UC students recognized as outstanding peer career coaches

Each spring, the University of Cincinnati’s College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies honors students for outstanding achievement in experiential learning.

This year, two peer career coaches received awards for outstanding service and contributions to the Bearcat Promise Career Studio.

The Career Studio, located in Tangeman University Center, offers career exploration, planning and development services to University of Cincinnati students. Peer career coaches supplement the professional staff by offering fellow students sound advice and relevant resources in one-on-one coaching conversations, programs and events.

Keya Nandi

portrait of a woman in red blouse and black jacket

As a peer career coach, Keya Nandi created a resource to support international students. Photo/provided

A senior studying business economics and business analytics, Keya Nandi has been a fantastic addition to the Bearcat Promise Career Studio team.

Among other things, she was instrumental in creating a database showing where international alumni have landed in their careers. This resource will provide networking and professional opportunities for current international students at UC.

Nandi’s supervisor describes her as uniquely driven and not one to back down from a challenge. She plans to earn a master’s degree in applied economics at UC starting this fall.

Arielle Mintz

portrait of a young woman with glasses

Junior Arielle Mintz contributed her marketing skills to create posters and fliers to promote Career Studio events. Photo/provided

Junior marketing major Arielle Mintz of Cleveland, Ohio, joined the Bearcat Promise Career Studio team in fall 2024 and has proved indispensable. She has shown unflagging energy for helping students achieve their short- and long-term career goals.

In addition, she designed posters and fliers to promote Career Studio events. Her supervisor commends her for being welcoming and kind to everyone, willing to go the extra mile, and interested in growing professionally.

four women pose together with award certificates

Four members of the UC Bearcat Promise Career Studio team (L-R): graduate assistant Jordan Cunningham, peer career coaches Arielle Mintz and Keya Nandi, and director Ellie Bridges. Photo/Emily Sullivan/UC

About the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies

Drawing on UC’s pioneering work in cooperative education, the College of Cooperative Education and Professional Studies supports learners at any stage in their educational and professional growth. In collaboration with university, industry, government and community partners, we bridge the gap between academic achievement and career success through innovative programs, skill development and service learning.

Related Stories

1

Teaching empathy and courage

December 4, 2025

Two University of Cincinnati co-op students engage children in hands-on “Superhero Activation” activities at the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, helping young visitors learn kindness, courage and how to be upstanders.

3

CCM Musical Theatre student is semifinalist in American Pops Orchestra NextGen Collegiate Vocal Competition

December 2, 2025

CCM Musical Theatre student, Nick Gundrum, has been chosen as a semifinalist for the American Pops Orchestra NextGen Collegiate Vocal Competition. The NextGen Competition was founded by APO Music Director, Maestro Luke Frazier, and is dedicated to celebrating collegiate students who show promise in popular song, musical theatre and jazz. The Next Gen Competition evaluates students based on vocal technique, stage presence and interpretive skill.