Peer Academic Coaching for Computer Science
Support for CS 106, 209, 226
Location: Toohey Tech Tower in CIS
Peer Academic Coaches are available to help you develop your content knowledge and study skills. There is no need to sign up. Simply stop by!
| Sunday 7-9PM | Monday 7-9PM | Tuesday 7-9PM | Wednesday 7-9PM |
| Cassie | Derrell | Derrell | Owen |
| Zander | Owen | Zander | Zander |
| Owen |
Upcoming Academic session
How to Use Git
Wed 11/13, 8-9PM, Tech Tower
In this session, we will cover the basics of Git commands, repository setup, and essential workflow tips to help you manage code changes efficiently. Whether students are new to Git or looking to solidify their skills, this session will provide examples to help students improve their Git skills as most courses in the CS department use it for collaboration.
CS 106 Crash Course
Wed 11/20, 8-9pm, Tech Tower
As students deepen their understanding of computer science fundamentals, this session
will cover core programming principles, problem-solving techniques, and essential
topics from the course. Whether they need a refresher or additional support on specific
concepts, this session aims to clarify challenging areas and boost students’ confidence
in class.
meet the computer science pac team
Cassie Davidson '25 - PAC Captain
Â鶹Æƽâ°æ Me: I am from Easton, Massachusetts, and play on the women’s basketball team here at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ. During my free time I enjoy hanging out with my cat and 3 dogs, traveling, and fishing. I am really excited to join PAC this semester!
Why PAC?: I really enjoy computer science and would love to help others enjoy it as much as I do. PAC helped me a lot my freshman year so I would love to give back and help whoever may need it!
Favorite Class: My favorite class so far has been CS 226, Software Design, with Dr. Reilly. It was really fun to be able to understand more about how software is put together and organized through code.
Academic Advice: Staying organized by keeping track of assignments and getting work done as early as possible really helps with stress levels later in the semester when things may get crazy.
Zander Chown '25
Majors: Computer Science & Political Science 
Minor: Periclean Honors Forum
Â鶹Æƽâ°æ Me: Hi I’m Zander. I grew up in Maine. In my free time I really enjoy playing tennis and chess.
Why PAC?: I enjoy helping others and meeting new students in computer science.
Favorite Class: My favorite class was Computer Networks with Professor Prasad.
Academic Advice: Take things in small pieces one at a time.
Derrell Downey '25
Major: Computer Science Minor: Mathematics 
Â鶹Æƽâ°æ Me: I’m from Bergen County, NJ and I’m a big fan of learning and trying new things, especially with my friends.
Why PAC: I’ve used PAC many times in the past to help get through concepts that went completely over my head. I’d love to help students in the same situation the way others helped me.
Favorite Class: My favorite class has been CS 226, Software Design, taught by David Read. It gave me experience working with other important aspects of CS besides coding like testing, logging, and working in a team.
Academic Advice: My advice would be to always get started early. Even if you have to do just 5 minutes of work when you first get an assignment and you’ll be so much more prepared than leaving it all till the end.
Owen Ritzau '25 
Major: Computer science Minor: Mathematics
Â鶹Æƽâ°æ Me: I'm from Dayville, Connecticut. I enjoy playing games and climbing in my free time.
Why PAC?: Helping others is fun, and teaching others is one of the best ways to learn.
Favorite class: CS230 (Programming languages) with Professor Read.
Academic advice: Ask questions early and often, you're almost never the only one confused.