“All of my courses have made me think differently, and I know myself better because of it.”

Yun-Chin Chang, Acting student at The College of Performing Arts’ School of Drama, on her Bob Hope Scholarship

I am thankful for the supportive faculty and students in my cohort. I came to America by myself and when I arrived I was unsure if I’d made the right choice. I was frustrated because my strong accent immediately let people know I was foreign. But I have been very lucky in my program at The School of Drama. People here don’t exercise unnecessary judgment, and are open to any and all challenges. Susan Cameron taught my Neutral American Speech class, and she has been kind and willing to practice all my scripts with me. She has corrected my mistakes and made my delivery clear. All of my courses have made me think differently, and I know myself better because of it.

I was born in Taiwan, and coming to graduate school was my first time leaving the country and living on my own. I always dreamed of one day going abroad, but it made my family nervous because they did not have the funds to send me away. I am so appreciative of your kindness. Because of you, I have been able to leave my comfort zone. Every day, I learn new things and how to do them on my own. Everyone I’ve encountered here is kind and willing to help, especially the students in my cohort and my roommates. I don’t feel lonely, and I cherish my new experiences.

If I did not have scholarship support, I would not have had the chance to study here. I am so lucky to have been given this opportunity. I love to learn and work hard on every project. Thank you for your generosity. I am looking forward to completing my studies and exploring this beautiful country.

To learn more about supporting students at The New School through scholarships, visit give.newschool.edu.