Our summer International Student Spotlight series continues and we meet Jolene Fu from Malaysia, who is studying biochemistry at Rutgers University. Jolene is an Orientation Leader (OL) and will help out at our International Student Orientation, held in late August (and again in the spring semester). Our OLs volunteer their time and energy to ensure that new international students arriving to Rutgers feel welcomed and prepared to start their academic journey at Rutgers. Learn more about Jolene and her experiences at Rutgers along with some of her favorite things.
Why did you choose to come to Rutgers?
As a biochemistry major, I chose Rutgers because it is in New Jersey - one of the top biotech hotspots in the country – and for its rich programs (externships, the STEM Professional Development Course, etc.) that allow me to network with individuals from pharmaceutical companies nearby. Another reason is the highly diverse student and faculty body. More than half of my friends are first or second-generation immigrants, and our shared experiences of living abroad foster strong bonds, making Rutgers feel like a second home.
What are you studying at Rutgers?
I am a Biochemistry major. My favorite course is Genetics! I enjoyed being in awe of nature’s ability to overcome hardships and optimize survival strategies.
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
The lawn behind Voorhees Chapel. It is always peaceful whenever you go. There’s a ledge that I like to sit on when it’s dark and overlook New Brunswick.
What is the thing that surprised you most when you came to Rutgers?
How friendly everyone is. The dedication and friendliness that the Rutgers staff and faculty helped me come out of my shell and encouraged me to communicate my needs to them. The students here are incredibly accepting, and I feel like I can talk about anything without judgment. Additionally, the collaborative atmosphere among students, the willingness of professors to provide extra help, and the numerous support services available, such as counseling and academic advising, all contributed to making my transition to Rutgers much smoother than I expected.
What is your favorite restaurant in the area and why?
Noodle is Calling in downtown New Brunswick. I love that I can get my comfort food at an affordable price, and the restaurant owner is super friendly too!
What do you do when you are not studying?
I’m part of the Rutgers Chinese Dance Troupe, and we meet twice a week. I also work on campus for the Office of Information technology as a consultant and for the Rutgers Global office as a course instructor.
Why did you decide to become an Orientation Leader?
I wanted to support international students, just like how those who came before me helped me when I first arrived. It has been a highly rewarding experience, acting as a mentor and a point of contact for students as they transition to life in the United States. During my orientation as a freshman, I experienced how orientation fosters friendships and expands your network at Rutgers. Being able to meet people from all over the world and from all walks of life was one of my biggest motivators to become an Orientation Leader.
What advice would you give to a new international student at Rutgers?
The Rutgers community is a huge resource, and you should take advantage of it! Rutgers offers incredible opportunities to make friends, to find jobs, to develop new hobbies, and more. People are more willing to help you than you think – it’s only a matter of asking. Joining clubs and events on campus, striking up conversations with your classmates, and scheduling advising sessions with your advisor are all things you can do.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In graduate school, pursuing a PhD in the U.S.
Learn more about International Student Orientation, coming up on August 26-28. 2024.
Learn more about becoming an Orientation Leader.