fall of 24, he is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Financial Economics (Class of 2028). Prior to Columbia, he served in the U.S. Army from 2018 to 2024, holding several high-responsibility positions across command headquarters such as Cultural Advisor, Protocol Officer, Executive Assistant, Budget Analyst, and Linguist. During the 24-25 academic year, he served as Director of Public Affairs for the MILVETS, planning coordinating, and executing engagement events and liaising with university leadership. In addition, he also served as a member of the food insecurity committee of the university. Since staring at GS, William have planned and executed numerous large events such as the Military Ball, Food drive, Campus Social, and Toys4tots drive, along with numerous smaller events, he also help mentor veteran applicants through the Service to School program. William joined the GSSC with a commitment on promoting and fostering a more positive and engaging campus culture, providing the best possible for the community.

Venska Pongoh is a junior at Columbia GS. She has extensive history with treasurial duties and is excited to take on the Financial Coordinator role in this upcoming semester.

Talia Ofek is a junior in the Dual BA program with Tel Aviv University (TAU). At TAU, she studied Psychology and Entrepreneurship, and she is now pursuing a degree in Cognitive Science at Columbia. Talia is passionate about building community and fostering positive environments wherever she goes. 

While at TAU, she served on Student Council as VP of Communications, where she launched several initiatives to strengthen student life and acted as a liaison between students, club members, and the administration. She also gained hands-on experience working with two startups through her role as a Project Manager for a Business Club, where she led a team of students, communicated with company executives, and immersed herself in Israel’s fast-paced startup world. 

At GSSC, Talia is looking forward to her role as Communications Coordinator by supporting students, creating connections, and enriching student culture. In her free time, you can find her running in Riverside Park, discovering new overpriced coffee spots, and spending time with her friends in the incredible GS community!

Stephane Kakou is a First-Year and Junior at Columbia GS majoring in Political Science–Statistics, with plans to minor in Sustainable Development or Anthropology. Originally from Côte d’Ivoire—the world’s leading cocoa producer—Stephane brings a global perspective shaped by resilience, service, and cross-cultural experience.

Fluent in French, English, and Spanish (with a growing interest in Italian), he loves genuine conversations and building connections across cultures. You will almost always see Stephane smiling—he genuinely loves people, no matter who you are, what you do, or where you’re from—and he encourages classmates to feel free to come talk to him anytime. Stephane is a passionate advocate grounded in the values of kindness, compassion, and humility. He believes that anyone can become an element of change if they discover their true purpose in life. His leadership journey reflects that conviction: among others experiences, he served as Student Body President at his previous institution, representing over 20,000 students, and he is the Founding President of UNIHEART Global, a youth-powered nonprofit uniting volunteers across more than 19 countries. He also volunteers with the Red Cross, extending his commitment to service beyond campus.
During his time in leadership, Stephane launched initiatives that addressed food insecurity, Domestic and International Students matters, strengthened student representation and school spirit, and created international opportunities for collaboration. His ability to unite people, paired with his innovative vision and nice personality, continues to inspire those around him.

Outside of leadership and academics, Stephane enjoys Latin music, Arts, playing tennis and badminton, and watching science fiction, adventure, and comedy movies when possible—reminders that balance, fun, and imagination are just as important as hard work. To end, his favorite colors are Orange and Baby-Blue.

Sophia Wen is a sophomore student at Columbia University from Irvine, California, majoring in Biology and minoring in Music Performance on the pre-med track. Passionate about health equity and accessibility, medicine, and education, she is eager to lead initiatives that provide various health- and wellness-related resources to students, increase preventative care and intervention methods, and create projects that raise awareness about mental, physical, and sexual health. She particularly enjoys working at the intersection of communication and advocacy to address issues of campus representation, accessibility, and health.

Prior to coming to Columbia, Sophia earned her Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) License and served as a Youth Outreach Representative for the City of Irvine government. In these roles, she worked directly with long-term care patients from underserved communities and served as a liaison between the City of Irvine government and students in local schools. In coordination with schools and citywide community services, she organized and hosted various events aimed at solving student issues, including health and wellness workshops, speaker series, civic engagement and voter registration, and career planning panels that featured field specialists. In the past, she has also collaborated with various school faculties, nonprofit organizations, and students to plan Mental Health Awareness Weeks, creating activities that provided resources and reduced the stigma surrounding mental health.

Outside of her work at GSSC and Columbia, Sophia enjoys sampling new foods and cuisines, going on boba and matcha cafe runs, cooking and baking, playing classical piano, photography, graphic design, content creation, journalism, and traveling.

