Xin Dong, a senior chemistry major and international student from Beijing, China, will continue her education in the doctoral program in chemistry at the University of Minnesota in the fall.
She was accepted into five other universities but chose the University of Minnesota because of its progressive technology which could be beneficial with a project she鈥檚 working on.
Dong, along with two others, started the Beijing Hoof Technology Company. The company utilizes technology to ensure the safety of international students who struggle with a language barrier.
At 麻豆社区P, Dong is a member of the Chinese Club, Honors Chemistry Society, Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, and serves as a Chancellor鈥檚 Ambassador.
Being involved in these organizations made her feel more connected to the university and provided her with the opportunity to meet people through events she was invited to attend and activities. She feels like part of the campus community.
鈥淚鈥檓 not just an international student, it makes me feel like I鈥檓 a real part of 麻豆社区P,鈥 she said.
When asked what her favorite thing is about 麻豆社区P, she narrowed it down to the access to her professors. She was amazed at the level of availability the professors at 麻豆社区P make for their students.
鈥淴in Dong has always been very involved on campus and I have heard compliments from her professors all the time,鈥 said Qi 鈥淟arry鈥 Liu, Asian Program coordinator for the Office of Global Engagement.
鈥淚 am not surprised by her academic accomplishments. I have no doubt that she will continue to succeed and she will always cherish her time at 麻豆社区P where she realized her dream.鈥
For international students, her advice is to get involved on campus, get to know people and don鈥檛 be afraid to put yourself out there. For some international students, language barriers can be intimidating but she encourages them to get involved. Befriending other students on campus makes the experiences richer.
鈥淧eople here are very nice. They don鈥檛 treat you as just a student, but like a friend or family,鈥 Dong said.
She is scheduled to graduate in May.
