Strategically located in the state capital of New York, the University at
Strategically located in the state capital of New York, the University at Albany is an internationally recognized public research institution that brings “The World Within Reach” to nearly 18,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The varied perspectives and life experiences of a student body and faculty that represent more than 100 nations provide a diversity that enriches learning at UAlbany.
In every area of study, students are instructed by faculty who are world-class scholars and teachers – many actively engaged in life-enhancing research that contributes profoundly to the public good. As mentors, they provide numerous student-research opportunities at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, inspiring students to advance their skills and aspirations.
Meet SUNY girl Juliet Shen!
ASIANCE: What University are you attending?
Juliet: I attend SUNY University at Albany.
ASIANCE: Why did you choose the school where you are currently studying?
Juliet: My dad was offered a job there, but after he turned it down, I kept my interest in the school and its Sociology and East Asian programs.
ASIANCE: What is your major?
Juliet: I am a Psychology and East Asian Studies double major, and I might add on a minor in sociology.
At SUNY Albany it’s a very open and welcoming place for Asians, but at my high school in Arizona I was one of few Asians and constantly became the “token Asian friend” with nicknames like Fried Rice and just plain ‘Asian’.
ASIANCE: What will you be doing after you graduate?
Juliet: After graduating, I plan on attending law school and becoming an attorney.
ASIANCE: What clubs or extracurricular activities do you enjoy? If Asian specific, why did you choose to join?
Juliet: I’m actually right about to rush the two Asian interest sororities on campus, Kappa Phi Lambda and Sigma Psi Zeta. I’m also involved with tae kwon do and the Chinese Student Association. I recently “awakened” as an Asian American and want to continue to evolve my identity and cultural knowledge. These groups make me feel more comfortable than ever.
ASIANCE: What is the hardest part about being a student?
Juliet: For me, the hardest part about being a student is learning to discipline myself and set aside time to do prioritized things. Time management can be tricky.
ASIANCE: What are you looking forward to the most about graduating?
Juliet: I can’t wait to really “start” my life and start working and making an active impact in the APIA community and the word in general.
ASIANCE: What will you miss about not attending school?
Juliet: I’ll definitely miss always having people around, it’s nice to be in the midst of constant hustle and bustle.
ASIANCE: Was there another school you wanted to attend?
Juliet: I was going to attend American University in Washington DC, but something went wrong with my application.
ASIANCE: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Juliet: In 5 years I plan on being enrolled at a law school concentrating on human rights and minority law.
ASIANCE: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Juliet: In 10 years I’d like to be working in New York City or Washington DC, campaigning and working to be a partner in a law firm. Ambitious, I know, but it’s a goal.
ASIANCE: Any significant accomplishments you would like to add during your time in college?
Juliet: While I’m in college, I’d like to intern with OCA and other advocacy organizations so I can do my part as an Asian American. I’d also like to expand my APIA issue blog and start writing more myself.
ASIANCE: Looking back would you do anything differently?
Juliet: If I could go back, I’d focus more in high school and take things more seriously instead of pushing it all back so I could be more social. It caught up to me and it’s a major regret of mine.
ASIANCE: Was there anything hard about being Asian at your school?
Juliet: At SUNY Albany it’s a very open and welcoming place for Asians, but at my high school in Arizona I was one of few Asians and constantly became the “token Asian friend” with nicknames like Fried Rice and just plain ‘Asian’.
ASIANCE: What advice would you give to girls who are looking at colleges right now?
Juliet: Remember that it’s not always about the name or reputation of the school. Look into programs and majors that the school excels in, and if you’re planning on going to graduate school/medical school/law school, I’d pick a more affordable option so the debts don’t drown you when you finish.