She is originally from just outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is currently a senior in the Dual BA Program with Trinity College Dublin. She majors in Neuroscience and Behavior and minors in Visual Arts. She is excited to rejoin the Communications Committee and is hoping to run a GSSC podcast.

Robert Mulvey is thrilled to begin his work as a University Senator representing the School of General Studies. Prior to Columbia, Robert performed with numerous professional ballet companies around the United States. Robert fought for dancers’ labor rights as a union organizer and directed outreach initiatives. His career was dedicated to protecting dancers and expanding arts access to underserved communities.

Robert is pursuing a B.A. in Philosophy with a concentration in Dance, with plans to pursue research in performance and media studies. His academic interests center on aesthetics, critical theory, and performance studies, with a focus on the relationship between movement, embodiment, and knowledge production. His research is driven by the rich insights scholarship can achieve at the intersection of dance and philosophy.

At Columbia, Robert has been actively involved in student leadership and advocacy, serving as a Senior Resident Advisor, GS Social Media Ambassador, and participant on University committees. His Senate priorities include expanding financial aid access, supporting FGLI and nontraditional students, improving arts and performance space availability, and fostering cross-school collaboration and integration.

Robert is committed to amplifying the voices of GS students and advancing policies that promote equity, academic flexibility, and interschool engagement across the University.

Paul is a senior in the SciencesPo Dual BA program, majoring in Economics and Political Science. A dedicated advocate for the blind and low-vision community, he served on GSSC as Students with Disabilities Representative last year. Returning as Chief of Finance, he is excited to leverage his past managerial and internship experiences to ensure that GSSC’s resources are managed strategically and in a way that reflects the diverse needs of the student body.

Oscar Wolfe is a junior in Columbia’s dual degree program with The Jewish Theological Seminary of America (JTS). He is pursuing degrees in American Studies and Jewish Ethics.

Oscar began serving on GSSC in his freshman year as the Student Services and Academic Affairs Representative. In this role, he spearheaded the effort to permanently extend the pass/fail deadline for General Studies and Columbia College students, writing a statement that was unanimously passed by GSSC, cosigned by CCSC, and implemented by the Committee on Instruction.

As a sophomore, Oscar led GSSC’s Policy Committee as Vice President of Policy. As VP Policy, he more than doubled funding for GSSC’s subsidized MetroCard program, and wrote a statement signed by ten student councils throughout Columbia advocating for a University-wide version of the program. Oscar also founded the Stakeholder Committee, which ensures that student leaders throughout GS have access to council leadership, and provides GSSC with advice from the school’s diverse communities.

Outside of GSSC, Oscar has interned for two congressional campaigns, the Minnesota Senate, the Minnesota House of Representatives, and a tech startup. At JTS, he was elected First-Year Class President, and is currently serving as an Admissions Intern and Resident Advisor for the dual degree program. When Oscar’s not working, you can find him pacing the length of the Tomb of Ulysses S. Grant on 122nd St.

Olga Jagiellowicz is a junior in the Dual BA Program with Sciences Po Paris, majoring in Political Science and Psychology. She was born and raised in Poland and spent her first two years of university in France before moving to New York.

Her academic interests lie at the intersection of international affairs and human behavior, with a particular focus on multilateral diplomacy, decision-making, and the role of psychology in policy processes. She is especially interested in the security of transatlantic relations, as well as conflict resolution and negotiation.

Alongside her studies, Olga is a Research Assistant at Columbia University’s Center for Justice and a representative for the Sciences Po Dual BA in the School of General Studies Student Council. She is also the Co-founder of Impactional, a youth-led initiative focused on civic engagement and international cooperation.

Outside of class, you can find her ballroom dancing, attending live music and cultural events, or exploring different parts of New York with a cup of coffee in hand!

Nora is a senior in the Dual BA Program with Sciences Po, majoring in Economics and Political Science. She is passionate about student advocacy and fostering inclusive environments. This past year, she served as the Academic Affairs Representative on GSSC’s Policy Committee, leading initiatives to expand research opportunities for students and reform the Latin Honors system. 

Nora takes a collaborative approach to policy, with a focus on balancing long-term strategies and achieving tangible results. Her work this past year has reinforced her belief in the power of listening, staying organized, and committing to advocacy that truly benefits the community. As the incoming Vice President of Policy, she’s excited to continue building on the momentum of the Policy Committee and ensure the voices of GS students are heard. 

