Angela Lee ‘23
Hospitality Management & Communication
Taipei, Taiwan
The Gables CA, International Cafe, Club Managers Association of America, Student Alumni Association, UNH Wildcats Comm + Marketing intern, Dean's Ambassador
“When I first came here I was insecure about socializing & a bit intimidated by the campus size. My high school in Oregon (I came to the US my sophomore year!) was 50% Asian, so coming here was a drastic change. But the inclusiveness I’ve experienced, not only with international students but my American peers, has led to the best memories.
It was the kitchen that really sold me on Hospitality. I saw it and thought, 'Wow, if I could cook in here!' Using the industrial standard of everything is just cool. I love food - and I love snacking. I think it's the best. If you can't eat a meal, you might as well have a snack!
My family's very passionate about traveling and experiencing different cultures, so I've always wanted to pursue a career in tourism. Freshman year I was focused on the hotel industry, but doing the ECenter's I2 Passport program has given me an entrepreneur's perspective of the industry and changed my future goals. Someday I see myself owning a bed and breakfast that's also a dog shelter. I love dogs!
A lot of people here struggle to say no, even if they’re over-involved (like me lol), or they just don’t want to go to something. So if I could tell my freshman self anything: it’s okay to say no! It’s okay to take a step back, debrief, and reflect on what you’re already doing.
Everyone emphasizes putting yourself out there during your first year and I found myself getting involved in everything. But it's important to remember that college is a blank canvas and you can do anything you want with it. (And I'm still involved in a lot!!) If you want to leave it blank, leave it blank!
Last year I was an RA - now I'm a CA. I decided to do it because I love helping people. I've made a lot of great relationships. A lot of people still cheering me on through my journey!
I didn’t even know how to spell 'New Hampshire' before I came here, so it's safe to say it’s been a wild ride. I'm thankful I've had the opportunity to achieve things that I never thought possible."
