Chieh-Hsi (Jessie) Chen, from Taiwan, studied on the High School Completion Program with Kings at Marymount California University. Here, she tells us about her experience so far, and her ideas about possible fields of study. 

Hi Jessie. What have you enjoyed most about your studies/being at Kings so far?

I have really liked David as a teacher. He is a good teacher. This is my third year in America. I used to be in a New Jersey High School. I decided to graduate earlier and come to Kings. I first came and David’s class was difficult, yet, he still explained things step by step which has helped me learn a lot. 

Why did you decide to take this course and what have you found most helpful so far?

The Kings High School Completion Program has helped me graduate from school earlier. I was also living in New Jersey and that was too cold. Living in California is a better fit for me. My High School Completion Program, teacher always helps me think critically, and my course load at Kings has helped me understand a strict schedule. I know in college we need to manage our time more and is nice that I know how to do it better now. 

Do you know yet what subject you’d like to major in, and which university you’d like to get to?

I don’t know yet what I want to study. I am really interested in psychology and communications. I like to talk to people and I like to solve people’s problems. I also like to meet people from different cultures. I don’t know what university I want to get to, but I know I want to go where there is nice weather. 

Had you been to California before? What do you like about living in Rancho Palos Verdes?

I had not been to California before, this was my first time coming here, I really like the nice weather that is here all the time and the amazing view!

What support have you received from Kings staff at MCU?

My English has improved. They have also helped me understand what I want to major in. I also like the services and attention, like they made a trip to a Chinese market that really was very helpful.

What are you most looking forward to about starting your freshman year at University?

I want to meet more people, I want to experience more diversity. I want to meet people who can help me understand more about my own life, and hopefully help me understand what I want to study in the future. 

What advice would you give to other students from your country who are considering doing this program?

Prepare your English to a certain level. So you can communicate with more people and have more confidence in class and participate in discussions. Have an open mind to meet people from different cultures.