Outside of her academic and advocacy work, Nora enjoys rewatching Studio Ghibli films, exploring farmer’s markets, and discovering hiking trails in New York City. She looks forward to further contributing to the General Studies community during her senior year.

Nichakul Punnahitanon or “Nicky” is a junior in the Dual BA Program with Sciences Po, majoring in Political Science and minoring in Human Rights. She is from Bangkok, Thailand, and has always been passionate about building communities and helping people feel at home wherever they are.

At Sciences Po, she served as Head of Communications for the Student Council, where she created student life guidebooks, Instagram campaigns, and reels to help incoming students adjust to life in France. She also co-captained the Southeast Asian Club, organizing cultural events and potlucks to celebrate diversity.

Dance has also been a big part of Nicky’s life. She did traditional Thai dance professionally and competitively from a young age, later competing in jazz, and has been a lifelong cheerleader. At Sciences Po, she founded and captained the Thai Dance Club, captained the cheerleading team, and performed K-pop covers and J-pop dance. For her, dance is about expression, teamwork, and community—values she carries into everything she does.

She also enjoys creating social media content—though she insists she isn’t an “influencer.” She’s excited not only to bring her creativity, communication skills, and community spirit to the student body, but also to share her Columbia journey on her own Instagram—so expect a BTS of student council life, Nicky-style!

Neomi Li Simoni is a sophomore at Columbia University's School of General Studies. After seven years in the cybersecurity field, she is now pursuing her pre-medical track with aspirations to major in Biophysics, and the long-term goal of an MD-PhD. She conducts independent research in the Department of Microbiology & Immunology of Columbia University Medical Center. 

As the Alumni Affairs Representative of the GS community, Neomi Li is committed to strengthening connections between current students and alumni by initiating mentorship opportunities and contributing to the lasting networks. She hopes to enrich the GS student experience by ensuring that every student has access to guidance and support needed to thrive.

When she is not on campus or in the lab, that's because Neomi Li is probably exploring new hiking routes (without steep elevation, though!).

Micaella is a Freshman in the GS program, majoring in English and Political Science. As the Veteran Representative for campus life, Micaella is passionate about student life, fostering inclusive environments and getting to know the GS student body. 

Micaella is dedicated to enhancing the student experience both on and off the campus. She brings energy, vision and is enthusiastic to meet be a part of this community, hoping to make this a memorable year for all GS students. Micaella has a hands-on and collaborative approach. Being honest, dedicated and thinking outside the box, she hopes to deliver amazing events all year round that add to our campus life. 

Outside of GSSC, Micaella loves to explore New York (if you need a restaurant recommendation go to her). She is an avid reader, and an eager conversationist.

Maria is a junior in the Dual BA Program with Sciences Po, majoring in Cognitive Science and minoring in Sociology. She was born and raised in Romania, but spent the past two years in France before coming to New York.

While she set aside studying Political Science after her time at Sciences Po, she still considers representation processes, advocacy, and institutional decision-making to be her biggest passions. 

Outside of her academic work, she enjoys playing table tennis, watching stand-up shows, listening to live music, and exploring New York.

Mai First is a first-year student in the Dual BA program with the Jewish Theological Seminary and the School of General Studies, studying Data Science at Columbia and Jewish Ethics at JTS. Originally from California, Mai brings with her a love for food, sunsets, and connecting with people - plus plenty of stories about her adorable dog, Honey.
Passionate about leadership and service, Mai has held thirteen positions over the past five years, each with growing responsibilities. Most notably, she served as Head of Community Service for a region of 800 teens in Silicon Valley, where she led a team in organizing more than 60 service events. For Mai, giving back to her community has always been a core value, and she is eager to bring that spirit of service to Columbia GSSC!

Maeve Sheehan is a senior in the Dual BA with Trinity College Dublin and majors in Film and Media Studies and minors in Education. She is a native New Yorker whose strong cultural connections led her to Trinity and Columbia!

She spent her time in Ireland contributing creatively to Europe’s largest and most active drama society, the Dublin University Players. She was elected as the Publicity and Communications Manager for one year, handling graphic design, photography and weekly newsletters for the society’s productions, weekly events, and campus-wide festivals. Alongside this role, she publicized two plays in the Samuel Beckett Theatre and one that premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. 

