My name is Runting and I come from Xi’an, China, the capital of Shaanxi province. I received my undergraduate degree at Xiamen University; I was a dual-major in Law and Economics. I also have four years of full-time experience in the workplace.
I chose LER to further my education because LER is renowned for its cutting-edge interdisciplinary course design in employment relations, which fosters both personal and professional advancement.
One of the things I miss most from home is my dessert and boba tea. I have a sweet tooth and Champaign doesn’t give me many choices. (Insomnia cookie is good to try!) I miss my family and friends, but I know they always stand with me wherever I am.
One thing that impressed me most is inclusivity. Every preference, taste, idea, value is respected and taken seriously. As for life in the US, IL is the first state I visited in the US, but that was 12 years ago. I missed the Art Institute of Chicago and the Willis tower Skydeck! I had my first handmade fluffy bear from Build-a-Bear, which accompanied me for ten years. I appreciate the second chance to come to this state!
I love Disneyland park, Blue Bottle Coffee, the Thunder From Down Under Show in LA, the Grand Canyon, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philly Cheese Steak, Princeton University's campus, Washington cherries and fresh salmon.
For me, there are some challenges and struggles going back to school after four years of working. It means stepping out of the comfort zone. I would say, “you will never know until you try it.” Be open to new experiences. Every exposure is fantastic and surprising. I feel grateful for everything I am going through in LER. There are kind and agreeable peers, encouraging and instructive professors, and supportive faculty.