Best Nathan Rao Podcasts (2025)

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Environmental Engineering, SHPE Leadership, and Sustainable Packaging with Daisy Benitez, MS ENE, BS ENE ‘18 1:24:08

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3d ago1:24:08

1:24:08

In this episode, Paul sits down with Daisy Benitez, an environmental engineer at PepsiCo, to talk about her work in global sustainability initiatives, her journey from engineering student to sustainability professional, and her experiences living in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Daisy shares insights on reducing plastic use, developing sustainable pa…

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From Astronautical Engineering to Amazon with Alex Coco, MS Mechanical Engr ‘17, BS Astronautical Engr ‘16 2:04:31

10d ago2:04:31

2:04:31

In this episode, Paul reconnects with Viterbi alumna Alex Coco, Amazon AIR manager, to discuss his path from earning both a B.S. in Astronautical Engineering and an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering at USC to building a career in aerospace and logistics. Alex reflects on his professional journey from Boeing to Amazon, the lessons he carried forward fr…

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Changing Majors 3 times, Sorority Life, Study Abroad Memories, and Tech Consulting with Lauren (Howe) Johnson, MS, Data Analytics '17, BS ISE '16 1:55:44

17d ago1:55:44

1:55:44

In this episode, Paul and Hannah sit down with Lauren (Howe) Johnson to reflect on the twists and turns of her USC journey, from navigating indecision around majors to finding unexpected opportunities in engineering, leadership, and travel. Lauren shares how studying abroad in Rome shaped her perspective, how she used data to improve admissions str…

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New B.S. in Artificial Intelligence with Vice Dean Erik Johnson and Executive Vice Dean Gaurav Sukhatme 1:31:59

24d ago1:31:59

1:31:59

In this episode, Paul sits down with Erik Johnson and Gaurav Sukhatme to discuss the launch of a brand-new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree program coming in Fall 2026. Together, they explore how the program was developed, the three specialized tracks it will offer, and what makes it distinct from computer science and other eng…

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Chemical Engineering, Polymers & Pharmaceuticals, and LGBTQ identity with Makana Krulce, B.S. Chemical Engineering '15 1:25:56

1M ago1:25:56

1:25:56

In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumna Makana Krulce to explore her journey from studying polymers at USC to working in global pharmaceutical consulting. Makana shares how her hands-on experience in Germany shaped her career, reflects on founding the USC student organization Queers in Engineering, Science, and Technology (QUEST), and d…

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Navigating Fear, Misconceptions, & Social Media in College Admission with Jennifer (Jenn The Tutor) Jessie, College Admission Consultant 1:44:44

1M ago1:44:44

1:44:44

In this episode, Paul sits down with Jennifer, a college admission counselor best known as Jenn the Tutor, to debunk myths and misconceptions about getting into college. Jennifer shares her journey from law school to education, her community-oriented approach to guiding students, and why she believes authenticity matters more than chasing prestige.…

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Construction Management, Lacrosse, Sorority Life, and Study Aboard experiences with Natalie Dana (Alvarez), BS Civil Engineering (Building Science) '14, MS Green Technologies '15 1:18:09

1M ago1:18:09

1:18:09

In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumna Natalie Dana (Alvarez) about her interdisciplinary path through civil engineering and architecture, her career in sustainable construction at Turner Construction, and how her time at USC, from study abroad to football games, shaped her journey. They also discuss the future of engineering education, A…

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Cadaver Labs, Medical Devices, and Marketing with Pooja Sharma Rao, B.S. Biomedical Engineering (Biochemical) '07 1:26:43

2M ago1:26:43

1:26:43

Welcome to Viterbi Voice Season 11! In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumna Pooja Sharma Rao to talk about her unique career journey at the intersection of medicine, engineering, and business. From hands-on experiences in cadaver labs to developing and marketing medical devices, Pooja shares how her time at USC prepared her for a dynami…

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Season 10 Finale & Host Hand-Off 1:01:21

5M ago1:01:21

1:01:21

Join us for Saafiyah's last podcast as our co-host! Saafiyah and Paul wrap up season 10 of the Viterbi Voices podcast and introduce the next co-host... Hannah! They reflect on Saafiyah's year as co-host, share plans for the end of the semester, and discuss what’s next for the podcast. Signing off, see you all in August! Text us a Question or Commen…