Now at Columbia, she works part time as a Marketing and Communications Assistant for the GS Communications Office. She is involved in the theatre community here, as Social Media and Publicity Captain for the 131st Annual Varsity Show, as Social Media Supervisor for last year’s council, and as recently elected Vice President of the Columbia University Players. This summer, she is an intern for The Broadway League, working on their Digital Content team. 

She’s excited to spend this year working with the E-board and communicating with the GS Student Body! And if she isn’t doing that, she’s probably trying to see as many Broadway shows as possible on a college student budget…

Luiza Guimaraes is a senior at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, majoring in Film & Media Studies with a minor in Drama & Theatre Arts. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she is an Afro-Brazilian comedian, filmmaker, storyteller, and military spouse whose work bridges performance, media, and communications.

Her professional experience includes roles in media and communications at the National Review Institute, the NYC Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, and Columbia University Irving Medical Center. She currently serves as Social Media Coordinator for COMBO, an initiative under Columbia Pediatrics’ department, coordinating communications and outreach for the free annual event that welcomes over 700 attendees in Washington Heights.

She has performed stand-up and improv across New York and Washington, D.C., including a showcase at the Brazilian Consulate, and trained at Upright Citizens Brigade’s improv program with scholarship support. She has also served as an Improv Instructor Assistant for the Armed Services Arts Partnership, helping military veterans and their families explore creativity through performance. On screen, she has produced short films, web series, and contributed to sketch comedy productions. On campus, she is active in the theater community, performing in plays and collaborating with peers on new work.

Luiza is dedicated to using comedy and film as tools for connection, empowerment, and social change. She is especially passionate about giving voice to underrepresented communities and continues to create work that reflects both her multicultural background and her commitment to inclusive storytelling.

She’s excited to spend this year finalizing her new comedy and film club, Sloth Motion, at Columbia and connecting with the GS community through the Student Council. After graduation, her goal is to bring her creativity and voice to the world of television. And when she’s not performing or creating, she is learning tennis, playing video games, discussing how awesome Brazil is, or chasing the sunshine, as summer is her favorite season.

Laila Shai is a sophomore in GS, majoring in Creative Writing and minoring in Linguistics. Originally from Tel Aviv, Israel, she is currently living her dream of being a real New Yorker!

During her service in the IDF, Laila spent two years as Deputy Head of Screenwriting, Direction and Research for the IDF Spokesperson Unit, primarily focusing on communications and marketing. After the military, Laila transitioned to journalism as a news editor for Maariv, where she still serves part-time as their reporter for American Affairs. 

Now at Columbia, Laila is involved in a number of student groups within the Jewish, Israeli, international and veteran community in GS, which she is proud to represent as part of the GSSC!

She’s thrilled to receive this opportunity to take part in the GS student experience, with her main goal being to ensure every student feels represented and has access to all the information and resources they need to make the absolute best of their time at Columbia. When she’s not working on student communication or studying in Butler, you’ll probably find her sipping coffee on the lawns, and you’re more than invited to join!

Jolee Cobb is a second semester transfer student from Fordham University accumulating lived experiences in New York City as a First Generation, Low Income, Working Student. With 10 years of Hospitality expertise, as well as hybrid traditional and non-traditional academic training, she aims to utilize diverse approaches to attain impactful solutions within GSSC.

Joel Teron is a GS Junior, majoring in Sociology with a Special Concentration in Public Health. A Bronx native and proud Puerto Rican, Joel brings a deep commitment to community building, public health advocacy, and student support to his role as Campus Life Coordinator for the General Studies Student Council.

Before arriving at Columbia, Joel earned his associate degree in Public Health from Borough of Manhattan Community College, where he served as President of the Health and Wellness Club and worked as a Supplemental Instructor in the Learning Resource Center. His academic and professional journey has been shaped by his lived experience and long-term recovery, which inspires his dedication to harm reduction, health equity, and creating supportive environments for marginalized communities.

Outside the classroom, Joel serves as Assistant Director of the Keith Haring Harlem Center at the Alliance for Positive Change, where he oversees harm reduction services, HIV/HCV testing initiatives, and community outreach programs across New York City. He is passionate about bridging academic knowledge with real-world impact and empowering communities through compassionate care and evidence-based practices.

As Campus Life Coordinator, Joel hopes to foster inclusive, engaging, and wellness-centered programming that strengthens connections among GS students. He is especially committed to creating spaces where nontraditional students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive at Columbia.

When he’s not organizing events or studying, Joel is an avid marathon runner who enjoys training in Central Park and mentoring fellow runners preparing for their first races.

