Zhe-Yu, also known as Johnny, came to the US from Taiwan to pursue a master’s degree in electrical engineering at the University of Dayton (UD). He enrolled through UDayton Global, a program specifically for international students, administered collaboratively between the university and Shorelight. Zhe-Yu was drawn to UD’s highly regarded graduate engineering school and, thanks to UDayton Global’s support, was also able to gain valuable professional experience through on-campus jobs.
Read on to learn more about Zhe-Yu’s journey from Taiwan to the US and his experiences working on campus at the University of Dayton.
Why Choose the University of Dayton?
Zhe-Yu first heard about the University of Dayton in an unexpected way — through the NBA 2K video game! He noticed that the University of Dayton had a strong basketball team and what started as a casual discovery sparked his curiosity during his search for universities in the US, leading him to learn more about the school.
After completing his bachelor’s in electronic engineering in Taiwan, Zhe-Yu wanted to take the next step in his academic journey and earn a graduate degree. While exploring options for graduate engineering programs in the US, he came across the University of Dayton, a top-ranked university in Dayton, Ohio.
Renowned for its commitment to hands-on learning and real-world professional training, the University of Dayton empowers students to explore their passions through experiences that go beyond the classroom. With opportunities to participate in research, internships, on-campus work, and community engagement, students gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their careers and make a meaningful impact.
After getting accepted and arriving on campus, Zhe-Yu enjoyed the welcoming campus culture, affordable cost of living in Ohio, and supportive faculty and student community.
Engineering Excellence at the University of Dayton
The University of Dayton’s School of Engineering is ranked #52 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and offers a wide range of opportunities for students looking to pursue STEM degrees in the US. With more than 15 graduate engineering programs and certificates including computer engineering, aerospace engineering, materials engineering, electrical engineering, and more, the University of Dayton provides students with a strong academic foundation and hands-on learning experiences.
As the #1 Catholic university for sponsored engineering research and development, and ranked #9 nationally for federally sponsored engineering R&D,* the University of Dayton is a hub for innovation and discovery. Students have a variety of opportunities to engage in research in areas that align with their interests, working and learning from top scholars and industry leaders in a well-equipped and supportive academic environment.
Finding Support at UDayton Global
When Zhe-Yu first arrived in the United States, he experienced the usual cultural shock that comes with studying abroad. However, his friendly personality and positive attitude helped him quickly build connections with his fellow students, faculty members, and the local community. With additional guidance and support from the UDayton Global team, he was able to build a strong network and feel at home on campus.
“UDG offers good resources at school or off campus,” Zhe-Yu said. He emphasized how much support he received from the team and encouraged students to reach out to the UDayton Global team for any support they might need, whether it is related to academics or in adjusting to campus life.
During his time on campus, Zhe-Yu also found support from Nate Prior, assistant academic operations director at UDayton Global and a neurodiversity advocate.
“I found out that Johnny has Tourette syndrome,” said Prior, who also has the neurological condition, which may express through involuntary tics, such as repetitive movements or sounds. “I reached out to him because I thought ‘we can connect on this’ and I wanted to lend my support to Johnny as a colleague and as an advocate in the neurodiversity space.”
The support made a big impact. Feeling seen, safe, and supported, Zhe-Yu was able to fully focus on his academic goals. It also gave him the confidence to take on meaningful work and leadership opportunities across campus.
Taking on Leadership at UDayton Global
While pursuing his MS in Electrical Engineering at the University of Dayton, Zhe-Yu was able to secure a position as an orientation leader, where he led undergraduate and graduate international students on campus tours and helped them adjust to life in the US.
Later, he took on a role as a world associate with the University of Dayton’s Intensive English Program, assisting students with registration, scheduling appointments, and connecting them with academic advisors. His involvement didn’t stop there: Zhe-Yu also became a student ambassador with Shorelight, helping to organize on- and off-campus events and contributing to UDayton Global projects that supported the international student community.
Advice for International Students
With the experience he acquired working as an orientation leader, world associate, and as a student ambassador, Zhe-Yu strongly encourages students to communicate with their peers and to reach out to the international office whenever they have questions.
“If [you] have questions, just ask. Don’t be afraid of asking questions,” he said, “because if you don’t ask, how can we help you? I face a lot of students who don’t ask questions and they wait until the deadline [to] submit some form, or something like that.”
Zhe-Yu also encourages international students to come to the US to study and take full advantage of their time studying abroad, making the most of all the resources available.
Looking Ahead: Zhe-Yu’s Future Plans
When asked about his career goals, Zhe-Yu’s number-one priority is to secure a job in the US. As a STEM graduate, Zhe-Yu is eligible for a STEM OPT extension which grants him 24 additional months of OPT work authorization in his field of study, in addition to the standard 12-month post-completion OPT.
He is excited about the opportunity to gain professional experience in the US and continue building on the foundation he developed at the University of Dayton.
Just come here to study, enjoy your life, and if you have questions, just ask. Don’t be afraid!” Zhe-Yu, MS, Electrical Engineering, University of Dayton
Zhe-Yu’s inspiring journey from Taiwan to finding success at the University of Dayton highlights the importance of having a positive attitude and embracing student life wherever you go.
Discover the University of Dayton >
*National Science Foundation