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Nathan Justin’s Path to Finding a Passion in Computer Science 54:49

5M ago54:49

54:49

In this episode, Satwika talks with 5th year PhD student Nathan Justin about his take on software engineering, CS ethics and his journey towards a PhD. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out all of our events for you at https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/events. Virtu…

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Let’s Talk About “The STEMphony"! 39:31

5M ago39:31

39:31

In this episode, Jessica (AME ‘28) sits down with Emma (ASTE ‘28), Norah (ECE ‘28), and Alan (ASTE ‘28) to explore what it's like balancing the rigors of engineering with their passion for music. From acapella rehearsals to band camp, they dive into what inspired them to continue learning and performing music, how they got involved in their current…

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Finding Your Flow in Chemical Engineering 46:32

5M ago46:32

46:32

In this episode, Michaela (CHE ‘27) sits down with Zoe (CHE ‘27) to discuss what chemical engineering is really like, keys to success in a challenging major, balancing academics and fun clubs, and finding joy with friends and self-care at USC. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall…

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Exploring the Intersectionality between Journalism and Engineering 47:52

6M ago47:52

47:52

In this episode, Keilani (CSBA ‘27) talks to Ellis (CS ‘28) about the underlooked significance of journalism and science communications for STEM-related issues applicable to the real world. They discuss how accessible newsletters and publications can be used to garner traction towards wider issues such as sustainability, computer science, and engin…

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Why USC? 1:04:07

6M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with USC students from various majors and years to unpack their college decision journeys. From the factors that guided their choices to what surprised them most after arriving, they reflect on what drew them to USC and how their perspectives have evolved since. Tune in to hear why each of them ultimately chose t…

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Engineering+ with Minors 58:50

6M ago58:50

58:50

In this episode, Sarah talks to 5 BME students (Ishaani '26, Cedric '28, Matthew '26, Hidaya '27, and Dominic '27) about their minors outside of engineering. With minors ranging from Spanish to cinematic arts to human rights, they all have different perspectives to share about how they explore their non-engineering passions at USC and fit minor cou…

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10th Anniversary Special! 1:49:30

6M ago1:49:30

1:49:30

In this special 10th anniversary episode, we reunite with past co-hosts to reflect on our podcast journey. We discuss behind-the-scenes mishaps, what's changed at Viterbi over the past decade, and how the show has evolved. Tune in for a deep dive into the podcast's past and to find out what our former co-hosts are up to now! Text us a Question or C…

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Viterbi Club Spotlight: CAIS++ 1:00:01

7M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

In this episode, Hannah (ME '27) sits down with Naina and Jay from CAIS++ to dive into the world of AI for social good. They discuss how the Center for AI in Society Student Branch is using artificial intelligence to tackle real-world problems, what it's like to be part of an AI-focused student organization, and how aspiring engineers can get invol…

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Research at USC: The CURVE Fellowship 53:28

7M ago53:28

53:28

In this episode, Sophie (CHE ’28) and her engineering friends talk about their experience with CURVE, a research opportunity offered by Viterbi. They discuss their first experiences with research, and what it’s like to work in labs on campus. Whether it’s working with air foils in the Dryden Wind Tunnel, or working with computational chemistry, CUR…

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Kyle’s Journey - Four Epic Years of Involvement & All Things Civil Engineering 48:53

7M ago48:53

48:53

In this episode, Mitchell Kirby (CE ‘26) got the chance to sit down with Kyle Revale, an inspiring senior studying Civil Engineering. Kyle has a focus on Construction Management and will be graduating with his Master’s in Construction Management in December. Kyle is very involved at USC, and they had a great conversation about ways to get engaged i…

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Early Start: Career Development as an Underclassman 53:08

7M ago53:08

53:08

In this episode, Xavier speaks with Christian Corona, a fellow sophomore in civil engineering, talking about how to get an early start on professional opportunities and work on your career as an underclassman. They talk about organizations, career fairs, excursions, and their own experiences. Whether you're also on the internship search or don't ev…

