"From Taiwan to Bryn Mawr"

Originally from Tainan, Taiwan, Ann Lin ’29 has already made her mark as a campus leader. She is a member of the Denbigh Cohort of the THRIVE Living and Learning Community, works at Wyndham Alumnae House, and serves as the Green Ambassador for Denbigh Dorm. She is also an active member of Bi-Co Orchestra and Owls Ambassadors. Here, she shares her journey to Bryn Mawr as an international student.

How did you hear about us? Why a women’s college?

I went to an all-girls high school in Taiwan, and I loved the close-knit community I found there. So, when I started looking for colleges to apply to, I knew I wanted the same kind of community. I wanted to be surrounded by people I am motivated by, to have female role models, and be in a place where I’m myself!

What about Bryn Mawr’s location, community, or academics stood out in your college search?

When I was deciding between colleges, Bryn Mawr’s location immediately stood out to me. I knew I wanted a classic college-campus feel, but I also wanted the opportunities that come with being close to a city. Having Philadelphia just a short train ride away means Bryn Mawr students really get the best of both worlds. I’ve already taken several trips to Philly, and it’s amazing how easy it is to explore a lively city and then come back to a peaceful, castle-like campus.

Tell us about your social transition to Bryn Mawr.

Being part of the THRIVE LLC meant that I took my THRIVE class with the people living on my floor. Because of this proximity, we became close friends quickly. I also went to many events hosted by academic departments, affinity groups, clubs, first-year experience, etc. Having an open mindset can really help you find your community.

"While the classes are definitely challenging, the support from the professors, teaching assistants, and tutors made the transition smooth."

Tell us about your academic transition to Bryn Mawr.

Coming from a school system where test-taking and grades were emphasized heavily, the encouraging academic culture at Bryn Mawr immediately stood out to me. I still remember walking into class on the first day and hearing my professor say she wants to see us succeed in this class. I knew right away that this is a green flag. While the classes are definitely challenging, the support from the professors, teaching assistants, and tutors made the transition smooth.

What were you most nervous about as an international student and how did Bryn Mawr support you in those areas?

I was most nervous about the first-year Emily Balch Writing Seminar coming into college. And honestly, it was very challenging, as I didn’t know how to write a proper academic essay at first. But I started going to the Writing Center for help, and the tutors were incredible at guiding me through brainstorming and walking me to building my thesis.

Did anything about Bryn Mawr surprise you?

Traditions! I had heard about Bryn Mawr’s traditions during my alumnae interview, but I was still shocked by how meaningful they are after I stepped on campus. People talk about them with such joy, always smiling as they share their favorite memories. My favorite tradition so far is Lantern Night, when I received my lantern that symbolizes the passing down of knowledge. The whole experience felt so heart-warming, and it really made me understand why people love Bryn Mawr so much.

Tell us about a favorite memory on campus.

My friends and I had to read Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice for our ESEM, so we chose to do it at the prettiest spot on campus, the cloisters!

What is one piece of advice you would give a prospective international student about any part of the college process?

Do what you love and never compare your journey to anyone else’s. College admissions can be incredibly stressful, and as an international student, the pressure can feel even heavier. For me, it meant writing college essays while my classmates were preparing for the Taiwanese national exam. But I knew what I wanted and worked towards it one step at a time. Trust the path you’ve chosen, it’s okay if it looks different from everyone else’s.