1. What do you like best about being a UC San Diego student?

Wong: I love UC San Diego's sense of innovation, diversity and novelty.  As a student, I always find new and exciting things happening on campus.  I've been here for four years, and there need not be a dull moment, if you don't want one!  

UC San Diego is definitely a university I'm proud to be a part of.  The students here really are the best of the best, and each one brings something new to the table.  Faculty members here do cutting-edge research, and the opportunities to participate are numerous.  All of this truly makes my college career one to remember and cherish. 

2. What does it mean to you to be a Chancellor’s Scholar?

Wong: Being a Chancellor’s Scholar proves to me that the underdog can still succeed and win, no matter the circumstances.  I am a first-generation college student and both of my parents work low-income jobs.  Despite this, I studied hard and aimed to get into college.  On top of that, I was super involved, joining clubs and later leading them.  The Chancellor’s Scholarship Committee, in selecting me, told me that being involved and aiming high are qualities that are admirable and acceptable.
 
As a college student, I still aim high.  I study hard with the hope of getting into a good graduate school.  In addition, I'm involved with Circle K, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and Tau Beta Pi (The Engineering Honor Society).  I conduct research with Jan Talbot, Ph.D. as well as work part time at UC San Diego’s Environment, Health, and Safety Department.  Yes, it is a super busy lifestyle, but I feel I wouldn't be fulfilling my role as a Chancellor’s Scholar if I did it any other way. 

3. Who has been your biggest champion?

Wong: My parents are my biggest champions.  Without their support, I would not be in college.  Coming from a low-income family, my parents still afforded me the luxury of SAT classes.  My parents supported me being involved in high school, even though it was a burden on their own schedules.  They were there for me when I needed transportation to community service events and meetings.  They fostered in me the will to persevere, despite circumstances. 

4. Tell me about some of the community service projects you’ve worked on, and how helping others has helped you.

Wong: As a Chancellor’s Scholar and a future engineer, I recognize the meaning of giving back and serving the community.  In fact, the three tenets of Circle K are service, leadership and fellowship.  Through Circle K, I've participated in service projects such as volunteering at soup kitchens, cleaning up beaches and visiting senior centers.  The two events that had the biggest impact were Masquerade Ball, a dance that raised over $10,000 for the Pediatric Trauma Program, and Single Service, a large-scale service project that helped renovate homes for low-income and transitioning families.  These projects remind me how important it is to help others, and why I chose to be an engineer. 

5. What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?

Wong: Get involved!  There's so much more to college than just academic schoolwork.  Take the initiative and look at the booths on Library Walk.  Attend a meeting or event.  If you're shy, take a friend.  Your success and happiness in college requires handling the delicate balance of your academic and social life. 

6. What are you studying and where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Wong: I am currently studying chemical engineering in one of the nation's first-ever NanoEngineering departments.  I plan to attend graduate school and study materials science and engineering.  In 10 years, I see myself in the nanotechnology industry, studying nanomaterials and fabricating nanoscale devices.  Nano is definitely the next hottest thing, and I want to a part of it!

Fun Faves

Favorite place on campus: Earl's Place

Favorite class/subject: Nanomaterials and Properties

Favorite hobby: Community service on the weekends with Circle K

Favorite movie:
Lord of the Rings

Favorite UCSD tradition/event: Sun God Festival