The Home Away from Home
As an international student from China, I found navigating life in the U.S. both fun and challenging. I’ve always been interested in learning about the cultural differences that shape people’s experiences. I aim to support the international community both on and off campus.
After graduation, I became a bilingual insurance agent at Paul Lee Agency, Inc. Most of my clients are Asian Americans who speak both Mandarin and English, and my expertise has earned their trust and appreciation.
International Center
During college, I was also actively involved in the international student community. In my junior and senior year, I was the Social Media & Marketing Assistant at the University of Michigan International Center.
Each year, around 8,000 new international students arrive at UM, and many face challenges adjusting to a new environment. To help them feel more connected, I rented equipment, conducted video shoots, and edited together international students’ stories and reflections.
I also edited videos, designed fliers, and wrote posts for the International Center’s Instagram to showcase its unique programs and activities that bring the international community together.
International Students’ Experience
Roam Bistro (漫谈Bistro)
Roam Bistro is a media and culture club I founded and led during my sophomore year at the University of Michigan. I created the club to build a space where Chinese international students could creatively express their experiences studying and living in the U.S., and to foster a sense of community through storytelling and shared perspectives. As the club leader, I guided more than 25 members in developing content that reflected our cross-cultural experiences and challenges.
I oversaw the full creative process—from brainstorming topics and producing videos to planning marketing strategies—and ensured each piece of content was both engaging and informative for our audience.
What’s the experience like as a UMich international student?
Our first published video, which explored the experience of studying at the University of Michigan, reached over 10,000 views and 170 likes on Bilibili. The impact was tangible—people recognized me on campus, and several students told me the video helped them prepare for their journey to UM.
Other videos covered topics such as dating as an international student, finding internships, and campus safety in Ann Arbor. Each topic reflected real concerns that international students often have. Being 14 hours away from home, we came together to share stories that mattered to us.
Beyond productions, I organized team hang-outs, editing sessions, and outdoor activities. Through these connections, we built a sense of belonging in Ann Arbor — our home away from home.
Credits
International Center
Videographer & Editor & Designer: Naomi Zheng
Advisor: Laure Bordas-Isner
Software: CapCut
Roam Bistro (漫谈Bistro)
Editor: Naomi Zheng & Club Members
Videographers: Club Members
Software: CapCut