# I Am Stanford OC Blog Posts

**Source**: https://approaching.stanford.edu/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts
**Parent**: https://approaching.stanford.edu/i-am-stanford-blog-posts

- [Meet Approaching OC Bryan](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#Bryan)
- [Meet Communities OC Malik](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#Malik)
- [Meet Logistics OC Sophia](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#Sophia)
- [Meet Social Media OC Malaika](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#Malaika)
- [Meet Orientation Volunteer OC Jack](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#Jack)
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- [Meet Ana - El Centro Chicano y Latino Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#anapost)
- [Meet Anjana - Women's Community Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#anjanapost)
- [Meet Myrka - Queer Student Resources Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#myrkapost)
- [Meet Komi - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#komipost)
- [Meet Tesvara - Asian American Activities Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#tesvarapost)
- [Meet Austin - Black Community Services Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#austinpost)
- [Meet Aurelia - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#aureliapost)
- [Meet Esmeralda - FLI Student Success Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#esmepost)
- [Meet Natalie - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#nataliepost)
- [Meet Yuliana - Queer Student Resources Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#yulianapost)
- [Meet David - FLI Student Success Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#davidpost)
- [Meet Farah - Markaz Resource Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#farahpost)
- [Meet Maya - Black Community Services Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#mayapost)
- [Meet Ja'Ziah - Black Community Services Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#ja'ziahpost)
- [Meet Jennifer - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#jennniferpost)
- [Meet Sonnet - Asian American Activities Center Coordinator](/i-am-stanford-oc-blog-posts#sonnetpost)

## Meet Approaching OC Bryan!

Hey y’all!! My name is Bryan Gonzalez (he/him), and I am so excited to be one of your Orientation Coordinators (OCs) for New Student Orientation (NSO) 2025! First off, I would like to say, WELCOME TO STANFORD!! WOOHOO!! Whether you are an incoming Frosh or a Transfer student, I know this campus will become your home away from home for a few years, and I hope you enjoy every moment of it!

To get started, I’m a rising junior from a small, rural town in Southern Illinois called West Frankfort and am proud to be from the Midwest (although I have lived everywhere in the U.S.). I have an older brother and a younger sister (shoutout middle children!!) and I’m studying English with a minor in Education (I’m a humanities kid at heart)! In my free time, when I’m not reading Charles Dickens or John Keats, I love going on runs around Lake Lagunita, drinking an iced caramel latte while talking with my friends, attending concerts, listening to music, and ranting about the latest album release from my favorite artists! (I can talk about Taylor Swift for HOURS!).

That’s a realllyyyyy brief introduction about me, but you’ll get to know more about me in the following paragraphs and throughout the entire summer! I know y’alls emotions are ALL over the place, but as one of your OCs, I’m here to hopefully ease some of those nerves you might have and help you learn a little more about Stanford! So, here’s more about me and my Stanford journey! Although I say that I’m from Southern Illinois, I’m actually from a lot of places across the U.S.! I was born in North Carolina and have lived in Illinois, Oregon, and also California! Coming from a low-income, Latino family in a small town in the Midwest, I honestly had no idea where life would take me!

I have always wanted to be an elementary school teacher, so when choosing schools, I had no specific place in mind where I wanted to study. During my senior year of high school, I learned about the QuestBridge National Scholarship Program and decided to rank Stanford as my number one choice. On December 1st, 2022, I remember nervously opening my student portal and seeing CONGRATULATIONS, YOU MATCHED in big letters as confetti filled my screen!

The rest of my senior year was a whirlwind. Soon after, the summer before fall quarter, I participated in the Leland Scholars Program (LSP), which was designed to help first-generation and/or low-income students transition into this new environment. Through LSP, I was able to learn so much about myself, and I also began to feel more comfortable in my skin and was ready to take on whatever Stanford had to offer! To this day, my closest friends are those I met through this program <33 To those participating in the new Summer Bridge program, I hope you’ll have a similar experience!

My frosh fall, I moved into my dorm room in Alondra, located in Florence Moore (FloMo), as I was participating in the Structured Liberal Education (SLE) program that Stanford offers! Here in Alondra, I had the opportunity to meet some of my favorite people on this campus! From having late-night talks about musicals and Taylor Swift albums to studying in the lounge and pulling multiple all-nighters for PSET classes, Alondra became my home.

I found my frosh fall to be an amazing time to get to know a lot of different people, expand one’s horizons, and also just grow as a person! Everyone had just arrived on campus and was interested in making new friends around campus and in class, so don’t be afraid or intimidated by all the new faces! Embrace it! It’s likely that you’ll know more about yourself at the end of your frosh fall, and that’s good! Change can be beautiful!

I decided that it would be best for me to take only 12 units my fall quarter, and that worked best for me! So, don’t be intimidated if you take a “low” amount of units! Do whatever works for you since you know yourself the best!

I then decided to switch things up my Winter Quarter. I took PWR 1, COLLEGE, MATH 19, and CS 106A. I had never heard of Computer Science before getting to Stanford, so I decided to take an introductory CS class to see what it was all about. That class was CS 106A. I took it with my friend, and it was honestly one of my favorite classes I’ve taken at Stanford!!! CS 106A challenged me so much, but I enjoyed every second of it! This class not only taught me the basics of Python, but it also taught me the importance of reaching out to others when you are struggling, attending office hours and connecting with the teaching staff, meeting new people who are in a different field from you, and so much more!

Additionally, in my Winter Quarter, I began working at the Haas Center for Public Service. Here, I worked with the Ravenswood Reads team as I began to tutor 2nd graders in order to aid in developing literacy and confidence in reading and writing. I LOVEEE working with children and being surrounded by kids who have huge aspirations and who love to talk about whatever fascinates them in the world. Since my frosh winter, I have continued working with Ravenswood Reads, and I will always be their number one supporter!! <33 I also worked as a member of the Peer Facilitator Program (PFP) and also began training to become a Frosh 101 Co-lead for the incoming frosh my sophomore year!

Back in my academic life,  I enjoyed my time in CS 106A so much that during my Spring Quarter, I decided to take CS 106B, MATH 20, Social Dance, and also CS 106E. As I was following the sequence, the difficulty definitely increased, but so did the amount of knowledge I gained!! By the end of the quarter, I knew majoring in CS was not the right path for me, but I was thankful to myself that I was willing to explore topics and classes that were outside of my comfort zone and that I had never been exposed to! Personally, I believe it is such a privilege to be able to learn about a vast number of topics and become exposed to new ideas, and so I will always be grateful for my journey in figuring out what best suited my interests! It doesn’t matter where you are, throughout your life, you will always be learning and changing, so please don’t be scared of evolving or growing!

Well, I guess it’s time for me to say goodbye for now, but thank you so much for reading all that I’ve written! That was a little bit about me, but throughout the summer, you’ll definitely get to know more and I’ll be able to answer any and all questions that you have for me! So, don’t be afraid to ask them!! :D I always look forward to talking to y’all and answering whatever your concerns are!

Anyways, remember to be yourself, enjoy your summer, and once again, WELCOME TO THE FARM!!

Yours truly,

Bryan Gonzalez

## Meet Communities OC Malik!

YOU MADE IT! Welcome to The Farm– the place you’ll meet your future lifelong friends, the institution where you’ll explore literally anything and everything, and the school you’ll be proud to brag to friends & family back home. If you love wonderful weather, pleasant people, and invigorating adventures, then you definitely made the right decision choosing Stanford; that’s right, you chose Stanford, not the other way around.

The flight that takes only four hours– even though it feels like twenty-four –brings me to Stanford from Chicago. I grew up in the neighborhood of Little Palestine, the largest Palestinian-diaspora community in the United States. Coming from a place where my entire community spoke another language, and was uniformly homogeneous in ethnicity and beliefs, Stanford was a drastically different environment. I thought it would be impossible for someone like me to succeed– I kept telling myself that if it was difficult as a FLI-student alone, imagine with all the other things going on. I was obviously intimidated by the challenges of establishing a community and belonging at Stanford, but I learned to become comfortable by exploring these differences– I’m the type of person who welcomes and explores unlike attributes that would typically constitute my milieu, unknowingly creating one of my biggest strengths. I don’t see contrasts as things that separate us, but rather things that highlight things that make us unique. Everyone on campus, including myself, was in no way–

–indistinguishable. For example, apart from being a full time student, in my free-time I enjoy writing thematic reflections, usually through really complex analogues and allegories– I love reading them to my friends and seeing their faces change when they realize the true meaning behind my writing. I even practice Arabic calligraphy on my chalk-board! Yes, I know, It’s weird I have a chalk board in my room. Yes, I have it hanging on my wall . It’s okay though, because I have so many other cool things in my room to offset it, like my matcha set and powder I get from my favorite spot off campus, the brass and bronze Palestinian-design tea set from back home, and my cologne collection! My favorite summer scent (wearing it as I’m typing) is Tom Ford’s Neroli Portofino. The citrus, white florals, and fresh aromatics really shine in the Stanford Sun.

“What’s your name? What’s your major? What’s your dorm?” permeated Stanford campus the first week of NSO, and the best part– I didn’t remember anything after meeting 100 people at one of the million events going on. Trying to memorize the acronyms for literally everything, like “MemChu,” “Tres,” “far/near,” which I’ll leave you to try to figure out yourselves, is so much. After a full exhausting day of moving my entire life across vast distances,  I got to my dorm: Living in Wilbur Hall’s Arroyo, themed Arro-Yoda, I had the classic frosh dorm experience; the one-room double, complete opposite roommate, and hyperenergetic RAs. Being jet-lagged and seeing a group of Stanford students dancing in baby yoda costumes was definitely checked off my bucket-list…after I added it on there. The funny thing is, the most overwhelming part for me was keeping track of my key and my ID. I was notorious for forgetting the key to my room to the point an entire dorm slack group chat was made for me getting locked out. It descended into them taking pictures of me knocking on the door after I refused to accept my punishment of reciting a haiku. Side note- invest in a lanyard, especially if you’re staying out until 3am.

