Last Thursday, we welcomed Chloe Liu, alumna from Class of 2024, back to VIS for a sharing session on her university experience at the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego), where she is studying Molecular and Cellular Biology.

Drawing from her own experience as a college student, Chloe shared what life at university is like, from managing a more flexible schedule and choosing courses to joining clubs, building communities, participating in research, and studying abroad. She also introduced students to some of the opportunities she has pursued at UC San Diego, including laboratory research, campus activities, and a study abroad program in Edinburgh, Scotland focused on genetics and pandemics.

One of the key messages Chloe shared was that students do not need to have everything figured out before entering university. College can be a time to try new things, discover what you enjoy, and even change direction along the way. She encouraged students to explore different subjects, pursue activities they are genuinely passionate about, and learn from the experiences that help them better understand themselves.

Chloe also shared her perspective on applying to U.S. universities, She encouraged students to look beyond simply listing achievements. Instead, Chloe emphasized the importance of telling their own stories, showing what they have learned from their experiences, and allowing their interests and character to come through in their applications.

Chloe’s journey offered our students a firsthand perspective on what that process can look like, and a reminder that the path forward does not always have to be decided all at once.

A big thank-you to Chloe, for returning to VIS and sharing your experiences and insights with our students!