Dear University Graduate Students:

On behalf of the Graduate Student Senate, I would like to greet you with a warm welcome to the University. I am sure you are excited and you may also be ready for some new challenges as you begin your graduate career.

I want to tell you a little bit about some challenges I have faced at the University.

Bowling Green is more than 7,000 miles away from my hometown in China. When I first came here to pursue my master’s degree, I faced many challenges, such as homesickness, culture shock, language problems and first-time teaching nerves.

So how did I get through them? It was thanks to the many people who have helped me.

My wonderful parents are my no. 1 supporters. Even though they were thousands of miles away, they were always there for me 100 percent with understanding and encouragement.

The faculty from both the English and biology departments were also super helpful and supportive. Especially, my mentor Professor Paul Morris was very nice and patient in guiding me through my research projects and helping me with studies.

With all of the help I received as well as my self-confidence, I successfully dealt with my challenges, and also learned a lot from them.

I came to enjoy my life to the point where I now consider Bowling Green my hometown away from home.

I know the first week can be really overwhelming for you in your new surroundings and when you are away from your loved ones. There might also be many challenges you will have to face. But remember you are not alone.

The graduate student body is composed of people from very diverse backgrounds, but together we form a big University family, and we can always get support and help from our family members to overcome our challenges.

GSS, one important group in this family, represents all graduate students. GSS can certainly help you whenever it’s needed. We have the structure and resources that allow you to discover, explore, participate and organize activities on campus.

Use your time well here, no matter how challenging it can be in the future.

Use your talent and courage to make memories. These will become good experiences you can share with others to shape your future. I hope you will spice up your University life and keep it exciting.

Show your falcon spirit and roll along.