Things settled in pretty quickly after this, and you can start exploring what you want to study, who your close friends will be, and just integrating yourself into Stanford. Initially I planned on studying chemical engineering on the pre-med track, and participated in the Stanford Summer Engineering Academy (a program that has evolved into the new summer bridge), where I consolidated my interest of study. I then realized my passion wasn’t to solely serve humanity through its technological advancement, but rather through its understanding of humanity and life itself, and decided on a majoring in Human Biology on the pre-med track.

So you might be wondering: “Malik, why are you telling us your field of study when you literally said that you'll ask/be asked this inquiry a million times?

It didn’t end there: I was asked, and I replied. That didn’t mean it was true– even if I hadn’t known it yet. To all the STEM pre-meds, you’ll soon learn how amazing the humanities are at Stanford, so much so to the point where you want to do more work by majoring in it. Instead of falling into the CS pipeline, I fell into the Philosophy one! I’d learned I didn’t just want to heal people and advance humanity’s health, but rather advance the search for understanding humanity’s soul. Why we do things is often a question of nature vs nurture, we often understand nature through human biology, and nurture through some humanities, in my lens, it’s philosophy.

That was a lot. Now for some fun stuff! In my first year here, I’ve become well known for three things: caffeine, leaving campus, and vlogging everything. Oh…and yapping. I’m really loud and love talking; born to yap, forced to be studious I guess. I absolutely love cafe-hopping, and you’ll always see me with some type of caffeinated drink; my favorite right now is the Iced Matcha Latte from Maruwu Seicha on University Avenue! Honestly, Uni-Ave is just the best (another abbreviation). It has so many cafes and shopping spots. I always treat myself to a little trip to Downtown Palo Alto after my chemistry lectures, especially when a new spot opens up. The best part about it– going down Palm Drive to get there. Another thing I can’t explain, you just have to do it. I also make coffee and matcha in my dorm, and any coffee shop in a 10-mile radius has fallen victim to my caffeine addiction. I also vlog quite literally everything to send to friends and family, so if you hear someone randomly saying “Hey guys welcome back to another vlog,” chances are it’s me. I also love to include guest-appearances, so if you wanna join just come up and say hi.

Please do, social anxiety is not a thing for me. I can’t wait for each and every one of you to experience your own journey at Stanford!

## Meet Logistics OC Sophia!

Welcome to Stanford!! Like you, I’m counting down the days till NSO. (I’m happy to report that we are now at T-81 days.) As you wait to start college, I expect that you are very excited and - if you’ll admit it - a tad nervous, too. We can’t wait to see you here this fall! In the meantime, however, we’ll be sharing what you can expect on this beautiful, sunny campus.

My name is Sophia Younge, and I’m a rising junior studying International Relations with a minor in Psychology. I am working this summer as your Events Coordinator OC! I’ll be helping organize some of the cornerstone events of NSO, whether that’s Convocation or Faces of Community.

You might be worried right now about finding your place or path in college, so I’d like to share a little of my own story about coming to Stanford.

### Why not knowing anything is a great place to begin

You may have guessed that when I arrived at Stanford, I had little idea of what I wanted to do. If you did, you’d be right! In my first meeting with my academic advisor, I was asked a series of common questions to get to know me and my interests. After we had established that I had neither a career nor a major in mind, I was asked what my favorite classes were and if I was leaning toward STEM or humanities. I replied that I liked everything and was interested in trying everything too. And I’ve done just that. I’ve taken everything from calculus to archaeology and economics to English.

I now have an answer to give my academic advisor (ie, I’m majoring in International Relations), which may come as a relief to both her and me, but I don’t regret the serpentine path I took to where I am now. I admire the passion and determination of some of my friends who know what they want and dedicate their time to their aspirations. It can feel nerve-wracking and frustrating to have a foggy vision of your future. But I want to stress that coming in undecided is a fine place to begin. Stanford intends for you to try a variety of classes! Although I’ve only been here for two years, I’ve very nearly fulfilled all of my general education requirements.

So if you are undecided, like I was, I advise you not to worry! You’ll have the time and opportunity to explore numerous different paths. With each class, you’ll get a better vision of the work you enjoy and the work you don’t. Your professors, advisors, and friends will support you along the way. Don’t be afraid to try something new or uncertain! I can’t wait to see what you’ll discover!

### How it can take time to find your footing

College can be a difficult transition to manage. Besides moving to a new area (or continent), you’re also forming new friendships and taking on new challenges. So, if you’re finding it overwhelming or difficult, remember just how much you are tackling! And remember that you’ll quickly get used to campus and settle into a rhythm. Even just feeling comfortable in your new dorm will make everything else easier to manage.

Right now, you might be hearing that “college is the best time of your life.” I certainly did. It can be hard then if your college experience doesn’t live up to your expectations. My first year was hard and full of challenges. It may have taken me time, but I found my footing nonetheless. Now, in my sophomore year, I have amazing friends and was blessed with the best roommate!

I really hope that you have a seamless transition to college. But if you don’t, I want you to know that you’re not alone. It can take more than a quarter to settle in. However, I want to offer you an assurance that you will find your footing. Even if you don’t meet the right people right away, with each quarter, you meet new people in your classes, clubs, and other activities. For me, it took moving to a new dorm at the start of my sophomore year to find my good friends. Perhaps I wasn’t lucky my first year, but in my second year, I found two of my best friends just down my hall! So, if at first it doesn’t work out, don’t despair. Each new class or event presents an opportunity to meet the friends you’ll come to love.

### Why you should form the habits you want as soon as you arrive

College gives you a new start. If you’ve always wanted to do something, this fall might be the perfect time to start whatever it is! When you move, you lose your old routines and environmental cues and have the opportunity to develop a new structure for your life. During my senior year of high school, I barely had any time to sleep and found that I often didn’t have enough time to exercise regularly. The summer before college, I picked up running at my local gym to prepare for my arrival on campus. Within 3 days of arriving, I forced myself to gather the courage to run outside in the unfamiliar place. I have run ever since.

I find that the first few days of anything are important to setting the stage for how you'll act in the future. On my first day of class, every quarter, I vow to raise my hand no matter what. Even in large lecture halls with 400 people, I’ll raise my hand. Why? Because habits are powerful. As soon as you raise your hand and speak once, it gets easier to speak next time. Soon enough, you’ll participate regularly without fear.

I urge you to capitalize on your first few days and weeks at Stanford! NSO and the ensuing weeks are a prime opportunity to forge a new self. I used my frosh fall to build an understanding of myself as a healthy, active person. People in my dorm began recognizing me as a committed runner. Their perception of me became a powerful tool to reinforce my own behavior. If others understood me as an active person, it felt hard (even wrong) to contradict that understanding. So, if you’ve always wanted to be more active, vocal, outgoing, daring, or anything else, you can make that the new you here on campus! Don’t let fear, uncertainty, or unfamiliarity hold you back. After all, no one - or next to no one - knows you yet on campus.

Importantly, if you feel after NSO and your first quarter here on campus that you haven’t become who you wanted to be in college, each quarter is a new opportunity. Maybe you choose a single class to become that outspoken, passionate student. Or maybe you find a few close friends who will help you develop a habit. The important thing is to capitalize on moments of change to develop habits. Maybe, like me, you want to be more active. Maybe, you want to be more social. Whatever it is, I hope you find the courage to start that new habit! Trust me, you won’t regret trying.

-Sophia

## Meet Social Media OC Malaika!

Hey, incoming Cardinal, my name is Malaika Onyia, and I’m SO excited to be one of your 2025 NSO coordinators! I am a rising sophomore from the suburbs of the best city ever—Los Angeles, California—studying Political Science. I am the oldest child of two Nigerian immigrants and have three amazing siblings. I plan to pursue law in the future. I love sports, specifically basketball (Go Warriors and 49ers!) You can catch me filming or editing a video, trying a new boba spot, grabbing new clothes at Hollister, or sunbathing on the beach.

Last August, during the summer prior to my frosh year, I had the opportunity to participate in the Leland Scholars Program (LSP)—a former Stanford summer program that helped incoming students from underserved backgrounds with the transition to college. During LSP, I met some of the people I held closest to me during my frosh year. The transition to college can be extremely difficult, which is why I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to participate in LSP. I’m so excited that some of you will get to participate in the new Summer Bridge Program, where I know you’ll make good friends, just like I did in LSP. This year, I find myself at Stanford over the summer with a different task: to help make the transition for you all just a little bit easier—and more fun.

Since elementary school, Stanford had been my dream school. I fell in love with everything Stanford-related, and when I finally got a chance to visit during my junior year of high school, I remember telling my mom, “Stanford feels like home.” I applied to Stanford during the Restrictive Early Action cycle. The day decisions came out, I remembered my group chat with my four East Coast friends blowing up, because all four of them had gotten into their REA/ED schools. Given the 3-hour time difference between California and the schools they had applied to, so much pressure built up in the time I had to wait for Stanford to release decisions. I felt pressure to not only get into my school like my friends, but pressure as a first-generation American, the pressure of so many successful family members and family friends, and most of all, pressure from the last four years that I had spent working to reach this point.

 When the clock struck five and I saw the confetti on my screen, I leaped out of my chair, instantly running to hug my mom as my eyes watered. However, those aren’t the last tears I’ve shed since getting into Stanford; I cried while studying for a final the night before, where I didn’t understand a single concept, but I’ve also cried while looking back on pictures from my frosh year and all the fun experiences I’ve had. Stanford has its ups and downs, and I’ve even questioned if it was the right place for me, but just like my elementary school self, I don’t think I’d rather be anywhere else.

This year, I lived in Ujamaa, which is the Black Diaspora ethnic theme dorm. One of my biggest takeaways as a frosh is that your first-year dorm defines a large part of your frosh year experience. Given that you haven’t found your communities yet, you will catch yourself gravitating towards the people you live with. Through Ujamaa, I got to know so many incredible people, who, even though I won’t live with them next year, I know they will be a key part of my three years left here. One of the highlights of my time in Ujamaa was getting to go on an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City during Spring Break. Another highlight was being just a door away from Late Nights at Lakeside(basically a mini fast-food restaurant that’s open till 2 am that sells fire pizookies), watch for the frosh fifteen if you’re in Lagunita Court! I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to be a part of this amazing community.

Outside of my dorm and the classroom, I got a chance to partake in a couple of different experiences and extracurriculars. Some of my favorite ones were being an undergraduate research assistant at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, which was my first time doing real academic research. I was a team manager for the Women’s Volleyball Team, which was a really fun and new experience, and a sports writer and multimedia creator for the Stanford Daily. One of my favorite moments from my time on the Daily was getting flown out to Kentucky to cover a Men’s Basketball Game. I was a committee member for the Nigerian Student Association and an intern for the African Student Association. During spring, I rushed Kappa Alpha Theta and met some great people. Stanford has so many diverse opportunities for you to take advantage of, and trust me, you will find yourself doing things you never expected yourself to.

I’ve learned that so much of the college experience is what you make it. You’ll probably find yourself at a party (and the one that the whole frosh class goes to because they want to experience a college party) during Week 1, and then you’ll end up questioning why you’re there. Or you’ll decide that it's worth it to go through three straight days of socializing even though you’re not the most social person to join a sorority (Go KATs!) You’ll inevitably get tired of the same food and find yourself DoorDashing or going to Tresidder way too much and realize that you are, in fact, a broke college student. Whether you’re like me or your Stanford journey takes a different route, you WILL find your identity and where you belong.

I am so excited to get to know all of you guys over the next few months, and can’t wait to meet you all in the fall! You all have so much to look forward to, and I am so honored that I get to be just a small part in shaping your journey.

Much love,

Malaika

## Meet Orientation Volunteer OC Jack!

### About Me!

Hello, new frosh and transfers! I’m Jack Cowan, a rising junior majoring in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. I’m beyond excited to be part of an amazing Orientation Coordinator team that cannot wait to welcome you to the Farm this fall! On campus, I’m involved with Stanford Men’s Lacrosse, the Stanford Fleet Street Singers, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Action (FCAIA). I love making music with friends, diving into deep conversations, playing any kind of sports, and spending time in the great outdoors. Whether I’m hiking through the foothills, jamming on guitar with people I just met, or staying up way too late discussing who’s the GOAT of basketball (it's Jordan),  I’ve found that Stanford has given me space to grow not just as a student, but as a whole person.

As you’ve probably already heard, Stanford is full of resources, communities, student organizations, and traditions just waiting for you. It’s an exciting time — but I remember how overwhelming it all felt when I was in your shoes. As a habitual planner, I came in with a detailed blueprint for my first year: the communities I’d join, the classes I’d take, even how I’d structure my free time.

What I want to share in this post is how wildly different my actual Stanford experience has been from 18-year-old me’s plan — and how some of the best parts of college so far have come from spontaneous decisions, stepping outside my comfort zone, and changing direction.

### Approaching Stanford

I’ve always considered myself adventurous, and I guess I’d have to be to move 2,431 miles from my small hometown in rural Georgia to a place as unfamiliar and opportunity-rich as Stanford. Admit Weekend was a whirlwind — new faces, student orgs, navigating a massive campus, and trying not to get run over by more bikes than I’d ever seen in my life. Even though I had already committed to Stanford, that weekend was a cherry on top — a thrilling preview of what the next four years might hold. It was also the first time I started imagining myself belonging here, something that had honestly felt a bit abstract before I set foot on campus.

My frosh year roommates and me on our move-in day

I arrived in the fall ready to take on everything Stanford could throw at me. At the time, here were a few things on my to-do list:

- Join the orchestra
- Get plugged into the pre-med community
- Recreate the tight-knit friend group I had back home

As you’re about to hear, I “failed” at all of these. But in the process, Stanford gave me something far better than I ever could have imagined.

I’d played cello for 12 years and was set on joining one of the orchestras. I spent much of the summer before college practicing audition material. But once I got to campus, I stumbled across something totally unexpected: an all-original comedy a cappella group. I’d only vaguely heard of Fleet Street during Admit Weekend, but when I stopped by their table at the Activities Fair, they encouraged me to sign up. What I thought was just an interest form turned out to be an audition signup. Not wanting to back out, I hit “enter,” scheduled the audition, and… well, the rest is history. After an audition, a callback, and a rollout, I became the newest member of the Stanford Fleet Street Singers — a group that’s become one of my deepest sources of friendship and joy.

Fleet Street ended up not just giving me a creative outlet, but a support system. We rehearse, we write, we perform — but more than that, we grow together. Some of my most meaningful late-night conversations, my hardest laughs, and my proudest accomplishments have come through that group. It taught me that when you take a chance on something unfamiliar, you might stumble into a community that sees you and celebrates you in ways you never expected.

Academically, I entered Stanford confident that I was going to medical school. I took Chemistry and Math all year, trying to knock out the pre-med requirements. But no class piqued my interest quite like my Winter Quarter Psych IntroSem. I’d only taken one psych class in high school, so I didn’t know much about the field, but I couldn’t get enough. One psych class led to another, then another, and before I knew it, I’d declared a Psychology major and left pre-med behind. These days, I’d probably say I’m pre-law — but honestly, one of the beautiful things about college is that it’s okay to still be figuring it out.

Changing academic paths felt scary at first. There’s this pressure to “have it all figured out” when you get to college, and letting go of that can feel like failure. But in reality, it’s freedom. It’s growth. I’ve come to believe that uncertainty is one of the most intellectually productive spaces you can live in, because it forces you to be curious, intentional, and open. And that’s where real learning happens.

Socially, I’d hoped to replicate the close-knit friend group I had back home. But being involved in so many different activities pulled me in a lot of directions, and it didn’t leave much space for a single “inner circle.” I want to be clear: you absolutely can have a small, tight group of friends at Stanford — it just wasn’t what happened for me. Instead, I found deep, meaningful friendships spread across very different communities — something I never could have experienced in my small town. It took some adjustment, but over time I realized that if I’d stuck rigidly to my plan, I might never have met so many incredible people.

Some of my favorite moments at Stanford have been unplanned — getting In-N-Out at midnight with a random assortment of dormmates, talking through big life questions during a walk around the Dish, or having a spontaneous jam session that turns into a 2-hour songwriting spiral. These aren’t moments I could have penciled into a planner. They just happen — and they’re the glue that holds together my college experience.

### Looking Forward

In changing directions — academically, socially, and musically — I’ve come to believe that some of the best parts of college come from embracing the unexpected. One of the reasons I wanted to be an Orientation Coordinator this year was to help show incoming students that their Stanford journey doesn’t have to look like what they imagined. In fact, it probably won’t — and that’s part of what makes it so rich and meaningful.

By sharing a bit of my story, I hope to reassure new students and families that Stanford is a place where you’ll grow in confidence, in curiosity, and in your understanding of who you are and who you want to become. I can't wait to welcome you this fall!

Get ready for late-night laughs, unexpected passions, deep friendships, and so many new beginnings. Your Stanford story is uniquely yours — and we’re so excited to be part of how it starts.

## Meet Blog OC Canon!

WELCOME TO STANFORD, Class of 2029 and transfers! I’m Canon, a rising Junior from Los Angeles County studying Data Science & Social Systems with a minor in Biology! I’m your blog Orientation Coordinator, and I’m so excited to congratulate you on starting your journey here!

Like you all probably do now, I had so many questions before arriving here. I was uncertain about what life away from home would look like, which made me excited and nervous. Now, having just finished my sophomore year, I’d like to share what I learned and what the undergraduate experience here looks like.

### **Approaching and Exploring Stanford**

At birth, I was diagnosed with Turner Syndrome - a rare condition of a partially or completely missing X chromosome, which meant multiple heart procedures and short stature throughout my lifetime. I had open heart surgery when I was 4 days old, and received an angioplasty to secure a titanium stent into my aortic valves at age 10. I was grateful that my TS had been diagnosed early, meaning I was able to lead a happy and active life. Coming to Stanford, I was concerned about how to properly represent the Rare Disease community and share my experience, but I knew I wanted to share this part of my identity rather than avoid it. I’m so grateful that I found the incredibly supportive friends I have, who appreciate me for who I am, but also don’t make me feel like TS is my entire identity.

In general, I was excited to try everything and meet people right away, even before coming to Stanford. I wanted a chance to explore college life, meet others, and explore my interests, so I participated in Ignite, a service-oriented pre-orientation program that took place in the few days before NSO began. This became one of the most incredible experiences of my Stanford career - I met new friends, explored campus and the Bay Area, and tapped into my passion for public service that led me to eventually work at the Haas Center for Public Service here!

Being Asian American, I also attended as many of the A3C’s (Asian American Activities Center, one of the several community centers on campus) events as possible, most recently a panel commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. I also joined the Korean Student Association during the first 2 quarters of my freshman year and had the chance to meet other students excited about their Korean heritage. Having this opportunity to explore my culture (I’m half Vietnamese and half Korean) was eye-opening and profound, and I am excited to continue exploring my cultural roots as much as possible.

I also wanted to explore dance at Stanford, and I attended the Common Origins NSO workshop: my first step in finding one of the most meaningful communities to me here. Common Origins is a non-audition dance group known for its welcoming energy and approachable gateway to performance: I loved it so much that I’m now one of the Co-presidents of the group!

Aside from these programs and activities, another significant source of community throughout my first year was my dorm, Cedro. I made friends there who I am still close to today, and cherish the memories that I have from our dorm trip to Lake Tahoe, on-calls (fun Friday and Saturday night activities in the dorm that RAs host), and our end-of-year celebration dinner. I also adored my roommate so much that we ended up rooming together in our second year too! As you prepare to come to Stanford, I encourage you to attend as many dorm events and on-calls as possible and not hesitate to reach out to folks in your dorm who you’d like to know better! Getting a meal or going to an NSO event together can go a long way!

### **“Sophomore Slump” and Navigating Academic Challenges**

There’s a term at colleges across the country called “Sophomore Slump,” which refers to the challenges of a student’s second year as they go further into their major, search for research and internship opportunities, and become more anxious about the impending reality of life after college.

I’ll be the first to admit that sophomore slump hit me hard in some ways, but I can look back now and assure you that while this is a common experience, it won’t necessarily happen to you if you take time to check in with yourself!

The main challenges I faced this past year were academic, mostly because of the way I planned out my courses: I took 2 especially challenging courses in fall quarter! I made it, but it was difficult, and my calculus class became the worst grade I’ve ever received (hopefully it stays that way, haha). In the winter, I overloaded my work and extracurricular activities and withdrew from a course after the midterm. This was especially scary because I never anticipated doing so poorly academically that I needed to retake a course - I heavily leaned on my friends and my family during this time, and met with my academic advisor, section leader, and the head TA of the course to voice my concerns and seek advice. I’m happy to report that I retook the class this past quarter and got a grade that I’m satisfied with!

This was a very stressful aspect of my sophomore year, but I also have many fond memories and experiences that I look back on with nothing but joy. I had the opportunity to become very close with several of the friends that I made in my frosh year and be a part of the Stanford community in ways that were extremely meaningful to me. I co-led a section of Frosh 101 in my frosh dorm, piloted a program for sophomores interested in service at the Haas Center, and had fun with Common Origins. I look back on this year as a period of tremendous personal growth and learning that has made me stronger, and I see the things I wish I did differently as learning moments rather than regrets.

And that’s what I want to communicate about college life: there’s bound to be ups and downs as you navigate life away from home. What matters is what you do when you encounter tough learning moments, and that you stay yourself as you go through college and life in general.  Change can be scary, but ok, too - you might find that as you meet others, your perspectives are changed, or you have experiences you never imagined you would have. Everyone also finds their support system their own way and in their own time, and that’s ok!

Know that the college experience looks different for everybody, but no matter how you’re feeling about coming to Stanford, the OCs and many faculty and students are here as a resource. Be kind to yourselves and one another and keep an open mind as you approach this new experience and meet so many people - you’ll introduce yourself so many times, haha. Enjoy the rest of your summer and see you on campus in the fall!! <3 :)

## Meet Ana - El Centro Chicano y Latino Coordinator

Hola y’all, welcome to Stanford!

I am Ana (she/her/ella), part of the student orientation committee for El Centro Chicano y Latino and a current staff member. I’m incredibly happy to be one of the first people to welcome you to Stanford and to help make it feel like home.

I am a rising sophomore studying Bioengineering and minoring in Medical Humanities. On campus, you’ll usually find me half-studying, half-talking with my friends and snacking at my favorite spots (A.K.A. Kingscotte Gardens and the Terman Fountain), taking pictures of flowers on my way to class, working in my research lab at Stanford Medicine, and even occasionally shooting some arrows in the Archery Field. Wherever you find me, know that I’ll be there for you!

Just a year ago, I was in your shoes, coming all the way from Argentina on my own, without knowing what to expect. You’ll soon start discovering everything Stanford has for you, but here’s a little spoiler: it’s a unique and exciting ride. You’ll meet incredible people from across the country (and the world!), explore classes in subjects you may have never imagined, get lost in late-night conversations, join student groups and traditions that will surprise you, cheer at campus events, and find hidden corners of campus that feel like your own. Along the way, you’ll create long-lasting memories and connections that will shape your time here and beyond.

As a first-generation, low-income student, I know the challenges that can come with attending a university like Stanford, and I understand if everything I just described might not feel possible for you. But I have also experienced firsthand how much support we receive from different communities on campus, starting from NSO and continuing throughout our Stanford journey. For me, one of the most meaningful spaces has been El Centro.

As an international student, culture shock was inevitable, but from El Festival during NSO to the biweekly Friday cafecitos and our Sunday study nights, I found my people and a place that warmed my heart and truly felt like home. El Centro is a space where I can be my full self without needing to explain or translate who I am. Through every event, casual conversation, and shared moment, I’ve learned how our stories, struggles, and dreams are deeply connected and how we are here to hacer la lucha together. Through their academic, cultural, and community-building programming, El Centro has supported my growth both academically and socially, and I’m beyond grateful. They have become my comunidad, and I hope you’ll give us the chance to become yours too.

But enough about me, I hope you come visit us at El Centro Chicano y Latino and create your own unique connection with the space and the wonderful people who make up our comunidad.

Can’t wait to meet you all at NSO!

## Meet Anjana - Women's Community Center Coordinator

Hi everyone!!

My name is Anjana (she/her), and I’m super excited to be on the student orientation committee for the Women’s Community Center (WCC). I can't wait to meet all of you at NSO and hear about your journeys so far. In the meantime, here's a little bit about myself:

*A snapshot of my memories at Stanford*

I’m a rising senior majoring in Bioengineering from Gainesville, Florida (go Gators!!). This is my second year working with the WCC and I’m excited to experience its history and traditions alongside you guys. In the time I’ve been involved with the WCC, I’ve come to love the warmth, coziness, and comfort of the WCC space (pictured below). It's my top study spot on campus - super underrated and a fantastic community space for advice and friendship. The WCC exists to facilitate growth and engagement for Stanford students around issues of gender, equity, identity, and justice. As the orientation coordinator I work to achieve this goal through amazing community events, some highlights from this past year include a traditional Matcha-making event, arts and crafts lunches, and many more!

*Women's Community Center*

Looking back to my first quarter at Stanford, I remember feeling both excited and overwhelmed. After Admit Weekend in the spring, I even shed some tears. While I knew there was so much to look forward to, I was also scared of all the changes. It felt like starting from scratch with friends, academic interests, and extracurriculars.

I imagine some of you might be feeling the same way, so I want to share some advice I wish I had as a freshman. Don’t force yourself to find a community; focus on being intentional and choosing the right ones for you. I found that the most rewarding communities were smaller-knit and required a medium level of commitment. These clubs typically met once or twice a week, allowing me to form close friendships without added stress. During your first few months, take time to reflect on what kind of communities you’re looking for (and it’s okay if you don’t know yet!). Whether it’s a high-commitment pre-academic club or a relaxed non-audition dance team, let yourself explore all the options and find what naturally fits into your life at Stanford.

Some of the most rewarding communities I’ve been part of at Stanford include The Bridge (24/7 student-run peer-counseling center), Stanford Asha for Education (which hosts events and raises money for educational non-profits in India), Stanford Basmati Raas (competitive co-ed Indian dance team), and of course, the WCC! I can’t wait to meet you all!

## Meet Myrka - Queer Student Resources Coordinator

Hiii welcome to Stanford, I’m excited to welcome you to campus and support you during your transition to college!!! My name is Myrka (she/they) and I am a student staff member at Queer Student Resources (QSR). I’m a current coterm student in Latin American Studies and majored in Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity and Sociology during my undergrad!

Thinking back to my time at NSO, I remember being nervous moving from Columbus, Ohio, to California and being away from my family. As a first-generation low-income Queer Indigenous Latina, I was worried I wouldn't find spaces on campus where I felt like I belonged. While there were some ups and downs, I was fortunate to find spaces on campus through QSR, Casa Zapata, co-ops, and the FLI community that have supported me and helped me flourish during my past four years. I got to explore all my identities thanks to those spaces, and I’m especially thankful to the Queer besties I’ve met at Stanford, as they’ve become my found family and I can’t imagine my time on campus without them <3

Stanford moves fast – but it's so important to take care of yourself and do what feels best for you! QSR is a space that values rest and self-compassion, which I have learned is essential in the fast-paced campus environment. Finding places where you flourish and are supported is so important as well, so please check out the community centers, student groups, and dorm spaces that nurture you and your communities back home :) I hope QSR can become one of those spaces for you, so please check out our amazing programming, study at the QSPOT, check out our library, use our various art supplies, get a snack between classes, or even take a nap on our couches–your presence is always welcome!!

## Meet Komi - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator

On that eleven hour and five minute flight from London Heathrow to San Francisco, eager to start afresh across the pond, I reflected on the trajectory of my life that had put me in this position. What sparked this was my umpteenth rewatch of *The Parent Trap* (to clarify, the remake) that situates Lindsay Lohan as twins, and their parents, between London, UK and Napa, California. How funny, I thought, that my life had ended up imitating this childhood classic of mine.

A year later, I was returning home: grateful for the friendships I’d made, dearly missing the ones I’d left behind, and carrying the vigour of someone who had just had the most exciting and transformative year of their life. I’m already quite the optimist, but my first year at Stanford has filled me with a compulsion to live well and simply do, in a way that I previously wouldn’t have expected.

The journey to this point was not always smooth sailing. There was stress, loneliness, and failure. Yet, I settled in quickly thanks to the remarkable people I had the grace to find myself surrounded by - I have always stood by the fact that the people in an environment make it or break it. Crothers Hall in the 2024-25 academic year happened to have the greatest RA team Stanford has ever seen (a widely accepted axiom in these parts), and the others in the dorm, as well as those I met by sheer chance, were just as brilliant.

More often than not I found myself saying yes to things that I might not have done otherwise. I’m glad I did. I look back fondly on when, during fall quarter, two of my friends and I thought up the great idea to walk to Half Moon Bay (a beach twenty miles from campus) after our MATH 61CM midterm ended at 9pm as a way to celebrate. Somehow, we strung together a motley group of thirteen (!), most of whom were strangers with each other, and assembled at The Axe and Palm (Stanford’s late night food spot) at midnight to make our way. We strolled through quaint neighbourhoods illuminated by neon green street lighting. We stargazed - observing a few shooting stars in the process. We jumped fences and treaded through pitch black woods. We even played literal Crossy Road on the motorway once the sun rose. One by one, we lost people to the harsh terrains. Alas, only four of us made it to the end (rest in peace, the others). At 10am, being shockingly sleep deprived, we contemplated the Pacific Ocean as its waves peacefully crashed onto the shore and smouldered into foam at our feet. Half asleep, we had breakfast at a diner, and then Ubered back to campus. It goes without saying that those people remain some of my dearest friends!

I’ve met friends in unexpected places. Anecdotally, your door’s name sign will likely have a “Ask me about:” section on it. I filled mine to the brim with every hobby, interest, and fact that I could think of. On day one of New Student Orientation, I made one of my best friends (I’m currently storing my stuff at his house this summer - not to say that’s his only purpose) because he read my sign and realised we had a lot in common. Who’s to say when we would’ve become close if that information wasn’t readily available! Of course, sharing hobbies is not the sole indicator of a strong friendship. One of my other best friends and I don’t have as much in common as far as pastimes go. Rather, we simply love each other’s company and see the world in similar ways. In fall quarter, a boy arrived late to my PWR section. “He looks familiar”, I thought, and he thought the same of me. Eventually, we realised that we’d met half a year prior at San Francisco’s airport. We have since taken seven classes together and have played lots of Brawl Stars in the math lounge.

I am an unabashed film buff and have been for my entire life. As such, I’ve spent nights at the gorgeous Stanford Theatre in downtown Palo Alto watching their excellent selection of classics, sometimes preceding it with a dinner at Bevri - a wonderful Georgian spot. I couldn’t go without mentioning the uncountable number of times I’ve gotten a matcha or hojicha latte at Maruwu Seicha, just nearby, and enjoyed it in the good company of friends. One of my favourite moments was biking to the Goodwill, a thrift store, in Mountain View and ending up hauling a large portrait of Marilyn Monroe for a twenty minute bike ride back (it was framed in the corridor for the remainder of the year). There is much to do in this dense, albeit expensive, part of California. It feels so abundant; you will hopefully never be bored for too long.

I will say, there is a particular culture at Stanford about doing things outside of class. By all means, I think the ambition of the people here is unparalleled anywhere in the world, and that is a good thing. It’s infectious. However, there is still much value to be found in the classes available at Stanford. Perhaps the best class I took this year was COLLEGE 102: Citizenship in the 21st Century, a mandatory, general education seminar. I had the privilege to take it with Dan Edelstein, the extraordinary man who runs the COLLEGE program, alongside a group of students who were very much into the premise of sitting down and discussing civics twice a week. Our discussions were on all-encompassing topics regarding functioning as a human in society, and the students comprised a full spectrum of political beliefs. At the beginning of winter quarter, I never would’ve imagined that I’d look forward to the class so much, but it ended up being the class in which I believe I learned the most this year. The other side of the coin is that Stanford has a mouth-watering number of opportunities available to you outside of class, that you absolutely ought to look out for and apply to. On Stanford’s dime, I was (separately) able to travel to Uzbekistan and China with incredible groups of people and have the time of my life. There is plenty to take advantage of here!

I think entering Stanford with optimism and an eagerness to enrich your lived experience is the best way to go through it. Whether you have no plan or an extremely detailed one, things will work out. I’m sure of it.

## Meet Tesvara - Asian American Activities Center Coordinator

As I counted down the days until my own NSO two years back, a mix of fear and excitement sent tingles through my fingers and toes. My suitcase was packed with items from New York, ready to come with me for the adventure ahead. Looking back these past two years, I've had a blast, but also grown and matured significantly. In freshman year, I forged deep friendships, pulled all-nighters working on psets in Huang, learned to skateboard, and weathered some tough days. But I also scootered around campus delivering cookies to my friends, took a selfie with the president of Indonesia, learned to play the Guzheng, and amassed 22,000 new photos. Sophomore year was even more enlightening. Through the A3C's AIM mentorship program, I met two incredible mentors—an anesthesiologist at Stanford Medicine and a director at the Doerr School of Sustainability—who taught me invaluable lessons about their careers. I also flew to Turkey with my AASib little Cynthia Wang for the Catstanbul Blockchain Crypto Conference, and now we're both leaders of Stanford Blockchain Club together. Truly serendipitous! These pivotal experiences have profoundly shaped the person I am today, and I am excited for all your journeys at the same wonderful place we are fortunate to attend.

With that, welcome to Stanford! My name is Tesvara, and I am a third-year computer science major. This year, Sonnet and I are honored to be your student orientation committee for the Asian American Activities Center! I met Sonnet this past year as room neighbors in the Ng House and I guarantee you she is the funniest, realest, and best neighbor one can ask for, and I am so excited for all the festivities we have in store for you all.

At Stanford, you'll discover countless avenues to engage with the campus community through the Asian American Activities Center (A3C). The A3C offers everything from the cozy couchroom to study or hang out, to Asian American Sib (AASib) which pairs you with upperclassmen mentors and a "family" throughout your journey. You can join VSOs like AASA, ISA, or VSA, take cultural performance classes from Chang Le Dance to Gu Zheng, apply to become a Frosh intern, live in Okada (the Asian American ethnic theme dorm), and look forward to the AIM mentorship program sophomore year. From supporting friends' Vietnamese dance performances to selling Banh Mi during Night Market, I've deepened my appreciation for diversity through these spaces.

We are here to help in all ways we can, from adjusting to college life, looking for academic advice, or finding your community, Sonnet and I are here to support you. I believe that the best way to experience Stanford is to engage fully—to join clubs, attend events, and not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You might just find a passion you never knew you had or meet someone who could be your future bridesmaid!

This upcoming year is going to be filled with challenges and triumphs, late-night study sessions, and spontaneous adventures. Remember to take it all in! We are so fortunate to be a part of a community where we can discover new interests, engage in meaningful conversations, and develop skills that will carry us through life.

So, welcome to Stanford! I am so excited to be a part of the first team at Stanford to welcome you. Let me know if there is anything you need, for real. Cheers!

## Meet Austin - Black Community Services Center Coordinator

Hey y’all, welcome to Stanford!

I’m Austin (he/him/his), a member of one the student orientation committees, and a rising senior majoring in Symbolic Systems on the computer music track. This fall I will also be working at the Black Community Services Center (BCSC) and I could not be more excited to help welcome you into our vibrant campus community.

I grew up in South Central Los Angeles, CA, and now live in Las Vegas, NV. Coming from predominantly Black and Brown spaces, I was eager to meet people from across the African diaspora and I have been fortunate to do exactly that at Stanford. I have been a proud member of both Enchanted Broccoli Forest (EBF), one of the longest running co-ops on campus, and Ujamaa, a stellar ethnic theme dorm celebrating the African diaspora since 1970.

My favorite NSO memory was gathering with my Uj dormmates at Frost Amphitheater to practice chants before our very first meet-up. It was a moment of pride, community, and pure joy. Around the same time I stumbled into another major part of my Stanford experience: Stanford Concert Network (SCN), best known for putting on Frost Fest (‘25 ft. Doechii!). Now I co-direct the organization alongside an incredible team of more than 30 undergrads, bringing music and live events to campus year round.

I know the transition to Stanford can feel like a whirlwind, but spaces like the BCSC are here to ground you. You will find mentorship, academic resources, social events, and connections that can last a lifetime. I hope you stop by, meet the people, and start building your own community here.

## Meet Aurelia - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator

Hello, selamat datang di Stanford! (Welcome to Stanford!) You’ve made it—to the place where you’ll swiftly find the fastest path to bike across the hilly terrain of campus, hunt for dining hall specials with your friends, and find a second family. As the sun illuminates Hoover Tower and paints Stanford’s 11 fountains a golden hue, accompanying your commute to class, you’ll quickly realize that Stanford is the place to be. Best campus across the bay, or even the nation, I would say :).

Sparkling stars decorated my window-seat view for the 13,554 km flight over from my home city of Surabaya, Indonesia, to Stanford. Moving away for college was both exciting—but also beyond terrifying. I was the first student from my school to be admitted to Stanford, and no one from my city–or even province—had been admitted in years (or maybe, ever) as an undergraduate student. Simply stated, I knew no one, and transitioning from a close-knit community where everyone is connected to a space with thousands of strangers in a foreign land upholding an entirely different culture, was daunting. For many international students, you might be feeling the same thing, and that’s completely normal. Trust me, I felt the same way. How was I supposed to make friends, how was I supposed to feel comfortable, how am I supposed to turn this 3,310 hectare-space into my home?

Still, just a year later, I find myself staring at a digital photo-frame my Stanford friends generously gifted for my birthday this August, pre-loaded with snapshots of my freshman year: laughing while (accidentally) burning pasta for a 12-person meal during a Tahoe trip, me hugging my first ever snowball, carrying flowers for graduating seniors turned-older siblings, silly faces during study nights, enjoying my first concert, hiking trips, galas, and game days. I realized I found a family–individuals who would genuinely listen to my random hour long-rants, lend a shoulder for me to cry on, and be the first (and loudest) in cheering me on. Surprisingly, one of my favorite Stanford stories is the time in the fall quarter of my freshman year when I fell off my bike in front of the medical school onto straight gravel, injuring my knee to the point where the scar is still visible today. Not because I like falling (I don’t, I hope to never repeat it again), but because of how my friends were so quick to help. Knowing me for less than a month, my friends ran from their class at the engineering quad to check on me in Vaden—our student clinic, staying by my side through the inevitable tetanus shot, listening intently to care instructions as if it were their own knee that is now unrecognizable, and offering to buy chicken soup at Trader Joe’s (I’m still not sure how that helps with a scraped knee, but hey, it’s the thought that counts). Two oceans apart and 14 hours behind my parents, I arrived at my safe haven. My unfortunate bike accident became an epitome of the kindness and genuine care that you’ll find amongst the people here.

*My first snow encounter at Tahoe-Stanford club trip*

With that said, my name is Aurelia (call me Aurel)! I’m thrilled to be one of your International Student Orientation Coordinators this year, representing the beautiful region of Southeast Asia. I’m a sophomore studying International Relations and minoring in Data Science, with a primary focus in comparative international governance and a secondary focus in international security. As an aspiring academic, I’m serving as a Senior Editor in the Stanford Journal of International Affairs, work as part of Gen. H.R. McMaster’s team in the Hoover Institution, and spent my summer as a research assistant in Stanford’s Center for Democracy, Development, and Rule of Law. Though it may seem that I had everything figured out–trust me, I didn’t. I spent my first two quarters dabbling in different interests–Neuroscience, Sociology, Education—before realizing that IR was my intended discipline. For those still unsure about your major, don’t worry! You have time, and use it to explore. Stanford allows you to do both humanities and sciences—such as me combining IR and data science—to truly find the right combo for you.

*My friends and I at the* La Soiree De Cantor *event*

Besides academics, I’m also a SIB mentor at Bechtel for this upcoming academic year and the co-president of Stanford’s Indonesian Student Association. In these occasions, my main priority is always finding the best food and having the most fun: international song karaoke nights, endless midnight boardgame nights, and having Southeast Asian food catered to cure homesickness. I remembered how intimidating and isolating it can feel to live so far away from home, and I want to let you know that I’m always here for you!

*Meeting Boston Mayor Michelle Wu with Stanford Alternative Spring Break*

I also credit Stanford for some of my best travel experiences: Studying educational inequality in Boston and meeting mayor Michelle Wu, recreating the iconic La La Land poster after a weekend spent in LAMUN with Stanford incredible MUN team (check out Society of International Affairs at Stanford!), hiking to the top of Nevada Falls at Yosemite, running away to a Jollibee’s in Pacifica, and more! For any theatre kids out there, I’d recommend Gaieties. This is our one chance to crush Berkeley in the big game, so take it! I never thought I would travel so much as a low-income international student on a full scholarship, but Stanford made it possible for me to explore the U.S.

*Flight to LA with Stanford MUN Team*

*Yosemite Dorm Trip*

This upcoming year won’t all be sunshine and rainbows, but just know that there are always people in your corner. People to support you and help you stand back up, to truly guide you in finding your footing. Stanford is just your launchpad, and I feel incredibly lucky to be included in your journey.

Beyond all the rankings and headlines your family is (proudly) raving about, Stanford is home. I’m utterly excited and honored to be part of the first of those welcoming you here.

## Meet Esmeralda - FLI Student Success Center Coordinator

Hi all,

Welcome to the Farm! I am Esmeralda (she/her/ella), part of the student orientation committee First-Generation and/or Low Income Student Success Center (FLISSC). David and I are so excited to meet you all and help make Stanford your home away from home.

I am a Junior studying Human Biology with a concentration in Biomolecular, Genetic, and Psychological Approaches to Development and Disease on the premedical track. I was born and raised in the sunny beaches and waves of San Diego County, specifically in a predominantly Latine community of Escondido, CA. I vividly remember the whirlwind of emotions I was feeling leading up to my first year at Stanford. To put it simply: I was petrified.

Back home, I was seen as an overachiever, but at Stanford, I worried I’d just be average among the sea of outstanding students. Coming from a low-income background and an under-resourced high school, I doubted my ability to handle the academic rigor. Imposter syndrome had already nestled itself deep into my consciousness even before NSO. On top of that, I felt guilty leaving my parents and siblings behind. As the eldest daughter, I wore many hats and carried numerous responsibilities back at home, and it felt strange to suddenly set them down to attend a prestigious institution with more wealth and opportunity than I could have imagined.

The transition can be overwhelming. Change is not easy – but it gets better with time. I was fortunate enough to participate in the Leland Scholars Program (LSP) the summer before my first year, and it was truly a blessing in disguise. LSP was a former Stanford summer program that helped incoming students from underserved backgrounds with the transition to college - an experience similar to what some of you have been a part of with the Summer Bridge Program! I met so many people, some of whom are my closest friends to this day, who shared similar fears, excitements, and dreams. Beyond LSP, what has continuously kept me grounded over the past 2 years has been the FLISSC.

FLISSC has many facets of support for FLI students of all identities and walks of life, making it a place where diverse experiences are valued and celebrated. Whether through study nights, workshops, or our fun FLI Friday events, FLISSC is a community where you can feel seen, supported, and validated. It’s not just a center but a haven of belonging.

We can’t wait to welcome you into this community! Know that you are not alone in your transition, and that the FLISSC team is here to uplift and walk beside you. See you all soon!

## Meet Natalie - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator

Hello new frosh and transfers!!

Welcome to Stanford! A big congratulations to you all for achieving such a milestone and in case it hasn’t hit you yet, you did it!

My name is Natalie, a rising sophomore from Nairobi, Kenya. I’m currently exploring Math and Computer Science as majors but I still have my options open.

The best way to describe my Stanford journey so far would be, quite difficult yet utterly fulfilling. When I got accepted, it felt extremely surreal and the thought of having to wait for a whole 8 months before I could finally come on campus was killing me!! But trust me, about a month before ISO, the butterflies started kicking in. The thought of leaving home (9600 miles away to be precise), every single thing I knew and held dear, to come to this foreign place was extremely scary. However, my first week here was actually quite nice, and that set up the foundation for my freshman year. I met my first friend at the NSO convocation, an international student like myself from Peru, and we’ve been close ever since. I lived at Castańo house and got to meet such amazing people who also later became part of my circle. My favorite dorm memories would probably be the trip to Disneyland, going on a mini cruise ship, and going to our fun dorm weekend activities hosted by RAs (there’s lots of crafting, movies, baking, and more)! By virtue of my home being so far away, I’ve had to stay on campus for some of the breaks but that didn’t mean I’d be isolated. I enjoyed hosting a sleepover during Thanksgiving break, and for the first time cooking meals together with friends. During spring break, I explored Palo Alto, went window shopping, and savored delicious Indian food from Zareens, haha. So even though I didn’t get to go home, it felt rewarding being surrounded by people I care about, and you’ll soon realize that your Stanford experience is defined by no one else but yourself.

Now, let’s dive into the somewhat sour part:| For international students, you’ll definitely meet some rocky paths. Could be you’re from a country that doesn’t celebrate Halloween, or the sun always sets at 6.30pm all year in your country, or the academic curriculum isn’t as rigorous, don’t get me started on Daylight Saving Time, or having to switch from Celsius to Fahrenheit. Bottom line, you’ll definitely feel the culture shocks, but you’ll gradually adapt. And you might find that through such challenges, you could form connections and build community. One of my most memorable but also most brutal moments when it comes to academic rigor, was walking into the CoDa building to work on an assignment with friends when the sun was still up, and leaving hours later when the sun was rising. As exhausting as that was, we played music, debated on a COLLEGE topic, popped some popcorn, and most importantly finished the assignment lol. Writing this makes me realize why it took us that long to finish it 😅. My point is, such moments have definitely been shaping my relationships at Stanford.

I’m part of the Shaku dance team (aka the best afrobeats dance club in the bay!!!) and I got a huge sense of community from the team. Dancers would know that practice can be hectic, messy with disagreements, but ultimately teamwork is what holds everyone together. A standout memory for me was performing at the Encounter Culture hosted by DV8 (another cool dance club by the way), and hosting our very first Shaku showcase. One year in and I absolutely love my team down. I’m also part of the Stanford African Students Association (SASA) board and recently joined the East African Stanford Students Association (EASSA) board.

Through uniquely different ways, I’m forging my Stanford path, fitting into different communities and building my own. From enjoying dinners with others at Stern dining hall, to biking slowly to our dorms in the evening as we admire the sunset, to collaborating on assignments, having coffee chats with professors, or spending hours at LaIR. Whatever the dynamic, I’ve always felt seen at Stanford and I’m sure you will too.

Once again, hearty congratulations and welcome to The Farm!!

## Meet Yuliana - Queer Student Resources Coordinator

Hiiii welcome to our community! ☆✦✩ I am so excited to see you grow and flourish as you explore who you are and who you are becoming. Some initial words of wisdom: this transition might not be the easiest, but it is within this time of change that you will learn to become your fullest self.

I’m Yuliana / Yuli (they/any), a current student staff at Queer Student Resources (QSR). I’ll be one of the faces welcoming you to Stanford as you settle in and adjust to your new home. A little bit about me – I am currently a co-term student in the civil engineering department, getting my masters in sustainable design & construction. Feel free to connect with me for support, friendship, or anything else:)

Home for me is in the smallish bordertown of Somerton, Arizona. I come to Stanford repping my Queer, Latine, Fronterizx communities who are making waves in academia. My time here has been very complicated for me. I thought I was going to become a lawyer when I first started at Stanford, but I have made a lot of twists, turns, and swirls & look where I am now! Despite all of that change, one thing remains true: my love for my neighbors, my community. It can be challenging to stay afloat in such a demanding space like a university, especially being Queer and having many intersecting identities. However, there is always a bright side! Connection with my Queer + Trans peers has been a precious part of my time at Stanford. These relationships have allowed me to connect with the broader Bay Area community and participate in work that cares for people like me and those back home.

❥❥❥❥❥❥❤︎

What I really want to emphasize to you here is that there is so much power and magic in your being. Pursuing education is such a huge step in your story and I hope you hold that as something very special. There is so much time and space for you to grow and explore if you are open to it.

So, with that I invite you to get to know yourself, where you are, who you are around. Thank you for your energy in getting to know me. I am super looking forward to getting to know you! Again, welcome and good luck!

## Meet David - FLI Student Success Center Coordinator

*A glimpse into my friendships, community, and growth at Stanford*

Hey Frosh and Transfers! Welcome to Stanford — and congratulations! My name is David, and I’m a rising Senior majoring in Urban Studies while also pursuing a coterminal master’s in Public Policy. I was born and raised in Stockton, California, and one day I hope to return home to serve in local elected office, working to build the kind of world we all deserve. Where that journey takes me beyond that — we’ll see!

This year, I’m honored to serve on the student orientation committee for the First-Generation and/or Low-Income (FLI) Student Success Center (FLISSC). I am forever grateful for the FLI @ Stanford community and all they have done for me, and I welcome you all to the FLamily with open arms. This year, I am serving as Chair of the Associated Students of Stanford University’s (ASSU) Undergraduate Senate (UGS) and as Historian & Webmaster for our campus’s Cambodian Student Association (CamSA). In addition, I serve as one of the many student staff members at the First-Generation and/or Low-Income Student Success Center (FLISSC).

I’m so excited for all 1,950 of you to join us this fall! At Stanford, you’ll not only receive an incredible education but also meet people from all around the world. Along the way, you’ll build friendships and connections with those who share your background and with those who don’t. Cherish these relationships — they’ll become an essential part of your frosh year and will continue to shape your journey long after.

### Risk, Rejection, and Resilience

Of all these opportunities, I encourage you to embrace them fully — even the ones that come with the possibility of rejection or redirection. Trust me, your frosh year will be filled with fun. I’ve been there — from the parties at SNU on the Row to concerts at Frost, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in Stanford’s unique culture and social life. But I’ve also learned that some of the most meaningful growth comes not just from the highlights, but from navigating the more challenging moments of loss and grief — the not-so-fun parts that teach you resilience and depth.

For me, that lesson became real during my frosh year. Entering spring quarter (the best quarter of the year), I took the risk of running for Sophomore Class President with a slate of friends. Running was a leap of faith. I knew I had to be okay with the possibility of losing, but the idea of failure still scared me. Even so, I decided to run because I knew the experience itself would be worth it.

When election day came around, I was immensely proud of the campaign my slate and I had organized. Throughout the process, I learned a great deal about myself and even more about the people I hoped to represent. It felt larger than life — putting myself out there while pouring my heart and soul into an election I cared deeply about. It remains one of my favorite moments at Stanford, a time when I felt on top of the world, knowing so many people believed in our vision.

Despite our best efforts, we fell short by just nine votes. The loss I had been afraid of became a reality. Processing the grief of losing something I had poured countless hours into was not easy. I leaned on my community for support, but I also had to do the more complex work of validating myself — reminding myself that a single election didn’t define who I was or what I could become.

As I wrapped up my first year, I realized that without this experience of running, I wouldn’t have been able to put myself out there for my peers or meet so many new people. I found a community that supported me through thick and thin, caring for me when I felt like I didn’t belong at Stanford. It was beautiful. Despite my loss, I had never felt so connected to my campus and the people I shared it with. Looking back, I see that this story has become one of the most valuable parts of my frosh year — shaping how I approached the next three years with gratitude and purpose.

### Leading Authentically and Paying It Forward

That moment of rejection became one of the most important lessons I’ve learned at Stanford. It reminded me that I was more than the setbacks I faced, and that leadership is just as much about how you get back up as it is about winning. I didn’t give up on being involved in student government. The following year, I took another chance and ran for a position in the Undergraduate Senate. This time, I carried with me the lessons I had learned — to listen more deeply, to organize more intentionally, and to lead with honesty about both my strengths and my shortcomings. I also leaned into my identity as a first-generation, low-income student, making it central to my platform and the way I approached leadership. I wanted to ensure that students like me — who often wonder if their voices matter in spaces of power — knew that they were being represented.

Winning a seat in the Senate was not just a personal victory — it was a reminder that perseverance pays off and that one loss does not close the door to future opportunities. It also showed me the power of leading authentically: by bringing my whole self, including my FLI experiences at Stanford, into student government, I could help shift the way our institutions respond to the needs of our most marginalized communities.

*Campaign moments that meant the world — friends, classmates, and community standing with me during my second run for Senate.*

Once in the Senate, I dedicated myself to doing the work. I showed up for our student body by managing a $6 million budget, ensuring that funding was equitably distributed across more than 600 student groups. I also fought to amplify FLI voices, support student communities of color, and make campus resources more accessible. Over time, my peers came to see me not just as someone who wanted to serve, but as someone they could trust to deliver on the promises I made — as someone who had their back. That trust has carried me forward — from my first campaign loss to my election as Chair of the Undergraduate Senate. Today, I have the privilege of advocating for students and uplifting the very voices I once feared wouldn’t be heard at a place like Stanford.

My advice to you is this: enter college with a willingness to take risks and to embrace the sometimes-scary possibility of rejection. Stanford — and college in general — will offer you countless opportunities, and these four years are far too short to hold yourself back out of fear. Whether it’s asking someone out, running for a position, or applying for that internship — go for it. And when challenges come, lean on the community you build here, and remember that your worth will always extend beyond any single outcome, grade, or decision. Even if things don’t unfold the way you planned, you may find yourself reflecting on those experiences and sharing them with the next class of Frosh — hoping they’ll take the same leap.

## Meet Farah - Markaz Resource Center Coordinator

Hello everyone! Welcome to Stanford!! My name is Farah, I’m a first generation Egyptian- American and I come from Queens, New York. I’m a Frosh Coordinator and the student orientation committee for the Markaz this year! I was admitted to Stanford through the Questbridge scholars program, and I am a Pre-law Public Policy major, with a concentration in law and the legal system. It is here that I’ve learned to nurture my values, rely on community, and show up fully and wholeheartedly in the spaces I value most. In my free time, I sing and make poor attempts at playing guitar. I’ve started reading again and am currently getting lost in A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (I know I know I should’ve read it years ago).

It wasn’t until I read my admissions file that I remembered I was admitted for a reason. For as long as I can remember, I’ve known that my purpose in this life is to leave the world in better shape than I found it. When I feel lost, I center myself back on this purpose. If being at Stanford has shown me anything, it’s the immense privilege of learning in such an enriching environment at such a young age. I know that my responsibility in the limited time I have here is to learn as much as I can, and use it for as much good as I can. And though I believe this underlying purpose has always existed for me, it hasn’t always been easy.

### **Lesson #1: Grace and gratitude.**

TLDR: College is hard. You’re in a new environment, surrounded by new people, often away from home for the first time. It can feel like everyone else already has their friends, majors, career paths, and even retirement accounts sorted out. The truth? No one really has it figured out. Give yourself grace. Extend that grace to others. And be grateful for the challenges placed in front of you: they’re not accidents. I believe struggles come to us because we are equipped to handle them. Whenever I read headlines of children yearning for education, I think back to my own freshman-year frustrations and gain perspective. Lead with compassion for yourself and for others. Recognize the privilege of being able to wrestle with self-discovery rather than survival. Try your best, trust the process, and life will reward you with countless joys.

### **Lesson #2: Invest your time with intention.**

Spend your energy on the people, experiences, and pursuits that matter most to you, and give yourself patience as you discover what those are. Work hard at your classes, go to the quirky club meetings (I’m still on the juggling club mailing list), attend a speaker series you’d never otherwise encounter, and remember: knowledge is always within reach.

You are surrounded by some of the brightest minds on earth. Every question you’ve ever wondered has been asked by someone, somewhere! So keep asking, keep wondering, and keep imagining a better world, because it is possible.

### **Lesson #3: Build your community.**

If there’s one thing I’ve learned at Stanford, it’s that family and community come from effort. Inconvenience is not a reason to stay home. Hike across campus for that 1:30 PM lecture at that weird temperature where it’s too cold for a shirt and too hot for a hoodie. Spend hours in your dorm alcove talking about nonsense, and ask for your village when life feels heavy. Pick your friends up from the airport, call your mom, bring napkins and utensils for the table at dinner. Be there for your people, and they will be there for you. My home began in room 317 in Cedro and will end with room 304 at the Well House. My closest friends came into my life at different points, each nurturing me in ways I cannot put into words—and when I think about leaving Stanford, they are the ones who make it so hard.

### **Nonsense**

Now onto the fun stuff! I’ve taken a plethora of classes here at Stanford, ranging from Arabic Calligraphy to the Philosophy of Law to Applied Econometrics. You really can learn ANYTHING here! In my free time I love music, singing, and makeup. My favorite part of my day is the morning 20 minutes I spend doing my makeup, listening to the birds outside my window, and covering my legs with a blanket. I have made it to breakfast less than 10 times in my 3 years here, so yogurt + granola from dinner in tupperware have been my best friends. Philz is my favorite coffee spot in the bay (potentially the universe) and my order has been the same for years: a medium Philtered Soul, sweet and creamy with light ice. Top food hyperfixations (currently): Onigilly, Sourdough and Co., and Salt and Straw’s Chocolate Gooey Brownie. I’m a jewelry connoisseur and just like my mom, you can usually hear me coming before you see me. I wear my mother’s bangles on my wrists and a picture of my parents on my necklace, each and every day. My favorite spot on campus is Kingscote Garden —and it took me an embarrassingly long time to finally give up the plastic phone wallet. I’ve been slapped by a shaving cream pie twice in my life and I’ve attached proof of one of them.

### **Finally a senior**

My freshman year was full of ups and downs, but I still smile every time my phone brings up a photo from that time. I’ve struggled through classes and, at the same time, learned more than I ever thought possible. Some of the hardest nights were also the funniest—the side cramps at 3 AM on a Tuesday when you and your friends realized you have three assignments due Wednesday and all you can really do is laugh and sleep. Those are the moments I’m grateful I captured. I have 50,890 photos on my phone (yes, really), and not once have I regretted taking them. Perfection doesn’t matter—it’s what you do with your missteps that counts.

### **And so I leave you with the wise words of 15 year old Farah:**

hi farah! its you here from 2019. how are you doing? call mom and dad and tell them you love them. then call sarah and aly too (my siblings). I hope you've gone to your dream college. was it stanford? it sure is now. What did you end up majoring in? i hope you've made friendships that will last a lifetime. I hope you remember that the world is a beautiful place, that it's worth it, and that everything will turn out okay.

I can now confidently say, everything has turned out okay. Welcome to Stanford!!

### Meet Maya - Black Community Services Center Coordinator

Heyyy! My name is Maya and I am a rising sophomore here at Stanford! I  am planning to major in Psych and Urban Studies with a concentration in Urban Education. I have a passion for all things social and racial justice, and Stanford has given me multiple opportunities to explore  those passions. I am a proud resident of Ujamaa (aka Uj), the Black diaspora-themed dorm. I lived in Uj my freshman year, and immediately found my second family there. I’ll be living in Uj again this year so if you see me make sure to say heyyy! At Stanford I am a high school tutor, staff member at the Black Community Services Center and a college advisor for first gen/low-income students.

Words cannot describe how excited I am for you. You should be so so so proud of yourself. While college is fun and exciting, there will no doubt be some difficult times. My advice for you is to be patient with  yourself. It is okay to make mistakes. Allow yourself to learn from those  mistakes and grow. Stanford is a place for growth, exploration and  opportunities. Take advantage of ALLLLLL that this university has to  offer. Good luck  this year. You got this!! ;)

## Meet Ja'ziah - Black Community Services Center Coordinator

I am extremely excited to welcome you to your new home as a member of one the student orientation committees!!!!! I am Ja'Ziah, a pre-law rising junior studying Design. I am the oldest of seven children, love playing volleyball, and I'm a Jersey girl. I also really enjoy trying cuisines outside of my African American culture.

Many days I wake up still surprised that I go to Stanford. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to go to college, but I never had a college that I dreamed of attending. My senior year, right when college applications season began, one of my English teachers told me about Stanford and I just knew it was a place I had to be. So I applied early action, not too confident that I would get in, and then I got the results. And the confetti fell down my screen. And in that moment, I realized I was capable of doing anything I put my mind to.

Freshman year felt like a dream every day. It was just so amazing, even when things weren't going exactly how I wanted them to go. I lived in Ujamaa, and it made it very easy for me to transition from coming to a predominantly black high school. I also took lots of random classes across different majors to be able to meet different professors and try to understand what major I wanted to do, and I think I've benefited a lot from doing that so early on in my Stanford career. Even with all the great things happening my freshman year, I still managed to dislocate my knee for a third time and lock myself out of my dorm at least five times just in spring quarter alone.

Sophomore year was very different. It was one of the most mentally challenging years of my life, but it was also full of small joys that remind me why I’m here. I took a road trip with close friends to Hollywood, also left the country for the first time with them, found purpose in printmaking at the Community Print Shop, and even studied abroad in Jamaica where I made forever friendships. Those moments, even when life left heavy, showed me struggle, joy and growth can all exist alongside each other.

My time at Stanford so far has taught me I didn't need to have everything figured out. The people I’ve met along the way have made even my lowest moments (like hopping around campus on one leg) the best memories of my life.

So as you prepare for your journey to Stanford, I want you to also remember that you're just figuring things out too. You don't have to have your entire life mapped out before you get here. Allow yourself to explore, discover, stumble and grow, you just might be amazed to see what you find out.

## Meet Jennifer - Bechtel International Center (ISO) Coordinator

First off, to incoming frosh and transfers who are reading this - welcome to Stanford! Get excited for some of the mildest summer weathers in the Northern Hemisphere, a vast, bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly campus, and a team of International Student Orientation Coordinators who are more than excited to meet you all.

I am Yizhen “Jennifer”, a rising senior majoring in Biology and an international student from Shanghai, China. Coming to Stanford with an eagerness to learn and make a difference but barely any idea of what I should study or do to achieve that, my first few years at Stanford were filled with trial-and-errors as I explored all my possibilities.

In this process, I grew to appreciate the lasting impact of the International Student Orientation on me - friends I made in my first week on campus continue to support me until today, reminders for me to appreciate life in the busiest of my days and look outside the box for new experiences. Before the overwhelming start of our first academic year at Stanford, sharing the orientation experience with peers facing similar challenges and uncertainties helped develop lasting bonds.

The four-day orientation itself also produced memories I continue to cherish. I remember the welcoming warmth of the Lake Lag bonfire when I was taught how to roast a marshmallow for the first time, the night we dragged a speaker across campus as we headed back to our dorms, trying to sing along to songs in a dozen languages, and the grounding presence of the ISOCs who led us through the events with incredible patience and care.

I’d be lying if I say that my first days at Stanford were all fun and games - getting off the plane feeling like someone hurled me across the Pacific, mentally chiding myself for overpacking as I dragged my luggage across campus, and constantly fighting a losing battle against jet-lag were no joke. However, the dichotomy of the incoming student experience entails not just the tiredness and stress from travel and move-in, but also the overwhelming excitement of starting college life, meeting fellow students and exploring Stanford. ISO is what meets you at this intersection, and whether you feel like you are more inclined toward the positive latter, or still recovering from the strenuous former, you are in safe hands. Whether you are looking to make your first friends, find peers with similar academic and extracurricular interests, hoping to learn more about what it’s like to be an international student at Stanford, or just in for the fun, you will not leave ISO disappointed.

The ISO is unique in that the international student community is inherently diverse in cultural backgrounds, living experiences, values and beliefs. I believe that this is precisely the charm of this experience - sharing time and memories with your ISO cohort is like finding an intersection with someone whose past was a parallel line from yours, and once your lives intertwine, you will look back with amazement at how it happened.

## Meet Sonnet - Asian American Activities Center Coordinator

Hello frosh and transfers! I am incredibly excited to be welcoming you to Stanford and excited to see your faces on campus very soon! I’m Sonnet, a rising junior studying computer science. On campus, you’ll most likely find me at my dorm Ng House talking to my friends, at the Stanford Daily building editing an article, or at Stanford Medicine - looking for snacks at my research lab. Wherever I am, know that I’m here for you, and so excited for you to be here!

I am beyond grateful to be part of the student orientation committee for the Asian American Activities Center, along with the amazing and incredible Tesvara, to acclimate you to Stanford and our vibrant community. The A3C, or Asian American Activities Center, has done a lot for me during my time here, from giving me an AASib fam (a program where the A3C matches upper and lower classmen), to allowing me to create an AASib family of my own the next year. It’s taught me about the diversity and beauty of what it means to be Asian American, with mixers and social nights, and given me the chance to be mentored by someone older through the AIM mentorship program for sophomores. While I had grown up surrounded by a fair number of Asian people, I had never engaged in the community before, and had the chance to grow and learn so much in it. I hope that at Stanford, you all get a chance to plug into this community and experience more about what this identity means to you and the people around you.

When I think back to my NSO, I remember being incredibly excited about what Stanford would hold, but also filled with questions. I didn’t know who my roommate would be, it was my first time being on the west coast (minus Admit Weekend) and I hadn’t really tried to connect with anyone beforehand, so I felt like I didn’t know what to expect. Through all of this, I remember being comforted thinking about all the amazing ways that I knew Stanford would teach and grow me, from the SLE (structure liberal education) living and learning community, the community centers and opportunities for exploring my identity, to the support Stanford had for all of my interests, ranging from running outside to writing in the school newspaper, something that I had never done before.

Throughout NSO and my first few days, I met people and introduced myself, had to re-meet people and re-introduce myself, and ran around trying to meet even more people - literally. I remember waking up for a morning run that we had planned carefully at dinner the night before. We decided to go to CVS (not really sure why - maybe one of us needed something?), only to find that it was closed. We then ran back to the Stanford Shopping Center, then to GovCo for continental breakfast.  I also vividly remember the first time everyone in SLE got together to introduce ourselves to each other, meeting my future classmates and dormmates but also their parents. I also remember squinting to find my AASib family during the big reveal event during week one, and excitedly sitting down with them when I did. The people that I went on the run with, some I never saw again, and some I never talked to really much after freshman year. But some of the people I met during SLE are still some of my closest friends! As for my AASib fam, they’ve been a group that’s been consistent throughout my time at Stanford, though also on and off. They still have to remind me to show up for all the family gatherings!

NSO is a lot all at once. It can be overwhelming, overstimulating and you might find yourself overexerted, wanting to run between a bunch of events and opportunities to meet people. Some things stick, some things don’t. No matter what you do, remember that your friends, involvement, and fun at Stanford won’t be defined by the first few days and what you were able to squeeze onto your plate. It’s defined continuously by the choices you make everyday, so don’t stress yourself out if one NSO day turns into something less than ideal!

Once again, welcome to Stanford! I cannot wait to see what Stanford has in store for you, and what then, you’ll have in store for the rest of the world!

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