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Hobbies and Passions: Life Outside of Engineering 39:16

8M ago39:16

39:16

In this episode, Gerson and his biomedical engineering student friends talk about their "5-9s" after their "9-5s." From dancing and music to swimming and investing, they discuss their passions and pursuits beyond the classroom. Tune in for a glimpse into their exciting lives outside of engineering. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our n…

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Rocket Propulsion Lab, Space-Related Research & Internships, and USC Sports with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25) 54:27

8M ago54:27

54:27

In this episode, Saafiyah chats with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25) about all things Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL). They discuss the teams within RPL that Kaleigh has been a part of, how she got involved, and the records the club has broken. Kaleigh also shares insights into her space-related research, her internships, and how she balances it all alongside h…

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Environmental Engineering, Design Team Competitions, and Finding Community at USC with Sejal and Ivan (ENE '26) 52:33

8M ago52:33

52:33

In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Sejal and Ivan, Environmental Engineering majors at USC. They share their experiences on environmental design competition teams, their involvement in various environmental and identity-based clubs, and how they’ve found community at USC through classes and extracurriculars. Text us a Question or Comment - it…

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Civil Engineering, The Navy, & the USC MBA for Veterans with Marcelle Phené, MBA '25, CE '10 1:52:51

8M ago1:52:51

1:52:51

In this episode, Paul interviews USC alumna Marcelle Phené, a civil engineering graduate who has worked with several companies and served in the U.S. Navy. She shares how her engineering background played a role in her military service and career journey. Marcelle also discusses her professional journey since then and her decision to return to USC …

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Ask Us Anything - First Year Admission LIVE Q&A 1:09:05

8M ago1:09:05

1:09:05

To kick off the second half of season 10, our Viterbi admission counselors answer your hard-pressed questions about first-year admission to USC. In this episode, they cover a range of common topics, from providing insights into the application process to whether there is a "secret sauce" to stand out. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on ou…

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第95集: 2024年总结 Concluding 2024 14:21

9M ago14:21

14:21

旧的一年要过去，新的一年要来了。在这一集节目里，我跟大家介绍今年茶歇中文做的事情，还有我们明年的计划。 An old year passes and a new one is coming. In this episode, I will be presenting what TeaTime Chinese has done in the past year. Sponsors： italki: learn a language online ($10 coupon) NordVPN (70% off, code: teatime) Saily: eSim for your next holiday destination (5% off, code: teatime) Links: ◉ R…

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第94集 : 一起读琼瑶的《陌生人》Read «The Stranger » by Chiung Yao 29:17

9M ago29:17

29:17

2024年12月4日，中国作家琼瑶自杀。她一生写过许多言情小说。这些小说被做成电影和电视剧，广受国内外观众的喜爱。今天，Nathan和文嘉跟大家分享琼瑶的短篇小说《陌生人》。故事里，一个女孩认识了一个陌生人。慢慢地，两个人成为朋友。有一天，陌生人要离开。他要去哪里？他是谁？ On December 4, 2024, the Chinese writer Chiung Yao committed suicide. She wrote many romance novels throughout her life, which were adapted into films and TV series, greatly loved by audiences both domestically a…

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Viterbi Club Spotlight: Makers 48:42

10M ago48:42

48:42

In this episode, Hansini speaks with three members (Alexandra, Mitch, and Alanna) of Makers, an electronics design team at USC. They talk about their shared experience in the club, experience working on different project teams, and opportunities for leadership and networking. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are…

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The Road to Graduation 1:22:15

10M ago1:22:15

1:22:15

Taylor and her senior peers reflect on their past seven semesters at USC, recognize their growth and accomplishments, and share advice for anyone in their academic journey! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out all of our events for you at https://viterbiadmission.…

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第93集: 张骞和丝绸之路 Zhang Qian and the Silk Road 23:39

10M ago23:39

23:39

很久以前，交通不便。就是有这么一些人，他们不愿意收到交通，地理的限制，一马当先，游历四海，成为著名的旅行家。张骞就是这样的一个人。他走过的路，今人叫做：丝绸之路。 Long ago when transportation wasn’t advanced, a group of people defied the limitations of transportation and geography. They set out for far, and travelled the oceans. They were great travelers. Zhang Qian is one of them. The road that he took is what we call “the Sil…

