A little more about me:

Following six years of teaching biology and chemistry in China, I am excited to advance my career with a Masters of Higher Education and a Institutional Research certificate. At Meredith College, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and I studied abroad in Copenhagen. Throughout the process, I worked closely with faculty and staff to conduct independent research projects and plan a study abroad experience that could support my academic goals. After graduation from Meredith, I accepted a Biology and English teaching position in Beijing, China at Beijing Royal school and later a Chemistry position at Luhe International Academy. Currently, I am teaching A-level biology in Wuhan, China. Teaching in both north eastern and central China has allowed me to see different characteristics of Chinese students that are influenced by regional culture and the hardships of COVID-19.

Through teaching, I have found that I enjoy making science dynamic and engaging for students as well as helping them navigate their search for a foreign institution that could be a good fit for their needs. Often, I find that students guide the students to success regarding their academic and life goals. In general, Chinese students hope to go to America or Europe to attend university, but they are restricted by the fear of not getting an acceptance letter from one of the top tier universities such as Harvard. As my students become more comfortable with me, they seek my advice about what options they may have if they do or don’t get into these top universities. I find great pride in helping put their hearts to ease through educating them that there are a lot of schools in America and Europe that often are more tailored to their personal goals.

Often, the students I council fine-tune their academic focus and begin working more diligently towards becoming a strong applicant to a school that will help them achieve their future goals. For example, my student, Tiffany, is passionate about performing arts. She works hard in my chemistry class, but she struggles with absorbing the concepts. One day she came into my classroom in tears and asked me if I think she could ever be successful even though she cannot compete with her classmates in science and math. After discussing her concerns and conducting some research together she found programs in New York and Atlanta that could support her dream of being involved in performing arts. Moreover, she already has fulfilled most of the requirements to apply for scholarships and programs at these colleges. Now, she not only is working hard to maintain her high GPA in all subjects, but she is also diligently practicing dance and researching jobs that she would enjoy.

During my time spent in China, I’ve had countless experiences that have shown me how many opportunities are available in the world. Not only have I enjoyed the various cultures and people I have encountered, but I have also realized that I can help share these opportunities with others. As the global economy grows, so does the need for people who are not afraid to embrace the new jobs and cultures that come with it. I am passionate about making people feel confident and driven to achieve their dreams. I know that with a master’s in higher education I could influence and support international university students that may feel unsure about their new surroundings. I could point students who want to travel abroad to countries that will enhance them both personally and professionally.

I am excited to attain a Masters of Higher Education and Institutional Research Certificate from Penn State!