ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø

Describe your experience as a OUS scholar at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø.

As an OUS scholar at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø, I have truly been able to feel a part of a community. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been able to connect and feel closer to my peers. Individuals like John Palmer, Jessica Pearce, Frank Kuan, and Dean RaJhai Spencer have provided me with the support that I need as an undergraduate student. Additionally, I am able to build valuable relationships with faculty and staff through the events and programs held by OUS. Being a part of the OUS family comes with a sense of comfort and security, through knowing that I have people around me who may share the same identity, hobbies, and experiences or just us simply being connected to each other.

What was one thing you wish you knew as an OUS student coming to ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø?

One thing that I wish I knew as an OUS scholar coming to ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø is time management. However, during my OUS summer, I was able to grasp an understanding of what it should look like and implemented that into my first semester of college.

What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment as a student at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø?

I think that my biggest accomplishment as an OUS scholar here at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø is my ability to manage my time. Thinking back to a year ago, the concept of time was an illusion to me. However, being at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø made clear to me the reality that time waits for no one. I adapted quickly to working around and within my schedule to ensure that I had the right balance of academic, social, and personal life. While I continue to improve my time management skills, I am very proud of where I am on my journey so far. 

What do you think of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø’s Third-Century Plan, DEI initiatives, and ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø’s future from your student perspective?

Personally, I believe ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø’s Third Century Plan and its DEI initiatives are mission statements that foreshadow a prosperous future for ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø. However, that’s just it: a mission statement. These goals have yet to be achieved in practice as much as they sound good in theory. Nevertheless, I say this not to refute the attempts and successes that have been made when it comes to these initiatives, but rather to speak to the fact that there is still a lot more work to be done. 

What advice would you give to future ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø students?

The undergrad experience is not monolithic. Students have their own individual creativity, characteristics, and goals. In saying that the ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø experience is not based on the collective, I encourage you never to forget who YOU are. As you try to adapt to this new environment, keep an open mind when meeting others. The best advice I received upon arrival at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø was to just be yourself because only then will you attract true and genuine relationships. I just know that you are all amazing individuals, and that’s why you’re coming to ’Gate. I can’t wait to meet you all!

What are your plans after ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø?

After ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø, I plan to attend dental school and eventually obtain my own practice.