Jeanne is a senior in the Dual BA Program with Trinity College Dublin, where she is getting a bachelor's in Neuroscience and Behavior. 

After growing up on Reunion Island, she decided to start her island-hopping journey to Dublin and then Manhattan. During her time at Trinity, Jeanne participated as an outreach communication officer for the Trinity Public Health Society while working part-time at the Student Union's Cafe. She was also involved in the Student-to-Student program, where she helped first years settle and thrive in their new academic environment.

Now at Columbia, she is pursuing theatre as the Social Chair of the CUPlayers, as well as being in the cast or crew of student-run productions. This past year, through her position as a Public Relations Coordinator, she volunteered for events around campus, including the GSSC snack attacks, Thanksgiving Diner, and Glass House Rock or Tree Lighting. 

She also supports her peers as an Orientation Leader and a GS mentor. For her senior year, she started working as a Teaching Assistant for the psychology department and hopes to get students excited about the topics. In her free time, Jeanne enjoys watching movies, baking, and cross-stitching.

As Vice President of the Senior Class, she is excited to celebrate her fellow graduates and make sure they feel empowered to pursue their next step after college.

Jacob Resnick is a fourth year at Columbia GS and at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America (JTS) through List College joint program. At Columbia, Jake studies Financial Economics, and at JTS, he studies Jewish law. 
This marks Jacob's third year on GSSC board, having sat in the Technology Chair position his first year and in the JTS rep. position in the following two. He joined so he could make GSSC more accessible to members of the community, which he does through structural changes (made a JTS specific announcements group-chat) and scheduled events (makes and gives out coffee). 
Outside of GSSC, you can find Jake studying in Butler, eating in Hewitt, cooking in his dorm, or in class at the Columbia Business school. 

Ishan Feisal is a junior on the Dual BA with Trinity College Dublin, with a major in History and minoring in Computer Science. He is from London, but has roots in the Indian subcontinent and Trinidad.

In Dublin, he was also involved in diversity and equity, and looks to bring some of his experience towards helping GSers feel more at home in Columbia! This will consist of coffee mornings, as well as interfaith events for the whole GS community to have the chance to attend.

Outside of the GSSC, Ishan loves exploring new places and cultures (so New York has been incredibly exciting for him). He is always welcome to feedback or any ideas from the GS community, so feel free to say hi or send him an email.

Isabel Tenney is a junior majoring in political science and English. Prior to coming to Columbia, Isabel was a professional ballet dancer. She enjoys getting involved on campus-- in that vein, this is Isabel's third year on GSSC, and she can't wait to help the Campus Life committee put together some exciting events this year!

Irene Souny Bihr is a senior in the dual degree program between Sciences Po and Columbia University. After two years of studying Economics and Sociology in Le Havre, she is now majoring in Financial Economics with a minor in East Asian Studies.

She first joined council as Financial Coordinator last year, managing event budgets and navigating administrative hurdles. As the council’s go-to for all things finance, she was entrusted by the GS student body to serve as VP Finance for the upcoming year. In this role, she oversees the council’s budget and works to ensure students see tangible returns on their student life fees. This year, she’s launching with the council new pilot funds which promote student independence, well-being and greater opportunities for all GS students.

Outside of council, she’s passionate about finance, China, and film. She’s committed to making council transparent, useful, and welcoming, so feel free to reach out with questions, ideas, or just to say hi!

Heewon Jang is a student at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, majoring in Computer Science. She already holds a degree in Marketing from Korea, making this her second degree. She is passionate about the intersections of technology, media, and global communication, and has explored these interests through both academic and professional experiences.

Heewon has built a strong background in both tech and communications. She worked as a Tech & Social Media Manager, leading digital content strategy and managing social media outreach. She also served as a Marketing Coordinator, supporting cross-team projects, and gained research experience as a Research Assistant with the NSF REU program, where she focused on data analysis and applications of artificial intelligence.

On campus, Heewon is deeply engaged with the GS community and academic networks, while also pursuing personal projects such as developing an AI-powered mental health application that combines data science with emotional well-being.

This year, she is excited to serve as the Social Media Representative on the GS Student Council, where she looks forward to strengthening communication with students and showcasing the vibrant GS community. Outside of her studies and student council work, she enjoys exploring New York City and discovering new cultural and artistic experiences!

