The future of IT is built by those willing to learn, lead, and grow. This January, the Stanford IT community proudly welcomed the 17th Year Up United cohort, continuing a partnership that has strengthened year after year.
Now entering its ninth consecutive year, the Year Up United Internship Program serves as a powerful bridge between emerging talent and meaningful careers in technology. This winter’s cohort brings fresh perspective, curiosity, and drive—ready to contribute to Stanford’s dynamic IT community while building the foundation for long-term success.
Year Up United
Year Up United prepares young professionals with the technical foundation, professional skills, and hands-on experience needed to launch sustainable careers. Through a blend of classroom learning and real-world internships, participants gain exposure to enterprise environments while building confidence in their career paths.
At Stanford, interns are not observers—they are contributors! From supporting large-scale IT operations to improving service experiences across campus, Year Up interns play a meaningful role in advancing the university’s mission. At the same time, they benefit from dedicated mentorship, career coaching, and the opportunity to grow within a dynamic and collaborative workplace culture.
“It never gets old welcoming Year Up interns to Stanford,” says Hope Johnson, Year Up partnership lead. “Across the university, their energy and drive enrich our community every year. On my R&DE IT Support Services team, we’re fortunate to work with three Year Up alumni and an intern right now. Supporting their growth is always exciting. We learn and grow right alongside them.”
We have four returning sponsoring organizations:
- Residential & Dining Enterprises
- Stanford University Libraries
- Learning Technologies & Spaces
- University IT
“In partnership with the CIO Council, the Year Up United internship program provides a unique opportunity to tap the breadth of amazing young talent that is reflective of our broader Bay Area community,” said Steve Gallagher, chief information officer and executive sponsor for the Stanford Year Up Internship program. “I'm delighted to see this program continue to prosper across Stanford.”
This cohort’s interns
- Tavita (TJ) Pauga | Residential & Dining Enterprises
- Juan Garcia | Stanford University Libraries
- Gerardo Lopez | University IT
- Andy Hua | University IT
- Jonathan Zapata | University IT
- Mark Schlaefli | University IT
- Carmen Hernandez | University IT
- Hassan Chowdry | Learning Technologies & Spaces
Intern Spotlight
Carmen Hernandez, University IT
I am a project manager support intern at the Computer Resource Consulting (CRC) within Stanford University IT. My academic background in business and psychology has laid a strong professional and personal foundation for me. Drawing from my experience in hospitality, event planning, and entrepreneurship, I’ve developed deep insights into my capabilities—specifically as a visionary who reaches for growth and efficiency.
I am driven by the mechanics of workflow management and the execution of projects that reach a common goal. Now, as a project manager intern at Stanford’s CRC, I am determined not only to add value but to be an integral part of our team's year ahead. I am motivated by the challenge of improving the experience for our clients, team members, partners, and executives. I am eager to remain curious, gain more knowledge, and assist my department in accomplishing its goals at both a micro and macro level. I am incredibly grateful to Year Up United for the opportunity to learn and grow within such a supportive and collaborative community here at Stanford.
Hassan Chowdry, Learning Technologies & Spaces
I am an IT support intern at Stanford University and currently pursuing a degree in psychology. I am passionate about personal growth and helping others improve alongside me. I am from Lahore, Pakistan, where I grew up watching the people around me work relentlessly to provide me with opportunities for a better future. That experience changed my mindset and motivates me to consistently grow both as a person and as a professional. I am laser-focused on building a meaningful career while also developing meaningful connections.
Juan Garcia, Stanford University Libraries
I'm a student at Year Up United with a strong passion for technology and problem-solving. Currently I'm an intern at Stanford University where my team of four and I handle tickets for 400+ staff members regarding anything as simple as a question on how to download an app to replacing computers or troubleshooting larger issues by a deadline. Outside of work, I enjoy learning more about technology through media outlets, doing projects, and networking through events.
I'm excited to be part of such an important team that is constantly teaching me about their skills in their job roles, like AV, project management, and network security. I'm passionate and excited for my upcoming roles, where I can put these skills into use.
Learn more
Year Up United is an integral part of the CIO Council's strategic vision for the IT community at Stanford. Visit the Year Up Internship Program page to learn more. For more information on the Year Up United organization, visit yearup.org.
