What brought you to Bowdoin, and what has your experience been like?
My journey to Bowdoin was inspired by my time at a small high school in New York City, where the intimacy of a tightly knit community allowed me to form meaningful relationships and take on initiatives that truly made a difference. This sense of community and impact drew me to Bowdoin, where I found a similar atmosphere that valued close connections and a commitment to the common good. I have found that, much like in high school, my ability to connect and impact the community has been my greatest asset. My experience has been profoundly enriching, filled with opportunities to engage deeply with peers, faculty, and staff, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
What drew you to student government, and what changes have you implemented in BSG?
It wasn’t until the fall of my junior year that I realized the potential of BSG to influence campus culture positively, and it was then that I decided to get involved and drive meaningful change. My goal was to transform BSG into a more cohesive and impactful organization. To this end, I focused on building a solid foundation through team building and culture-enhancing activities such as trainings, retreats, and social gatherings. These efforts internally reshaped our dynamics, making us more united and effective. Externally, we’ve managed to change perceptions of BSG, significantly boosting our approval ratings and enhancing our role on campus. It's been a challenging but incredibly rewarding year where I've grown as a leader and formed lasting friendships.
What do you enjoy about fishing, and what makes it rewarding?
Fishing has always been more than just a hobby; it’s a cherished tradition passed down through my family. From quiet mornings with my brother, grandfather, and father to sharing the calm of Maine’s waters with friends, fishing is intertwined with many of my fondest memories. It provides not only an escape from the pressures of daily life but also a way to connect deeply with nature and the people around me. Especially during a busy year, retreating to the north to fish for brook trout has been my respite, grounding me and renewing my spirit.
What inspires you?
My parents have always been a cornerstone of inspiration in my life. They immigrated to the United States in their twenties, embodying the resilience and dedication it takes to build a life in a new country. Their hard work and commitment to providing for our family have taught me the immense value of perseverance and familial love.
At Bowdoin, I’ve found inspiration in my peers—intelligent, compassionate individuals dedicated to making the world a better place. Their commitment and caring nature have motivated me to push myself further and to believe in the collective power of our actions. Academically, professors like Professor Connie Chiang have profoundly shaped my intellectual and personal journey. Her guidance in courses on Asian American and environmental history has not only broadened my understanding but also deepened my personal identity reflections. Her belief in my potential has continually inspired me to reach beyond my perceived limits and grow immensely. I have a lot of love, respect, and deep gratitude for my professors, especially Connie.
Working with President Safa Zaki this year has been particularly enlightening. Her passion for the liberal arts and her vision for the college have reinforced the value of my education and my role within the community. President Zaki’s leadership style—focused on inclusivity and intellectual rigor—exemplifies the kind of thoughtful, effective leadership that I aspire to emulate. Her commitment to the college’s mission and her genuine care for its students and faculty have shown me the impact a dedicated leader can have on a community.
Moreover, my experiences working with the dining staff at Moulton have been incredibly inspiring. The creativity and respect they show in their work, their commitment to the College, and the kindness they extend to us as students have deeply influenced my understanding of community and service. Each of these relationships and experiences at Bowdoin has been integral to my growth, teaching me valuable lessons about commitment, leadership, and the power of a supportive community.
What's something surprising about you?
People often perceive me as confident and self-assured; however, I frequently grapple with anxiety about outcomes and the correctness of my decisions. This year has been a journey in cultivating courage and learning to act from a place of conviction, even when it’s challenging. Contrary to my sociable exterior, I also cherish solitude, often finding peace in the quiet of the woods while fly-fishing, a pastime that allows me to reconnect with myself away from the demands of social interaction.
Beyond fishing, what else do you enjoy?
Outside of fishing, I find joy and relaxation in playing Ultimate Frisbee, where the spirit of the game and the camaraderie among players brings a lighthearted balance to my life. I also dedicate time to volunteer work with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to make the outdoors accessible to all. This work is not only fulfilling but also an extension of my commitment to community and environmental stewardship.
What's next for you?
Looking ahead, I'm excited to merge my passion for environmental sustainability with my interest in economic solutions as I join a sustainability-themed private equity firm this summer. Following this, I will embark on a new adventure in Taiwan with a Fulbright English teaching assistant position, where I aim to foster cross-cultural understanding and contribute to international education. These steps are thrilling yet daunting, and they represent the culmination of my experiences and learning at Bowdoin.
Favorite Bowdoin memory or the best thing you learned at Bowdoin?
Reflecting on my favorite memory at Bowdoin brings to mind leading a pre-orientation trip with my sophomore year. The wilderness provided a stunning backdrop for a deep sense of camaraderie, enabling us to bond over shared experiences while exploring Maine’s breathtaking beauty. I was fortunate to connect with first-year students who, through their warmth and authenticity, reaffirmed my belief in the value of community and my excitement for the future of our college. The tranquility of nature created a space where meaningful conversations flowed easily, allowing us to learn more about each other and ourselves. The memories of this trip hold a special place in my heart, and I still long to return to those beautiful landscapes.
Academically, my courses with Professor Connie Chiang stand out as some of the most transformational. Studying Asian American and environmental history provided a chance to dive deep into complex themes that resonated with my personal experiences. The coursework challenged me to reflect on my identity and shaped me intellectually, all thanks to Professor Chiang's thoughtful guidance. Similarly, working with Professor Vladimir Douhovnikoff in Forest and River Ecology allowed me to explore my love for nature in new, exciting ways. His enthusiasm for the subject matter and willingness to engage with students made learning genuinely enjoyable.
One of the proudest moments of my time at Bowdoin was passing the extended Thanksgiving break initiative through BSG. The idea of establishing something with such a lasting impact, through challenges and coalition building, instill that perseverance and teamwork are essential to lasting success.
Thinking of these favorite memories has gotten me emotional! I’m going to miss everything about this place.
This story first appeared in the Summer 2024 issue of Bowdoin Magazine. Manage your subscription and see other stories from the magazine on the Bowdoin Magazine website.
