Meet Chiling

Name: Chiling Chen

Class of: 2019

Program: Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business

"I think getting this scholarship is what I am proudest of. I am really appreciative that I get this opportunity and it really means a lot for me and encourages me to be more hardworking."

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

I knew about Southern New Hampshire University through 3+1 double degree program from my university in Taiwan. I think it will be a good chance to experience a different life and study in the U.S. This opportunity brought me to Southern New Hampshire University, and I think it's the best decision I have ever made. 

What was your hope in receiving a college education?  How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

I am very excited to learn different subjects, like Hospitality Management. I majored in the English language at the university in Taiwan. Hospitality Management is a new thing for me. I have been learning more and more while going to SNHU. I am looking forward to starting an internship. I hope to not only take courses at SNHU but also experience the working environment at hotels in the U.S.

Many alumni and students talk about the friendly and supportive community at SNHU.  Does this resonate with you? In what ways has your SNHU experience felt “personal”?

I remembered the first day I went to SNHU, the Uber driver told me SNHU is the best university in New Hampshire and that I made a great decision. I didn't know anything about SNHU at the time, but I have had a great impression of this university. While continuing my studies here, I am 100% sure that I made a right choice. I love the environment and people here. I think SNHU has the best learning environment for their students and the professors are very friendly.

What inspired you to choose your area of study?

My family supports my decision to come to SNHU, and I did lots of research before I came to the U.S. Compared to a big city like Boston or New York, I like New Hampshire better. I think the environment of SNHU is really good for the students. SNHU not only has a beautiful campus but also a quiet, great, and clean environment to stay and study.

What is your dream job?

In my future career, I want to work in a U.S. hotel to plan some hospitality events and start my own business in Taiwan. I plan to open a villa there where travelers can visit and stay. In addition, I hope to one day hire my own employees and manager to take care of the villa and I can focus on my work if I decide to work in the U.S.

Who at SNHU (teacher, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your SNHU experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

Brigid Williams was my advisor. She supports me a lot and gives me advice. I'm really appreciative of that.

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I used to be in CAPE (Coordinators of Activities and Programming Events) and Cake Decorating Club at SNHU. I also volunteered to help with some activities, including the major concert and Global World Fair.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

I think the most challenging thing is doing a presentation in front of the class. As a Hospitality student, it's important to stand in front of the class to share my own opinions. I was really anxious when I was preparing my first presentation because English is not my first language. My professor, Elizabeth Sheehan, encourages me and gives me a lot of tips on presenting. I’ve been getting a lot better after a few presentations and have become more confident.

What are you proudest of?

I think getting this scholarship is what I am proudest of. I am really appreciative that I get this opportunity and it really means a lot for me and encourages me to be more hardworking. 

How have alumni impacted you as a student? (classroom speakers, scholarship donations, mentors, internship and career assistance)

I have joined some activities at SNHU. SNHU alumni I have met all feel that they have learned a lot at SNHU and have had great job opportunities. One of my professors also graduated from SNHU, and he keeps telling us we have the best resources here.

What advice would you give to an incoming student?

I would say, "do your best and use the SNHU resources appropriately." I think SNHU has the best university website and library. I am so thankful that I’m able to use all the resources on the SNHU website.

What are your plans following graduation?

I am looking forward to looking for an internship before graduating and hopefully get a great opportunity of OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduating from SNHU.

In what ways do you think you will stay involved as an alumnus/a?

I would like to share my personal experience at SNHU with other students. I have learned a lot here and it is my honor to be a part of SNHU family.

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