Viterbi Voices: The Podcast
Education & Explainer
About
Welcome to life at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Classes, student organizations, faculty, research, hands-on projects, and don't forget our social lives outside of class - it's all up for discussion with regular appearances and interviews with special guests. Viterbi Voices: The Podcast is hosted by Paul Ledesma (Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Admission) and current student Hannah Fonseca (Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2027).
Episodes
- Four Years Later: Viterbi Seniors Reflect on USC and What’s Next
In this episode of Viterbi Voices, graduating seniors Mitchell, Ishaani, and Anna reflect on their academic and career experiences at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. They discuss their reasons for choosing the university and share i…
- Navigating Early Careers in Medical Devices
Viterbi Voices features alumni Greg Rosenkranz (BME '26) and Ishaani Pradeep (BME '26) discussing their early careers in the medical device industry, including intern projects and work experiences.
- Hiking and Study Abroad Adventures in Chemical Engineering
In this episode of Viterbi Voices: The Podcast, Michaela and Savannah discuss the balance required for chemical engineering studies, accessing support within a small major, their experiences studying abroad at USC, and making time for hobb…
- Environmental Engineering & Public Policy
Student hosts Alex, Sam, and Ellis discuss environmental engineering at USC, experiential learning, and the connection between environmental engineering and policy.
- Circuits and Sisterhood: Engineering and Sorority Life at USC
Ashley Harkness, Ari Abramovich, and Mia Menard discuss their experiences as engineers in sororities at USC. They cover the recruitment process, debunk misconceptions about sorority life, and share advice on balancing engineering studies w…
- The Viterbi Familia
In this episode, Matthew, David, and Fio share their journeys as freshman engineers navigating their first year at USC. They move beyond the traditional student narrative to discuss the power of the 'Viterbi Familia,' highlighting how prog…
- Computer Science Organizations @USC: Scope, LavaLab, and Open Alpha
In this episode, Angelina sits down with Tiffanie Lim from LavaLab, Alicia Grechu from Open Alpha, and Anay Mody from Scope to highlight their respective computer science organizations at USC. Together, they break down what it was like joi…
- Inside the Society of Women Engineers Ambassador Program
In this episode, Abigail Combs (ENE '29) sits down with Kilani Grant (ME '29) and Mayte Morales (ME '29) to dive into the world of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE)! The trio discusses what SWE is and how students can get involved, with…
- Engineers in Club Sports
In this episode, Mason sits down with Natalie Minkler and Madeline Abu Ghazaleh to talk about what it’s really like balancing engineering with club sports at USC. They dive into how they got involved with club softball, skiing, and sailing…
- All the Ways to Explore LA
In this episode of Viterbi Voices, Bethania Dagim (CEE' 28) chats with fellow Viterbi sophomores Shristuti Srirapu (BME' 28) and Joanna Myint (ME '28) about the ways they've explored Los Angeles since they started USC, and how they've bala…
- The First-Year Experience at USC
In this episode, Rianna sits down with Cole Bergevin and Tara Ezhari to talk about what their first-year at USC actually looks like. They share why they chose USC, what housing is really like, how classes are going, and their experiences n…
- CECS: Computer Engineering/Computer Science @ USC
In this episode, Kyna sits down with Nelson Vo to discuss how the CECS program is structured at USC, the impact it has on students, and the career paths it can open in industry. They explore why Computer Engingineering/Computer Science is…
- Transfer Student Admission FAQ
In this episode, Paul and Hannah sit down with USC transfer student Angelina Chou alongside members of the Viterbi admissions team to talk about the transfer student experience at USC. Together, they unpack what it’s really like to transfe…
- From Singapore to USC to Investment Banking to Corporate Development at Intel with Rahul Dutta, BS Electrical Engineering and Economics '04
In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumnus Rahul Dutta to talk about his journey from studying electrical engineering at USC to building a career across the military, investment banking, and corporate development at Intel. Rahul…
- Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biophysics, Powerlifting, and Music with Dr. Wade Zeno
In this episode, Paul sits down with Wade Zeno to talk about his journey from chemical engineering to molecular biophysics and academia. Wade shares how he discovered a passion for applying engineering principles to biological systems, dis…
- Medical Device Development, Biotechnology, and Leadership Growth with Alex Budde, MS Medical Devices and Diagnostic Engr. '18, BS Biomedical (Mechanical) Engineering '17
In this episode, Paul sits down with Viterbi alumnus Alex Budde to talk about his journey from pre-med to biomedical engineering and his career developing life-saving medical devices at Abbott. Alex shares insights from working on the Mitr…
- Engineering in Society, Technical Communication, and Entrepreneurship with Prof. Elisabeth Weiss
We're back! In this episode, Paul and Hannah sit down with Elisabeth Weiss, a professor who teaches WRIT 340. They discuss her journey to becoming a professor, the hands-on projects and initiatives she has developed for the course, and why…
- Research at USC: MADLab
In this episode, Karissa (ME '27) sits down with MADLab Researchers Haozheng Ma (3rd Year PhD BME) and Callie Luong (ME '27) to learn more about their paths into biomedical research and how it has transformed their experience here at USC.…
