Yilin Zhang
A student who has majored in International Economics and Trade(Sino-US 2+2 program) from the year 2019.
A current senior who studies at the University of Northern Iowa
Already received multiple offers, including Columbia University(in the city of New York, USA), New York University(USA), University of Melbourne(Australia)
About to matriculate at Columbia university(in the city of New York, USA), majoring in TESOL( Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Used to serve as a monitor of the class and the director of the international relations division of the student government of the college of business during my time at SDJU
Experience and further thoughts:
First of all, I feel really grateful that I made up my mind to come to the US to study abroad during the tough covid period, which is the correct decision I made and firmly contributed to what I have achieved till this point. During my junior and senior time at UNI, I got the opportunities to practice my English capacity intensively, expand my academic knowledge, accumulate local working experience, foster friendships with friends from several countries and diverse backgrounds, enrich my multicultural competency, all of which play a pivotal role in terms of my graduate school application process.
From my perspective, as the surging number of test takers of graduate school entrance examinations in China is getting more severe at present, being able to study overseas in the US gives me a chance to find an alternative way to seek opportunities for pursuing higher education degrees, indeed, leading to getting enrolled at one of the most reputable schools not only in the states but also around the globe. While here at UNI, I was lucky to continuously reap rewards ranging from English language capability, technical skill sets, multicultural competency, and international perspectives. As long as the schedule is met, I dedicate myself to participating in different activities on campus, academic seminars, community internships, and fieldwork to sharpen my skills further while also gaining valuable experiences.
Turning to mention how I went through all of those rigorous procedures of a graduate school application, the career office and professional distinction office in the college of business are two primary contributors to my academic breakthrough. They would constantly offer academic and professional support, including building my resume and polishing my application documents (i.e., personal statements). They tended to tailor everything based on my distinctive situation and past achievements, which gave me a more holistic understanding of what I wished to accomplish in the future.
Although the whole application process consisted of dilemmas and challenges, thanks to all the invaluable support and assistance I received from school, parents, and friends, I successfully submitted all of the mandatory application materials before the final deadline of my applications. Afterward, I was fortunate to hear feedback from multiple universities I applied to initially, including Columbia University. The long-lasting dream of getting admitted to those elite schools has become a reality.
Before closure, I feel glorious to have this chance to share some of my personal suggestions and thoughts regarding how to properly get yourself prepared for 2+2 program study as well as graduate school application if you are willing to apply sometime in the future:
Based on your own financial and academic foundation, please plan ahead as early as possible. Action speaks louder than words. Utilize the chance surrounding you and implement your plan right into real practice. Stay consistent and remain humble when dealing with your academics and professional developments, always try to seek further room for improvement and do self-correction occasionally. Best wishes to anyone who is on the way to pursuing your degree, about to join a study abroad program, or wishes to apply for graduate school studies.
Offer of Columbia University/NYU