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Navigating College as an International Student 43:21

10M ago43:21

43:21

In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Joel Etchri, a mechanical engineering student from Macau, as he reflects on his college journey in Los Angeles. Joel opens up about the challenges and rewards of studying far from home, navigating a new culture, and adjusting to life in the U.S. He also offers advice to fellow international students on how t…

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Beyond the Circuit: Unraveling Misconceptions in ECE 57:18

11M ago57:18

57:18

In this episode, Cecilia reflects with Leire, Jessica, and Talise on their experiences so far as Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) majors. They discuss what they got wrong and right about their major, and what advice they would give themselves if they started at USC all over again. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode…

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MEDesign: Why does your heart beat for BME? 1:01:11

11M ago1:01:11

1:01:11

In this episode, Ishaani sits down with Matthew (BME '26) and Eddie (BME '26), members of MEDesign, USCs premier medical device design club. Join them as they explore how Biomedical Engineering students in MEDesign are turning their passion for innovation into real-world projects, and discover what drives these engineers to push the boundaries of m…

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Life At USC: Balancing Engineering while Maximizing Your College Experience 1:16:42

11M ago1:16:42

1:16:42

In this episode, Karissa speaks with Krishna Srikanth, a fellow Viterbi student, to discuss life at USC while pursuing rigorous majors and minors. They chat about everything related to enjoying life and doing well at USC: social life, clubs, internships, classes, and more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are th…

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Women in Engineering: Voices of Viterbi's Club Presidents 1:24:30

11M ago1:24:30

1:24:30

In this episode, Hannah speaks with some of the fabulous women in engineering leading Viterbi Clubs and Organizations. They discuss their time in SWE, CAIS++, ScopeSC, ADT, and Shift along with their experience at Viterbi and beyond! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, che…

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第92集:《黑神话：悟空》的成功故事 The success story of “Black Myth: Wukong” 22:13

11M ago22:13

22:13

2024年8月20日，《黑神话：悟空》在游戏迷们四年的等待之后终于上线。游戏想象《西游记》原著故事发生之后的事情。在游戏中，玩家与原著中的妖魔鬼怪战斗，最终找到悟空。《黑神话：悟空》无疑是今年最畅销的游戏之一。这个项目背后的团队是谁？他们为什么要做这样一个中国风格的游戏？我们为大家讲述。 On August 20, 2024, after four years of anticipation from gaming fans, Black Myth: Wukong finally launched. The game imagines a continuation of the classic Journey to the West story, allowing players to b…

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Exploring Computer Science Programs at Viterbi 46:42

11M ago46:42

46:42

In this episode, USC Viterbi students Riya, Cody, Aditya, and Agnes share their experiences in various Computer Science programs. They discuss how they chose the right computer science major for them, their classes, and how they balance their coursework with other classes. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are th…

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Recruitment Rewind: Senior Engineers Speak 35:53

12M ago35:53

35:53

In this episode, we sit down with a senior Mechanical Engineering student and a senior Industrial Engineering student to discuss their experiences with recruiting in their final year of college. They share valuable insights, strategies, and tips on how to navigate the job hunt, prepare for interviews, and stand out to employers in a competitive mar…

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茶歇中文正式成立公司 TeaTime Chinese is now a registered company 1:43

12M ago1:43

1:43

二零二四年九月，茶歇中文的公司 ”茶報" (TeaTimedia ltd.) 正式在香港成立。从此，我们立志，要成为无政治偏见的中文新闻媒体。我们的口号是：实事求是。 In September 2024, TeaTime Chinese’s company, "茶报" (TeaTimedia Ltd.), was officially established in Hong Kong. From that point onward, we are determined to become an unbiased Chinese news media outlet, free from political prejudice. Our motto: Quest for Truth. 茶報创刊词…

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第91集: 中国历史上的刺杀事件 Assassination Attempts in Chinese History 25:25

