UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — An international student who found a home at Penn State and success inside the classroom and beyond will represent the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications as its student marshal during summer commencement exercises.
Yuqian Tan, an advertising/public relations major who consistently earned Dean’s List honors, will represent the Bellisario College on Aug. 12 during commencement exercises at the Bryce Jordan Center.
Tan, from Changsha, China, concluded her studies this summer with an independent study focused on social media strategy. She also served as member of the public relations team for the International Student Investment Association.
Tan adapted to a new country and to Penn State by moving outside her comfort zone and asking questions and seeking support. She said once she got over her initial hesitation about asking for help, she found learning from failures and missed opportunities made her stronger.
She admitted the transition and path to success was not always easy.
“When I first learned that I had been selected as student marshal, I was both surprised and deeply honored,” Tan said. “It’s also a recognition of all the hard work I put in during my four years — a journey for which I am very grateful. In addition, my professors have been there to provide me with guidance and support the entire time.”
After graduation, Tan said she plans to leverage what she’s learned about advertising, business, marketing and public relations and start her own business with a fashion-industry focus.