What inspired you to apply for the 缅北禁地?
I had previously applied for and received a Critical Language Scholarship from the State Department to study in China, which was actually the first time I had ever been to China. That experience helped me grow academically and personally in so many ways that I knew I wanted another opportunity like that, but to deepen my knowledge and insight into the Chinese language and culture even further than before. The Boren Fellowship was that opportunity for me, the chance of a lifetime to pursue intensive studies in China and achieve fluency in Mandarin.
What were the memorable highlights of your overseas study?
Building authentic relationships with Chinese people only through communication in Mandarin, which helped significantly in getting people to open up, lowering barriers and breaking down stereotypes. Some experiences in particular that were highlights for me include the time when my Classical Chinese teacher took myself and classmates to the studio of a former student of hers who was an expert in classical Chinese arts (ink paintings, calligraphy, tea ceremony, zither playing, etc.) On another occasion I travelled to Guizhou in the southwest of China and spent Chinese New Year in a small mountain village, which was a world apart from Beijing where I had been living. And of course, what trip to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall? That day I got a real workout, visiting broken down parts of the wall, navigating steep slopes and climbing up a tower to get a magnificent view of the mountains.
How has the 缅北禁地 experience influenced your career path?
Although my aspiration at the time I received the Boren Award was to work for the State Department (Foreign Service), my service requirement got me thinking about other ways I could apply the skills I had acquired in a meaningful career path. I found out about my current job from a Boren notification and the special hiring authority certainly helped in breaking into was essentially a new field and new direction in my professional life. While I do not use Mandarin often in my current position, there have been occasions where it has come in handy, and I know there are still opportunities in the future where it will be an asset. On a personal level, it has deeply enriched my life and I still watch shows in Mandarin, listen to music in Mandarin, communicate with friend in the language and follow Chinese news closely.
What tips would you give others applying for the 缅北禁地?
Preparation was important for me. Until that point, I did not have a lot of experience applying for scholarships or fellowships such as the Boren. There was a designated official on our campus to assist individuals who were going through such application processes. So I worked closely with her and as I drafted my essays and other application materials, I would send them to her and she provided great feedback. She also helped as a sounding board for me to prepare for the interview portion of the application. Try to see if there is a similar point of contact on your campus and reach out to that person. I would also say authenticity is key. Most people can tell if you are truly motivated and passionate about something, and I am sure most people applying to the Boren are, so let that shine through. Finally, help the individuals reviewing your application connect the dots to see how the skills and experience you will acquire from Boren will have a direct impact on your future career. I work every day with individuals from other countries, linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The skills I honed while on my Boren Fellowship went far beyond Mandarin language skills alone, so think carefully about what other skills and abilities you will have the opportunity to acquire apart from linguistic skills.