In this week's Where in the World is Miami Wednesday, we meet Songqianxi Fan, an international student from China. She's majoring in Kinesiology.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Songqianxi Fan. I come from Hunan, China. However, I was born in Xiamen, Fujian. I used to study at Changjun High School of Changsha. I studied AP there. After graduation from high school, I came to Miami University to major in Kinesiology.

How did you get to know about Miami University and what made you choose it?

I found Miami through the internet. First I saw the school's brand and logo: red, white, and black. When I see this symbol, I know it is Miami University. And I find that it ranks highly among other universities.

My goal is that I go to one of the top universities internationally, and I heard good things from others who had studied at Miami University. Therefore, I chose this university. Miami was also the only university that sent me a congratulations letter. It impressed me and made me feel thankful. The people in Admissions were so nice.

What has been your most memorable experience at Miami University so far?

The most memorable thing was the Thanksgiving Dinner in 2019. I finished my daily study and went to Shriver Center. Along with other students, I was given a sticky name card, and wrote down my name. Then I entered and saw all the guests and food!

What has been the biggest difference between your home country and the U.S.?

I lived in Changsha, Hunan province, China for most of my life. In my home country, cities and suburbs have many people. However, in Ohio, it seems that fewer people live in Cincinnati and Oxford. For example, in the morning, I want to have breakfast in Maplestreet and passed only one person on the street. However, if I walk on the street in China, there are many people.

In the U.S., some people take buses for school and for work. Many others drive cars for work. Most people eat at home, and fewer people eat in restaurants.

What has been the biggest similarity between your home country and the U.S.?

In Oxford, there are many restaurants, clothing stores, and retail stores near the school. This is the same in China.

What does Love & Honor mean to you?

To me, Love means red hearts. Honor means that we believe in an education that builds character and intellect. We support dignity, integrity, character, and respect of different beliefs. We use good judgment and have a sense of responsibility. We accept Miami University’s sprit, academic vigor, chances, and challenges. Finally, I claim Love and Honor by supporting new students at Miami University.

What do you like to do for fun?

I like to listen to music. My favorite singer is Jiaying Xu from China. I also like to watch movies, especially fantasy movies.

What is your favorite place to eat on campus?

My favorite place to eat is Maplestreet Station. It provides small cookies! Outside of Miami University, my favorite place is a Chinese restaurant called No. 5. They serve Hunan food.

How has Miami’ s focus on a liberal arts-based education helped you?

I've learned a lot about American history and culture.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering pursuing their education at Miami University?

Be friendly and communicate with others, and ask for help if you need it. You will enjoy learning to communicate with people well, how to go shopping by taking school buses, and how to have lunch in a dining hall!

Where in the World is Miami Wednesday is a news article series that features Miami students studying abroad/away and international students. Catch us next week as we continue to travel around the world to feature the amazing opportunities that Miami students are taking and the experiences our alumni have had since graduating!

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