Hannah (Hasangwangmu) is a sophomore student majoring in Cognitive Science. Prior to Columbia, she spent over six years studying Chinese Classics across six different cities, including Beijing, Chengdu, and Hong Kong. Her experiences inspired her passion for equity, cultural exchange, education, and tech innovation.
As the inaugural Career Advancement and Networking Chair on the GSSC, Hannah is focused on strengthening connections between GS students, alumni, and professional networks. She is working to expand mentorship opportunities, career programming, and networking events that help students succeed both academically and professionally. By leveraging her leadership and campus involvement, she aims to enhance GSSC’s career resources, making them more accessible, impactful, and reflective of the diverse GS community.
Beyond her studies and council role, Hannah enjoys art and gaming, and you can probably catch her rolling on the mats with Columbia’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club. She looks forward to connecting with more students and alumni, whether through professional events or just sharing a good conversation.

Gavin Xue is a sophomore in the Dual BA Program with City University of Hong Kong, majoring in Financial Economics and Global Business. He is passionate about advocacy and inclusivity. 

Gavin's passion for policy and inclusive community building is evident in his leadership of Queer Straight Alliance, the largest student-led LGBTQ+ organization in Hong Kong. There, he organized large-scale Inclusive Recruiting Conferences and Mentorship Programs with corporations, including Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Skadden. 

His commitment to policy is deeply rooted in a passion for uplifting disadvantaged communities, demonstrated through direct service. Gavin has volunteered as a tutor for a visually impaired student and served as a volunteer teacher at a primary school in Fiji's Sigatoka District. These experiences have given him a first-hand understanding of the barriers faced by marginalized groups and a firm belief that effective policy must be informed by grassroots engagement.

Outside of GSSC, Gavin enjoys making cocktails, figure skating, and volunteering. He is looking forward to contributing to the community and building effective policy frameworks for all. Don’t hesitate to reach out to him if you have any questions or concerns. He is always willing to help!

Gabriella Jacobs is a junior in the Dual BA Program with Tel Aviv University (TAU). After two years of studying Psychology and Middle Eastern Studies at TAU she now majors in Psychology. She is originally from Cleveland but has lived in Israel since high school. 
Making campus life fun, comfortable, and stimulating is important to Gabriella. While at TAU, she contributed to various aspects of student life, including organizing a TEDxTelAvivUniversity event and serving as a board member for the Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus. She is eager to make similar connections with her Columbia peers and enjoy all New York has to offer. 
After classes Gabriella can be found swimming, biking, running, or reading.
Gabriella is excited to begin her role as the Tel Aviv University Dual BA Representative to help ensure that students like her who pursue untraditional academic routes enjoy a smooth transition and integration into Columbia’s diverse and vibrant campus. She believes that building a thriving community means learning from one another and sharing resources, so feel free to reach out with any questions or say hi on campus!

Erik Rogel is a sophomore majoring in Economics-Political Science. He transferred from The Borough of Manhattan Community College (CUNY), where he built the foundation for his current academic path.

Before Columbia, Erik spent over a decade working professionally—starting in food and farm partnerships, then moving into startup fulfillment operations and eventually logistics and operations management. Throughout this career, he became increasingly focused on integrating technology into operations through systems and production automation, which sparked his interest in how technology shapes labor policy and worker protections.

This past summer, Erik completed a federal internship as a Software Developer, where he developed C++ architecture for in-orbit vehicles, liaised with contractors in weekly development meetings, and participated in contract and budgeting strategy sessions to ensure project continuity across fiscal calendars.

Originally from Chicago but living in New York since 2013, Erik is drawn to work that's both novel and systems focused. He's excited to join GSSC and represent the diverse GS student body.

Ei Thanlwin Oo (aka Emily) is delighted to begin her role as a Campus Life Coordinator on the General Studies Student Council. Originally from Myanmar, she transferred to Columbia for fall 2025 as a junior after obtaining her Associate’s at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC). 

At BMCC, she served as an executive member and the Visual Media Coordinator of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She kept the chapter’s Instagram page active and engaging, collaborated with her peers on research papers, and helped manage school-wide events, meetings, and trips outside of NYC. In addition to her PTK involvement, she also worked as a Transfer Peer Advisor at the Academic Advisement and Transfer Center, where she supported over 400 students, working closely with them throughout their transfer processes to four-year universities. During her two years at the institution, Emily devoted her time to cultivating her education and meaningfully contributing to the community as she carries her strengthened passion for student engagement and honed interpersonal skills to GS. 