- Summer Internship Experience as an Electrical & Computer Engineering Student
In this episode, Talise (ECE '27) sits down with Jessica (ECE '27) to talk about her summer internship at Northrop Grumman, how USC helped her get the job, succeed in the internship, and how the internship shaped her future at USC. They di…
- Engineers Without Borders: Building a Better World Through Engineering
In this episode, Sophie (CHE '28) sits down with Sidha Kunada (ENE '27) and Taara Shastri (ENE '28) to discusses their involement in Engineers Without Borders, the communities formed through club engagement, and dealing with feelings of ac…
- Exploring Non-Traditional Paths with an Engineering Degree
In this episode, Sarah (BME '28, pre-med) sits down with Cedric (BME '28, pre-med) and Mattice (CHE ' 28, pre-law) to discuss the ins and outs of pursuing a career path other than traditional engineering with an engineering degree. They di…
- Time Management as a Viterbi Engineering Student
In this episode, Cecilia Betancourt (ECE '27) sits down with a heavily involved RPL member and ASPEN lead, Autumn Zaretsky (ASTE '27), and discusses what it's like to be heavily involved in campus extracurriculars and what that means for a…
- The Computer Science Spectrum: A Look into the Different CS Majors
In this episode, Keilani (CSBA '27) sits down with Daisy Fregoso (CS '28) and Sophie Hyun (CS Games '28) to discuss the variety and overlap of the different Computer Science majors and their different experiences and applications. They dis…
- USC Racing: Design, Build, Race, Repeat
In this episode of USC Racing Spotlight, Naya (Mechanical Engineering ’26), Powertrain Co-Lead, sits down with Katherine (Mechanical Engineering ’26), Project Manager for SCR26, Monica (Mechanical Engineering ’27), Composites Co-Lead, and…
- Meeting the Student Leadership of the American Society of Civil Engineers
In this episode, Xavier (CE '27) sits down with members of the USC chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), including the current president Mitch Kirby (CE '26), project executive Ariana Robles (CE '25), and the leaders o…
- Meet AEE: Founding USC’s Association of Energy Engineers
In this episode, Mitchell Kirby (Civil Engineering ’26) who is Founder and President of the Association of Energy Engineers sits down with David Moseley (Environmental Engineering ‘27) the AEE Design Teams Lead & Marine Energy Design Team…
- Navigating All Things Biomedical Engineering with ASBME
In this episode, Gerson (BME '26) sits down with Dominic (BME '27) and Jaron (BME '26) to chat about their involvement in the Associated Students of Biomedical Engineering (ASBME). They reflect on the impact ASBME has had on their careers…
- All About the AeroDesign Team!
In this episode, Jessica (AME '28) sits down with Hannah (BME '28) to talk about her role as a Build Lead and Lab Manager of USC's student-led AeroDesign Team. Hannah shares an exclusive insight into the team's aircraft design process, the…
- Environmental Engineering, SHPE Leadership, and Sustainable Packaging with Daisy Benitez, MS ENE, BS ENE ‘18
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…
- From Astronautical Engineering to Amazon with Alex Coco, MS Mechanical Engr ‘17, BS Astronautical Engr ‘16
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 an…
- Changing Majors 3 times, Sorority Life, Study Abroad Memories, and Tech Consulting with Lauren (Howe) Johnson, MS, Data Analytics '17, BS ISE '16
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…
- New B.S. in Artificial Intelligence with Vice Dean Erik Johnson and Executive Vice Dean Gaurav Sukhatme
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 develo…
- Chemical Engineering, Polymers & Pharmaceuticals, and LGBTQ identity with Makana Krulce, B.S. Chemical Engineering '15
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,…
- Navigating Fear, Misconceptions, & Social Media in College Admission with Jennifer (Jenn The Tutor) Jessie, College Admission Consultant
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 communi…
- Construction Management, Lacrosse, Sorority Life, and Study Aboard experiences with Natalie Dana (Alvarez), BS Civil Engineering (Building Science) '14, MS Green Technologies '15
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, fr…
- Cadaver Labs, Medical Devices, and Marketing with Pooja Sharma Rao, B.S. Biomedical Engineering (Biochemical) '07
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 cadav…
- Season 10 Finale & Host Hand-Off
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 seme…
- Nathan Justin’s Path to Finding a Passion in Computer Science
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!
- Let’s Talk About “The STEMphony"!
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…
- Finding Your Flow in Chemical Engineering
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…
- Exploring the Intersectionality between Journalism and Engineering
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 publi…
- Why USC?
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…
- Engineering+ with Minors
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…
- 10th Anniversary Special!
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 de…
- Viterbi Club Spotlight: CAIS++
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 prob…
- Research at USC: The CURVE Fellowship
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 camp…
- Kyle’s Journey - Four Epic Years of Involvement & All Things Civil Engineering
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 Mana…
- Early Start: Career Development as an Underclassman
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…
- Hobbies and Passions: Life Outside of Engineering
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…
- Rocket Propulsion Lab, Space-Related Research & Internships, and USC Sports with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25)
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…