Ailene Valles (She/Her)
Guest Experience Specialist
Hi, my name is Ailene Valles! I’m the Guest Experience Specialist at the Career and Internship Center and I strive to make every interaction positive and memorable. I enjoy connecting with people, solving problems, and ensuring that each guest feels genuinely cared for and valued. My goal is always to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and supported when they walk into our office.
I’m a first-year student at the University of Washington with an intended major in Law, Societies, and Justice, where I hope to turn my passion for helping others into a lifelong career advocating for equity and opportunity. Outside of work, I’ve volunteered with nonprofits, especially tutoring younger students, this has deepened my belief in the power of education and community support to create real change.
In my free time I love a good matcha, baking brownies, attending concerts, and crocheting. Go Dawgs! 🐾
Chris Cummings (He/Him)
Peer Coach
I am currently in the second year of my graduate studies in the Master of Public Health – Community-Oriented Public Health Practice (COPHP) program and eager to share my perspective on education and professional development with my peers. With a particular interest in health equity and culturally responsive practices that center community knowledge, I hope to support UW students in their career journeys.
Prior to my role as a peer coach for the Career & Internship Center, I had moved from my home state of Massachusetts to Washington as an Americorps volunteer. I transitioned to working in the non-profit sector with a focus on addressing health disparities related to substance use and mental health challenges among community members experiencing homelessness in the greater Seattle area.
Outside of school and work, I enjoy hiking, live music, cooking/baking, and relaxing with my cat Leon. Go Dawgs!
Ru Li (She/They)
Peer Coach
As a Peer Coach and undergraduate student at the University of Washington, I’m passionate about helping students discover opportunities that align with their academic and professional goals. I’m pursuing a double major in Neuroscience and Bioengineering, where my interests lie at the intersection of neuroengineering and data science. Through my research at UW’s GRID Lab, I’ve explored topics ranging from cancer biology to brain–machine interfaces, gaining insight into how science can translate into meaningful innovation.
Beyond research, I am a part of the CIRCLE Student Advisory Board, where I support international student engagement and leadership development. I’m excited to guide my peers in building confidence, finding purpose, and connecting their studies to real-world impact.
Outside of school and work, I enjoy singing classical music, exploring local cafés, and being with my cat W. Go Dawgs! 🐾
Suler Lu (She/Her)
Peer Coach
Hello! My name is Suler (shoe-ler). As a Peer Career Coach I am excited to support students from all backgrounds and interests in their professional development journey! I look forward to learning more about the unique goals, diverse passions, and incredible experiences of other students.
Currently, I am a third-year student pursuing a double major in Public Health-Global Health and Environmental Studies. I am passionate about work that promotes and supports healthier, safer, and more connected communities. Apart from working at the Career and Internship Center, I am a First Year Interest Group (FIG) Leader and have been a Peer Health Educator at UW LiveWell.
In my free time I enjoy creating art, meeting new people, listening to live music, cooking, and exploring the outdoors. Go Dawgs!