Here at Columbia, Emily is thrilled to start her journey in the Biology program while giving back to her peers through her role on the GSSC. She looks forward to contributing to events that keep the campus vibrant and thriving, helping the GS community stay engaged and connected. Together with her peers- not only at GS but at Columbia University- she hopes to be a part of the exciting experiences that define their undergraduate lives!

Outside of school, Emily is just a text away for a coffee, matcha, or boba run, and she loves exploring the city, strolling through New York City’s most beautiful parks. A passionate fan of music, she listens to artists like NIKI, Laufey, and K-Pop groups like BTS and Seventeen, and has a 99% chance of being spotted at a concert downtown. 

Cybel Emmanuel is a senior pursuing a degree in Psychology at Columbia University School of General Studies, where she explores different dimensions of human behavior. Her journey to Columbia has been marked by resilience and creativity. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, she relocated to New York City approximately seven years ago to be with her partner, which marked a significant personal and professional transformation. Before beginning her studies at Columbia, Cybel managed her own small business in fashion styling and makeup artistry in Lagos. Through this entrepreneurial experience, she cultivated strong organizational skills, a sense of independence, and the ability to adapt to the diverse needs of her clients. 
In addition to her academic and business pursuits, Cybel has been actively involved in the arts. She was a cast member in a live performance project entitled The Sprout Terrestrial, which was repeatedly performed at the New York Live Arts theater and funded by the Guggenheim Foundation. This opportunity allowed her to express her creativity in a collaborative environment while also gaining experience in performance and cultural production.
Cybel is also multilingual, with proficiency in four languages, a skill that has been central to her ability to communicate across cultures and communities. Her love for travel has taken her to about seventeen different countries, where she has not only explored new places but also built meaningful professional and personal connections. Working with clients from diverse cultural and social backgrounds has significantly enhanced her adaptability, strengthened her communication skills, and deepened her appreciation for cultural diversity.
Beyond her studies and professional experiences, Cybel enjoys immersing herself in the life of her adopted city. New York City has become her favorite place, both a source of inspiration and an environment in which she continues to grow. Whether through academic engagement, cultural exploration, or personal discovery, she embraces the city’s vibrancy and diversity as part of her own evolving journey.

My name is Carina Rudolph-Math and I am a senior majoring in Political Science. I am a part of the Dual Degree Program with Trinity College Dublin in Ireland where I studied European politics, language, and history. This is my second year on council and I am very excited to continue contributing to the amazing GS community here at Columbia. My hometown is Honolulu, Hawaii, but as a part of the Campus Life Committee, I love making Morningside Heights feel like home! 

Brian Luna is a senior at the School of General Studies, majoring in Computer Science.

During his time at GS, Brian has worked as a Data Analyst at Ferrari Express, supporting and developing innovative tools to improve operational efficiency. He also interned at IBM consulting, the State Department, and HSBC, where he focused on liquidity and investment strategies. These experiences have shaped his interest in the intersection of technology, finance, and consulting.

As Treasurer of GSSC, Brian is committed to responsible stewardship of resources, promoting financial transparency, and supporting events that strengthen the GS community.

Bianca Sallusti is a junior in the Dual BA Program between Sciences Po and Columbia University, majoring in Political Science and Statistics. Italian from Como but raised in London, she has built a strong transatlantic academic and professional profile, balancing rigorous coursework with leadership roles in various student initiatives.

At Columbia, Bianca continues to combine her financial and organizational skills with community service. As Internal Finance Chair, she is committed to ensuring that the council’s resources are managed strategically and transparently, while supporting the initiatives that make GS such a vibrant and diverse community. She looks forward to working with her peers to make this year impactful, collaborative, and memorable.

Ben Kuleshov is a junior at General Studies who transferred from Brookdale Community College in New Jersey. While at Brookdale, he served as Vice President of the Student Life Board, a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, and the founder and President of the Brookdale Car Club. 

As a fresh transfer who worked extensively on event planning in his positions at Brookdale, he is eager to apply his experience with event planning, opinion collection, and working closely with faculty to best represent Transfer Students at GS.

Ben is always up for a trip to a jazz club, the Met Opera, or one of the city's many parks.

Beah Avila is a transfer student at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, pursuing a degree in Political Science. She was recently elected as a Policy Coordinator for the General Studies Student Council (GSSC), where she works to strengthen student representation and support initiatives that enhance the GS experience.

Before transferring to Columbia, Beah studied at BMCC, where she excelled academically and served as Vice President and later President of the Coalition Club. In this role, she led collaborations with campus and citywide organizations—including the Women’s Resource Center, Citymeals, and Gotham Park—developing programs that emphasized community engagement, service, and advocacy.

