Global Awareness: Students cultivate and develop their appreciation for diversity and each individual’s unique differences. For example, consider course work, study abroad, involvement in cultural organizations or activities, etc .

During my time at OSU, I have had the opportunity to explore and experience many different cultures. This led me to double major into Chinese which would compliment my major in Finance. This would allow me to hopefully work overseas after I graduate. On top of that, I have recently taken Japanese courses as well out of interest for the culture and language. During the summer of 2015, I had the opportunity to study at the National Taiwan Normal University in Taipei, Taiwan to help develop my Mandarin skills. I also got to go around the island to experience the vibrant culture in Taiwan. The blend of Japanese and Chinese cultures in Taiwan truly makes a unique environment. Also, Taiwan is one of the most Westernized Asian countries in the Far East so it is awesome to see the blend of the best of the West and East. I encourage everybody to visit the beautiful island aptly named Isla Formosa by the Portuguese.

Original Inquiry: Honors & Scholars students will understand the research process by engaging in experiences ranging from in-class scholarly endeavors to creative inquiry projects to independent experiences with top researchers across campus and in the global community.

In my Traditional Chinese Culture class, we are tasked with finding links between Modern China and Ancient China. A research topic I chose was to question the effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine, especially acupuncture. Through this project, I was able to learn about all kinds of weird concoctions the Ancient Chinese used to cure ailments from urine and feces to ground up animal bones. Most Traditional Chinese Medicine is completely bogus but the plant based medicines do have credibility. Acupuncture, however, actually has some scientific credibility to it. Targeting the various nerves in our bodies can have a positive effect on our mental and body health. Although I have not had acupuncture performed on me before, I can see why it became so popular all around the world.

Academic Enrichment: Honors & Scholars students will pursue academic excellence through rigorous curricular experiences beyond the university norm both in and out of the classroom.

In the future, as a Taiwanese American student, I want to do business in the Chinese speaking world, acting as a bridge between China and Taiwan. Also, since Taiwan has amicable relations with Japan, I could also forge a bridge between China and Japan. This is why I have chosen to pursue a dual degree in Finance and Chinese as well as looking into getting a minor in Japanese. This would definitely allow me to fulfill my aspirations to the best of my abilities. I am lucky to be attending OSU where the Fisher Business school is one of the top business schools in the nation. Also, the Japanese and Chinese language programs here at OSU are one of the most comprehensive in the nation. I strive to be the best in my classes because of the nature of what I want to do in the future. There will no doubt be a lot of pressure politically and socially if I am to act as an ambassador between Taiwan, China, and Japan due to deep grievances left after WWII. If I am not able to be the best in my classes, how can I hope to possibly open up lasting dialogue between these nations? To be completely honest, my GE courses are not my main focus as I am extremely busy with my two degrees. However, the purpose of the GE courses are to make students more well rounded and I believe that in getting two degrees and possibly a minor will make me as well rounded as can be. I am committed to excellence so that one day I may become the pride of my family as well as OSU.

Leadership Development: Honors & Scholars students will develop leadership skills that can be demonstrated in the classroom, in the community in their co-curricular activities, and that prepares them for their future roles in society.

I am currently involved with the Kendo Club at OSU. Kendo is an ancient form of sword fighting that can be found throughout the Far East with this being the Japanese form. Practicing Kendo teaches me a lot about discipline and grace, qualities that I strive to master so that I may become a better leader. Kendo is scored based on the flawless execution of strikes on an opponent as well as hitting the right spots. Discipline is required to show restraint when needed and to seize the moment when an opportunity arises. I believe a great leader must know when and where to retreat or go on the offensive. Gracefully striking your opponent shows mastery over the art as well as knowing the opponent. A leader must have complete control over what he/she is doing and also to know the competition inside and out. These two qualities are needed in the business world where performance at work does not decide everything. Social grace is also required when dealing with potential clients where knowing the person will aid in persuasion. This summer I have an internship with the government, however it is quite sensitive so I won’t give specifics but I do believe that what I will be doing will develop my professionalism as this will be my first job. My leadership style places an emphasis on fairness and trust. I believe that being too hard on subordinates will not only hinder progress on a project, but also inhibit any professional growth for me and the subordinates. Also, trusting in others is key when developing relations with others. If I don’t trust my subordinates to do their job, then I would be slowing down the project with redundant oversight.

Service Engagement: Honors & Scholars students will commit to service to the community.

I am currently volunteering with the Tzu Chi Foundation. It is a Taiwanese Buddhist organization that provides aid wherever needed all around the world. I have gone to nursing homes around Columbus to give the elderly some company and to help out where I can. I plan to continue my involvement with the organization because of its mission and commitment to helping out around the Columbus area.  Volunteering with them has made me realize how lucky I am to have a healthy body and to be in my prime. It is so easy to forget how quickly time flies and it has made me cherish every moment of my time here at OSU.