Student Spotlight - Yihua Tan

What did you study at EvCC?

I studied biology at EvCC.

Why did you choose EvCC?

I chose EvCC because of the facilities and culture that I experienced during my first visit.

How did your EvCC Foundation scholarship help you?

The EvCC Foundation Scholarship allowed me to pay for classes while also alleviating some financial burdens from my family. My mom got into a car crash and our deductible was taxing on our budget. This scholarship made all the difference in the world when it came to the repayment plan from the crash.

What do you want your scholarship donor(s) to know?

I want Ms. Wright to know that her contribution to her community is admirable and I will try my best to "pay it forward" like she said. Even though I have not gotten the chance to properly thank her for the impact she made on me, I hope she understands how amazing she is, and that I will be sure to follow through on my promise to her.

Who helped you succeed at EvCC? (faculty member, staff). What did that person do to help you?

All EvCC faculty, staff, and administration helped me succeed. But I want to thank Jenn Rhodes for giving me the chance to be part of Student LIFE (as the ASB Vice President of Public Relations and Student Involvement). Even though I was not the best candidate for the job, she gave me a chance for personal and professional development and is what made my experience at EvCC so special. Jenn gave me so many second chances when I made a mistake which developed my problem-solving skills and gave me opportunities to take on responsibilities which I never thought I could take on.

What advice do you have for new EvCC students?

My advice for new EvCC students is to get involved in your community. You may be too busy or too shy, but you will be glad that you opened this new door of resources and opportunities.

What do you plan to do next? (Job, transfer, etc.)

I am transferring to the University of Washington to pursue a BS in Biochemistry.

Describe the best experience you had at EvCC.

The best I had at EvCC was the 2018 commencement ceremony. I was so happy to watch the synopsis of the work done in the Graduation Committee run like a well-oiled machine and so proud to see my friends walk across the graduation stage.