Student Spotlight ~with Yuchun
Brief Bio (background):
I’m an international student from Taiwan currently pursuing a dual degree in Finance (MSF) and Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Portland’s School of Business. I’ve been dedicated to expanding my skills both inside and outside the course. Alongside my studies, I’ve explored a variety of part-time roles in finance, human resources, purchasing, data analysis, and forecasting, which have given me a well-rounded understanding of how different business functions connect.
Currently, I work as a marketing analyst at an e-commerce company (WTOD Group Inc.), where I also assist with accounting-related tasks. In addition, I am also planning to start operating an LLC (Unik Global LLC) after graduating at the end of 2025. UNIK is a new brand that my father and I created for our family business. It primarily follows a B2C model, selling bath waste replacement parts through e-commerce.
Outside of academics and work, I enjoy playing guitar and trying to write some songs. These kinds of activities help me stay creative and balanced. I believe creativity and analytical thinking go hand in hand, and the University of Portland has been the perfect place to develop both.
How did you learn about UP? Why did you choose to study in the School of Business?
After arriving in the United States, I first completed my postgraduate studies at Portland State University and then worked as a marketing analyst at an e-commerce company during my OPT period. When my OPT ended, I faced a choice between returning to Taiwan or continuing my education, and I decided to return to campus to pursue my graduate program.
I initially learned about the University of Portland while researching graduate programs in the United States that emphasize ethics and leadership rather than just business performance. I was particularly drawn to the UP School of Business for its small, interactive classes and focus on practical, real-world application.
This environment felt especially supportive for international students like me. The smaller class sizes made it easier to build meaningful relationships with professors, and every faculty member I met showed incredible patience and understanding, which helped ease my worries about communication.
When I reached out to current students, many shared how much professors at UP genuinely care about their students’ growth, both academically and personally. That sense of connection and mentorship impressed me deeply and became one of the main reasons I chose to study here.
The UP School of Business offers a perfect balance between technical skills and ethical leadership. The curriculum not only challenges students to think strategically but also encourages leading with integrity and empathy.
I have taken courses such as Financial Statement Analysis, Decision Modeling, Nonprofit Management, and Network Flow Optimization. Each course has deepened my understanding of complex business systems and taught me how to use data to make more informed decisions.
Another key reason I chose UP is its strong connection with local businesses. I have had the opportunity to collaborate with Portland-based organizations through class projects and client mentorships. These experiences helped me bridge theory and practice while building confidence in communicating insights to real business leaders.
Was it difficult to travel and decide to live in the U.S.? What have been the biggest challenges?
To be honest, I decided on my long-term life goals very early on, so I didn’t have much thought about my decision to come to the United States to pursue my career. Nevertheless, after graduating at 23 and completing my military service, until I boarded the plane, I was still wondering if leaving my comfort zone was the right decision, as it meant starting over.
When I first arrived in Portland, everything felt unfamiliar: the culture, the language, the pace, even the teaching methods were different. In Taiwan, students usually listen quietly, but here, discussion and participation are crucial. I was essentially learning professional knowledge in a non-native language, which made me feel insecure and out of place during group discussions.
Furthermore, my first major challenge before my first semester even ended was the pandemic. Remote learning truly deprived me of any opportunity to interact with others while learning English. I believe that language is only meaningful when it’s practiced simultaneously in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and when living in an environment entirely in that language.
After all, learning is never just about test scores; it’s about understanding the environment and culture. However, being an international student isn’t without its advantages. As an international student, I have insights from different cultural and business backgrounds. This often leads me to think differently from most people when discussing issues. The clash of ideas always produces some rather unusual results.
Another challenge is adapting to city life in a smaller city compared to Taipei. But now I truly appreciate Portland’s balance. It’s peaceful and serene, with beautiful natural scenery and a strong community atmosphere.
Golfing, playing the piano outdoors, and relaxing in cozy cafes have become my weekend routines, and I’ve found a sense of belonging here that I initially didn’t expect. Life in my hometown and Portland has a completely different pace. I’m actually surprised I’ve adapted to the pace here. I used to prefer the city’s nightlife to nature.
Any advice for an international student considering studying a graduate degree in the USA at UP?
My advice is to stay curious, be willing to try new things, and learn in all forms, not just from books! Draw nourishment from interpersonal interactions and firsthand experiences. At the University of Portland, don’t hesitate to ask questions, participate in discussions, and connect with professors; they genuinely want you to succeed.
In my experience, the University of Portland isn’t just a place to study business; it’s a place to understand how business changes the world. Professors encourage you to think about goals, ethics, and sustainability, not just profits. These are qualities I will cherish throughout my life.
As for all students from overseas, please remember that feeling confused is normal! We are learning academic knowledge in a different language, which is not easy in itself. When your confidence is shaken by the language barrier, think back to how you felt when you first stepped into this new place! Studying abroad is not easy; it’s also an opportunity to reinvent yourself.
