Alumni Check-in: Belinda Wu (Class of 2023)

Q. Where do you live now? Why? What are you doing?

A: I currently live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I’m a junior at Carnegie Mellon University, but since I’m graduating a semester early, I’m technically considered a senior! I study Business Administration and Decision Science.

Q. What are the biggest differences between there and Kaohsiung? What’s the biggest similarity?

A: The biggest difference is definitely the weather. Pennsylvania gets so cold, and it snows all the way into March, which is honestly kind of crazy to me.

One of the biggest similarities, though, is the people. I’ve met amazing people here who make Pittsburgh feel like home!

Q. What does a typical day look like for you?

A: I usually wake up around 8–10 AM depending on when my classes are. Since I live off campus, I take the bus to class. Sometimes I go home to cook, but other days I stay on campus and grab food with friends.

I’m involved in several clubs, including the Real Estate Club, Taiwanese Students Association, Badminton Club, and my sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta, so I often have meetings or events during the day. After that, I usually stay on campus to do homework or study until around 9–10 PM.

Then I go home, finish any remaining work, and rest. I usually go to sleep around 12–2 AM.

Q. What’s one thing you miss most about Taiwan?

A: Definitely my family and the food. I never thought being so far away from my family would be this hard. I’ve gotten more used to it over time, but it really makes me cherish the time I get to spend with them.

And of course, the food. The food in Taiwan is amazing. Every time I come back to the U.S. from Taiwan, my suitcases are always filled with snacks and food.

Q. What advice would you give to high school students?

A: Surround yourself with people you want to become like. You don’t realize how much the people around you influence who you are. Growing and learning with people you love is one of the best things life can give you.

Q. Did your KAS experience prepare you for life after high school?

A: I think going to an international school definitely helps and is a unique experience. However, college in the US is still very different, so there are still many new things to adjust to.

Q. What are you looking forward to most in the next five years?

A: Spending time with my best friends and family while continuing to grow and improve every day.

I used to try to plan everything out, but I realized that you can’t predict everything that will happen.

So now I’m trying to take things one step at a time. My current goal is to graduate early, find a full-time job that I’m passionate about, preferably in New York City, or continue my education and pursue a master’s degree.

Q. Anything else?

A: Make the most of your time! Go out, meet people, travel, and explore new hobbies. The four years go by so quickly, so stay grateful and be happy. ☺️