Rachel Wong, a writer, speaker and podcaster, is graduating with a BA (Honours) in Communication and International Studies. She isn’t leaving SFU yet and will soon begin a new chapter as the Coordinator of Communications and Engagement at SFU's Surrey campus.
“While it’s sad that we won’t have a physical convocation, I take heart knowing that this doesn’t change the fact that I and my fellow graduates will still receive our degrees,” she says. “I think this pandemic has really gotten me to evaluate and think about my own priorities and relationships, and in the few social distancing get-togethers that I’ve had so far, I’ve become really thankful for the friends I do have.”
Wong recently presented her honours thesis, studying the ways in which Chinese seniors relate to the place of Chinatown through the lens of culturally significant food.
“It was a privilege to meet and work with Chinese seniors and hear their stories. I never imagined that I would do research on my own, but when I presented my thesis over Zoom, I was floored at the response and the fact that I did it!”
During these difficult times, Wong says it’s important to focus on what we can change in our own lives.
“We all have a unique voice, perspective, and opportunity. To quote the wonderful Miss Frizzle from Magic School Bus, ‘take chances, make mistakes, and get messy.’ I look forward to seeing how we as the COVID class will change the world in the years to come.”
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