Beyond campus, she has also pursued professional experiences in marketing, PR, and project management, along with community-based work as a surf instructor and volunteer with Laru Beya, a nonprofit in Rockaway dedicated to empowering historically excluded BIPOC youth.

At Columbia GS, Beah aims to build on her academic interests in political science, economic philosophy, and sustainable development. As Policy Coordinator, she brings her perspective as a transfer and nontraditional student, committed to fostering inclusivity and strengthening connections between GS students and the broader university community.

Apolline Ancel is a senior in the Columbia University and Sciences Po Dual BA Program, studying Political Science. Originally from France, Apolline spent most of her life in Strasbourg, one of the capitals of the European Union. She developed a deep passion for politics, compromise, and celebrating cultural diversity. Apolline is thrilled to now call NYC and Columbia home and is honored to represent the vibrant international student community of the School of General Studies. She looks forward to contributing to the unique spirit of GS, helping protect international students’ rights and making this year unforgettable! Do not hesitate to reach out to meet her by email or person, she is here to help and open to all feedback!

Angel is a junior in the Dual BA Program with City University of Hong Kong, currently pursuing Economics. She is dedicated in promoting cultural exchange and joins the council as the CityUHK Dual Degree Representative. 

At CityUHK, Angel served as Minister of the Recreation Department in the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, where she was responsible to organize large-scale events such as the Halloween Night, Chinese New Year Gala, the first-ever virtual CityUHK Fashion Show, and the Orientation Ceremony, fostering cross-cultural engagement and community building.

As the CityUHK Dual Degree Representative, Angel aims to strengthen communication and collaboration between dual-degree students, enhance cultural and academic integration, and serve as a supportive resource for her peers. She hopes to contribute to a more connected and inclusive GS community through her role on the Student Council.

Anand is a junior in the Dual BA Program with Trinity College Dublin, studying philosophy and pursuing a pre-medical pathway at Columbia. He's passionate about civic engagement and access to education, and is very excited to pursue both of these interests as an academic advocate for GS students. 

In the past, he's worked as a secretary for the Traditional Irish Music Society and as a Dual BA Representative for the Trinity College Dublin Student Union. He's committed to collaborative approaches to policy improvement, and believes that good policy originates from the community - so please reach out if you have any suggestions/problems to solve!

Outside of academics, Anand loves throwing himself into everything New York has to offer, whether it be chance encounters with interesting people at the Hungarian Pastry Shop poking around Greenwich Village for places associated with Bob Dylan, or finding hole-in-the-wall tea shops in Chinatown. He looks forward to working for the GS community this year!

Aleigh is a senior at General Studies majoring in Creative Writing with a concentration in Fiction. She is an active member of the GS community holding roles as a Student Ambassador in the admission's office, a tutor at the Academic Resource Center, a Peer Advisor, and an Orientation Leader during NSOP. This is her first time serving on council and an opportunity she is grateful and excited for. Aleigh is always available via email and happy to talk with anyone who has questions or concerns.

When she's not running around campus for class or her various jobs, she can be found looking for the perfect writing spot, taking her dog for a walk through Riverside Park, or using skills from her past life as a pastry chef and cake decorator to make sweet treats for her friends!

Adriana Podokshik is a freshman in the Dual BA program with the Jewish Theological Seminary and the School of General Studies, where she intends to major in Architecture and Jewish History. Born and raised in Brooklyn to immigrant parents from Ukraine and Belarus, she grew up exploring her passions which led her to Columbia.

Adriana was online-schooled from the age of eight in order to pursue a career in ballet, training daily while also finding ways to stay active in other communities. Beyond ballet, she became a leader in her school’s Model United Nations, investment club, and student ambassador program, which taught her many life-long skills about teamwork and leadership.

At Columbia, Adriana is continuing to explore her interests as a member of Club Tennis, the Columbia University Ballet Ensemble, and the Culinary Society. She is especially excited to serve as Technology Chair on GSSC, where she hopes to combine her creative background and technical skills to support and improve the GS community. When she isn’t studying or working, she can usually be found playing a sport, dancing, or finding good eats!

Aaron Green is a sophomore in the Columbia University and Tel Aviv University Dual BA program, pursuing degrees in Data Science and Psychology, with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Aaron just finished two years at tel aviv university and is very excited to get involved at Columbia and be part of representing the GS student Body. When not thinking about policy solutions Aaron is probably trying to figure out stats.