COI: What is your current major, degree plan, and professional concentration (if any)?
Tingkai: My current major is BAS in Learning Technologies along with an undergraduate certificate program in Data Analytics.
COI: Why did you apply for the Wircenski Scholarship and what made you think you were a good match for it?
Tingkai: I applied for this scholarship because I needed some help in paying for my education to continue pursuing my degree. I believe my GPA and my academic record made me a competitive applicant. Therefore, I applied since it does not hurt to apply.
COI: Can you explain how this scholarship will help you on your academic journey. In other words, how does it help you meet your goals?
Tingkai: This scholarship provides tremendous help for my academic journey. By having this scholarship, I can take a lot of stress off my shoulders. Therefore, I can focus more on the academic study instead of paying tuition. Hopefully, I can make a higher academic achievement by the time I graduate.
COI: What are some highlights of your time in the program so far?
Tingkai: The highlight of my program would be having the opportunity to work with Dr. Rose Baker to start the first academic research project in my life. It is a great honor to work with Dr. Baker. I know it is very difficult to meet a such prestigious faculty, so I value this opportunity and appreciate the Learning Technologies Department and University of North Texas for providing me a platform to meet and work with Dr. Baker.
COI: What are your career plans after graduation?
Tingkai: I would like to contribute to the education industry. Therefore, I would like to be an instructional designer or other job positions of a school. At the same time, I am interested in gaming and education, as well, so I would like to explore the possibilities in combining games and education. Also, to better achieve my goals, gaining a more advanced degree is also on my list.
COI: Can you share any big successes (besides the scholarship) you’ve had or obstacles you’ve overcome?
Tingkai: One of my remarkable successes can be winning the Undergraduate Research Fellowship from the Honors College. Dr. Baker and I prepared the application for the fellowship by having one on one meetings bi-weekly since March 2022. In July 2022, I got my award letter from the Honors College, and I was very excited and shared this good news with Dr. Baker immediately. I would like to say "thank you" to Dr. Baker, the true faculty champion. It would not be possible without Dr. Baker's tremendous help.