Peer Academic Coaching for Neuroscience
Neuroscience PAC is the best way to get the most out of your NS classes at Skidmore. We work with students in NS 101, 201, and 202, but if you are in another NS class that we don’t expressly cover, it is likely that one of our coaches has taken that class and could help.
Simply stop by!
Support for NS 101, 201, 202
Room: Tisch 208
Our NS PAC team talked with faculty about their research and how to become involved. Check out the video above!
| Sun 7-9PM | Mon 7-9PM | Tues 7-9PM | Wed 7-9PM | Thurs 7-9PM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emily | Jessica | Emma | Emma | Victoria |
| Jessica | Sarita | Bill | Emily | |
| Sarita |
Upcoming Academic Sessions
Meet the PAC Team for neuroscience
Emily Luo '23 - NS PAC Captain
Major/Minor: Neuroscience Major / Math Minor
About me: I was born in Guangzhou, China and grew up speaking Cantonese. In my free time, I
love playing violin, running, and reading! I’m pursuing a career in medicine.
Why PAC? As much as I think of being a PAC as a teaching moment, it’s also a learning moment for me as I work with my peers! I can’t wait to contribute to the progress of others and hopefully provide advice that is applicable not just within math homework but in any academic setting.
Favorite class and why: Intro to Neuroscience (NS101) with Professor Vecsey - I took this class on a whim when I couldn’t get into one of my top choices freshman year and it was the best decision I could have made because I would have never discovered my passion for learning neuroscience and neurophysiology otherwise!
Academic Advice: Don’t hesitate to talk to your professors and mentors when you’re having a tough time. I know from my own experience how challenging it can be to admit you need help, but everyone does at some point, and being open with your professors brings you one step closer to finding a solution or compromise together.
Jessica Auerbach '23 
Majors: Neuroscience and Psychology
About me: At Skidmore, I do research in the neuroscience, psychology, and biology departments! I am from Belmont, Massachusetts. In my free time, I love dancing, biking, and spending time with my pets. As a psychology and neuroscience major, I like learning about the connection between the brain and mind.
Why PAC?: As a freshman, I used to attend PAC all the time for help on assignments and to study before tests. PAC is a safe space to work with peers and mentors.
Favorite Class: My favorite class is physiological psychology with Hassan Lopez. This was the first class in which I was able to work with animal subjects! The class combined pharmacology and behavioral neuroscience which are some of my favorite areas of interest. This class helped solidify my interest in pursuing research in the future.
Academic Advice: Plan your schedule ahead of time to allocate your time more efficiently. Build in time for studying as well as free time. Don't be afraid to attend office hours.
Emma Pantschenko '25
Major: Neuroscience, Psychology 
About me: As both a psychology and neuroscience major, the functioning and design of the brain are extremely fascinating to me. I am currently an incoming sophomore, ready to continue exploring the campus and all the engaging opportunities at Skidmore. I love to paint, hike, and spend time with friends in my free time. I am also an avid reader who owns way too many books.
Why PAC?: PAC is an amazing way to deepen both interest and knowledge in any subject; it is an opportunity to get helpful peer perspectives and advice. Seeking help from PAC has helped many students, including myself, so being able to give this same help and support is extremely gratifying.
Favorite class and why: My favorite class was Intro to Neuroscience with Professor Lagalwar. I had always known I was interested in the brain, but this class deepened and affirmed my love for neuroscience. I found myself excited to learn all this class could teach me.
Academic Advice: Staying very organized is one of the most effective and efficient ways to achieve academic success. Making plans and schedules for homework or study times will ensure that you stay on top of your work, and it also prevents being overwhelmed. Also, never be afraid to ask for help!
Sarita Padukone '23
Victoria Thorpe '23
Major: Neuroscience, Pre-med 
About Me: I am a Peer Health Educator. Additionally, I do research in Neuroscience. Playing the guitar, dancing, cooking, baking, and spending time with friends are some of my favorite things to do when I'm not studying or in the lab. Furthermore, as an international student, I am a member of the African Heritage Awareness Club and the International Student Union.
Why PAC? As a pre-med student, PAC has helped me succeed in most classes. It was an incredible resource to help me further my curiosity about the brain and meet with my classmates to discuss class materials and the interesting things we learned throughout my freshman year. Being a PAC gives me the opportunity to give back to my community and offer resources to my fellow students.
Favorite class and why: My favorite class was Introduction to Neuroscience (NS101) with Denise Evert. This was my first class to study the human brain, and I grew increasingly fascinated with the topic. Taking this class confirmed my desire to study Neuroscience.
Academic Advice: Do not hesitate to ask for help when needed. Always remember that you are not alone. Utilize available resources and office hours. Make sure you take time to rest and do not let deadlines pile up.
Bill Wu '23
Major: Neuroscience 
About me: This semester, I’m a TA for BI107 and CH115, an EMT for SCEMS, and work IT in the library (where you’ll most likely find me!) I’m also the treasurer for Skidmore’s Asian Cultural Association. I love snowboarding, skateboarding, and my favorite place on campus is the green near Haupt Pond!
Why PAC: SAS helped me tremendously in my adjustment to college, specifically PAC – peer learning is one of my favorite study methods. Teaching also challenges me to think critically at a deeper level to explain different concepts in a variety of ways – a welcome challenge!
Favorite class and why: My favorite class I’ve taken so far has to be Intro to Neuroscience with Hassan Lopez. Even though it was a hybrid class during COVID, it ignited my passion of learning how we work on a neurological and physiological level. It was challenging, yet time flew by as I was studying because I was so fascinated by what I was reading. Highly recommend!
Academic advice: I’m a huge fan of active recall! Changing my study habits from re-reading notes and highlighting to using flashcards has improved not only my grades, but has drastically freed up my time as well. Talk to your professors – they’re genuinely here to help you learn, and use office hours and PAC! Everyone wants to see you succeed :)