12M ago25:25

25:25

刺杀事件是否只发生在现在? 过去有发生过什么样的刺杀呢？继第90集之后, 让我们穿越回中国数千年的历史, 聊聊中国古代历史上的谋杀事件: 专诸刺吴王, 荆轲刺秦王, 汪精卫刺载沣王。 Do assassinations only happen now? What kind of assassinations have happened in the past? Following Episode 90, let's travel back thousands of years of Chinese history and talk about murders in ancient Chinese history: Zhuan Zhu (专诸) assassinated the King of…

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Life after Biomedical Engineering: A Post-Graduate Perspective 56:41

12M ago56:41

56:41

In this episode, Gerson chats with recently graduated friends that studied Biomedical Engineering at USC. They talk about what they have been up to, law school, medical school, industry, consulting, research, and plenty more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about applying for Fall 2026, check out a…

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The Los Angeles College Experience 40:35

1y ago40:35

40:35

In this episode, Victoria speaks with Grace Hutapea about their experiences being college students in Los Angeles. They discuss professional opportunities through USC, exploring the LA area and food scene, the perks of living in a big city, and much more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode! If you are thinking about apply…

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From USC to the World: The Viterbi Study Abroad Experience 1:15:50

1y ago1:15:50

1:15:50

In this episode, Ava chats with Irith and Keyvette about their study abroad experiences in London, Brighton, and Singapore. They discuss the unique challenges of studying engineering abroad, balancing academics with travel, adapting to new cultures, and how their time overseas has shaped their personal and professional growth. Tune in for tips on m…

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第90集 : 特朗普遇刺 Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump 23:17

1y ago23:17

23:17

2024年7月13日，在美国发生了令人震惊的事情：前总统特朗普遇刺了。事件是怎么发生的？凶手是谁？媒体是怎么评价这一事件的？我们一起探讨。 * 一个口误，在节目的开头，应该是 “13日”，而不是 “30”日。 On July 13, 2024, a shocking event occurred in the United States: former President Donald Trump was assassinated. How did this incident happen? Who was the attacker? How did the media respond to this event? Let’s explore these questions together…

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CS + CE: Computer Science and your College Experience 53:39

1y ago53:39

53:39

In this episode, Jake is joined by a fellow student, Alex Forgosh. They discuss their shared experience of balancing a computer science/engineering degree with playing collegiate sports, leading clubs, pursuing hobbies, and keeping up with their social life. Listen in as they discuss strategies that keep them organized, give tips to new students, t…

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From Prison Bars to Mars: Addiction, Incarceration, NASA, and Coffee with Breece Phipps (BS, MS ASTE '22) 1:38:47

1y ago1:38:47

1:38:47

In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumnus Breece Phipps (BS, MS ASTE '22) about his remarkable journey from addiction and incarceration to becoming a Propulsion System Flight Controller at NASA. Breece opens up about his unconventional path to college, his USC experience, and how he turned his life around. They also explore his entrepreneur…

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第89集: 我们回来了 ! We are back ! 15:59

1y ago15:59

15:59

茶歇中文播客会在今年的九月正式回来！在这一集节目里，Nathan给大家介绍茶歇中文未来的三个小目标。播客换新音乐了。你想联系我们的音乐家吗？乃耕的电子邮箱 : [email protected] TeaTime Chinese podcast will be back officially this September! In this episode, Nathan talks about 3 little objectives moving forward. Our podcast changed its music! Do you want to contact our musician? Naigeng’s email address: [email protected]…

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LIVE at the Move-in Day Parents Reception 57:00

1y ago57:00

57:00

In this episode, Paul and Ava conduct live interviews with new USC parents as they help move their first-year students onto campus. Tune in to hear valuable advice from parents who have traveled from near and far, and get their thoughts on becoming part of the Trojan family. We also hear from incoming students sharing their excitement and expectati…

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Voltage, Electrons, & Spacecraft Systems with Shayna Goldberger (ECE '18, MS ASTE '22) 1:28:29

1y ago1:28:29

1:28:29

In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumna Shayna Goldberger (ECE '18, MS ASTE '22) about her career as a spacecraft systems engineer at Millennium Space Systems. Shayna shares insights into her studies in both electrical and astronautical engineering and provides a glimpse into her current work. They also delve into her unexpected decision t…