Mentor Appreciation
Jacqueline Choo, a UGRAD at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, shares her story about the people who have advised and supported her throughout her U.S. exchange program.
Being in a foreign country alone is tough. However, with the right attitude and guidance, everything can seem so much better. I am glad that throughout my stay in Minnesota, I have met so many great people who have helped and guided me along the way; I can never thank them enough because each and every one of them is special in their own way. In particular, I would like to express my gratitude and thanks to two people that I met here at University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.
Denise Wong, a fellow Malaysian student who I met only here in Minne-snow-ta. Thanks to her advice and guidance I am able to take good care of myself. Whether commuting from one place to another, enrolling in the correct classes, joining clubs and activities, meeting new people and most importantly getting the right winter gear, she is always there to guide and teach me. Thanks to her I was able to adapt to my ‘American’ life with very little culture shock – she is always there to consult with about the doubts and problems that I face. She is a sweet little girl but with BIG BIG heart!
Alex Braafladt, also an Aerospace Engineering student like myself. Alex has always been great at providing assistance with EVERYTHING that had to do with assignments, the library, books, software installation and more. Because we are both taking courses in the same major, I always go to him if I need help with my homework or finding internship opportunities. Despite being a senior student who is really busy with senior projects, activities and job-seeking procedures, Alex does not hesitate to help me whenever I reach out to him. Through him, I am able to learn a lot more about the Aerospace field here in the United States, including recent research developments and the career prospects of an Aerospace Engineering student upon graduation. Alex inspired me to continue working toward my goals by participating in a variety of student research projects and groups on campus.
Apart from Denise and Alex, there are many friends and advisers who are always there for me. I am glad to know that I still have a ‘family’ that cares for me and I will continue to care about even though I am thousand miles away from home.
– Jacqueline Choo, Malaysia, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities