By Fatimata Ndiaye & Halie Best

In this week's, Where in the World is Miami Wednesday, we meet Shaoqing "Bella" Cui, an international student from Shenzhen, China — a junior majoring in Finance in the Farmer School of Business.

She first learned of Miami University through a friend who is a student here. After doing more research, seeing the beautiful campus and the quintessential college town, she decided to apply. Bella attributes this to being one of her best decisions in life thus far. She is thriving at Miami and enjoys attending a typical American unviersity. 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Shaoqing Cui and my English name is Bella, and I come from Shenzhen, China. I'm currently a junior at Miami University and am majoring in Finance in the Farmer School of Business. Almost all of my family members are in the business industry, which is why I chose Finance as my major.

How did you get to know about Miami University and what made you choose it?

Before I came to Miami, one of my friends applied to this university and he said it is a good place to study because of it's location in a peaceful town. So, I did a lot of research online and saw many beautiful pictures of this university — and I especially liked the red bricks. When I chose Miami University as the place where I would continue the journey of my education, I was excited. 

What has been your most memorable experience at Miami?

In my first year at Miami, I traveled to Cincinnati with my professors and classmates. I saw some amazing buildings and ate some native foods. Also, I accidently saw a wedding in a beautiful church. We also went to an art museum and had classes on a riverboat cruise. These are some of my most memorable experiences as a student at Miami.

What has been the biggest difference between your home country and the U.S.?

The biggest difference is the way of teaching. In China, classes are more lecture-based and students have less opportunity to participate. But in America, classes are more interactive and there are more chances for students to show their talents.

What has been the biggest similarity between your home country and the U.S.?

Honesty, most everything is similar between Chinese universities and American universities. Students are friendly and they enjoy spending time with each other. Students are focused on their schoolwork and they are involved in all kinds of clubs and organizations. The students in both countries are hard-working and studious.

What organizations are you involved with on campus, and why?

I joined the China America Business Organization in my sophomore year. This organization is focused on celebrating the differences between the two countries' cultures, and provides opportunities for us to communicate with global companies and organizations. We also have social events and travel together. 

What does Love & Honor mean to you?

I was told about this motto of Miami University before I came to this university. This is more like a discipline that teaches me how to be a good person. With this motto, the professors help to cultivate valuable qualities of us.

What do you like to do for fun?

In my spare time, I like to take photos on campus with my friends because the campus is beautiful. I think the experiences at Miami University are valuable, so I want to take as many photos as possible to commemorate life here. I will probably move back to my country after graduation and find a job in my hometown, so I may have fewer chances to come back to this university. Also, I like the chinese pancakes in Uptown Oxford — they taste just like what I eat in my hometown.

What is your favorite place to eat on campus?

My favorite dining hall is Garden Commons. I lived in Collins Hall during my first year at Miami University, which is near this dining hall and Farmer School of Business. This dining hall always has fresh fruit and I like it very much. Also, most of my classes are in Farmer School of Business, so it is convenient for me to eat here.

How has Miami’s focus on a liberal arts-based education helped you?

I took an anthropology course to fulfill part of my Miami Plan curriculum, which taught me a lot about American history, culture, and development. I think these kinds of courses are necessary because they help our international students learn more about American culture and become well-rounded students.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing their education at Miami University?

Miami University is an excellent university with strongly qualified professors and a comfortable living environment. Also, the students are friendly and warm-hearted — both in and out of the classroom. This campus is really beautiful, especially in autumn. So, don’t hesitate to join us and be a member of the Miami family!

 

Catch us next week as we continue to travel around the world to feature the amazing opportunities that Miami students are taking and the experiences our alumni have had since graduating!

---

Would you or someone you know want to be featured in a future Where in the World is Miami Wednesday?

Submit a Story