Janie Chen

Mt Bonnell Scshot - Janie K Chen.png

Hometown: Pearland, TX

Major: Marketing

Year: Sophomore

1. Why did you join ABSA?

I joined ABSA because I wanted to find a diverse community where I could expand my horizons. Coming into college through Zoom, I felt really detached from other students, so I wanted ABSA to be that connection (which it was!). ABSA was the most holistic org for someone like me, who didn't know their major as a freshman, to develop socially, professionally AND philanthropically. Also, it was first on the list and really easy to find, so I joined and decided that would be the org for me!

2. What is your favorite ABSA memory?

I would say my favorite ABSA memory is sitting in on our Case Comps and hearing the judges' feedbacks! It was really cool hearing the critiques and compliments judges gave on what I had thought was a perfect presentation. There were so many factors I had not thought of as a student, and it was insightful seeing which qualities they emphasized, such as some preferring style and others content.

3. What’s your favorite thing about UT Austin?

I love how close everything is, both people and locations! There's a certain comfort and motivation that comes from being constantly surrounded by students, all with their own lives and passions. I love how within the UT bubble you can really feel really sheltered from the outside world, yet once you walk 2 minutes and cross Guad there's an entire city out there waiting for you! It's really comforting on campus, but you get that city life experience!

4. If you could give one piece of advice to your freshman self, what would it be?

I would say to stop worrying about what others think. You should just go for what you want to and stop overthinking every presentation you give and every idea you pitch. Other people have their own worries and you offer a new perspective they can appreciate, even if they don't agree with you. Just say yes to things and enjoy life as a college student! Only one year has passed but it feels like there's not enough left!

5. What is your dream job?

A professional food blogger (*paid*). If I could take good enough pictures that companies would be willing to pay me to eat food...well then ahahah YES PLS. The only concern is that I would simply bum around and put on pounds every day, so I would need to really dedicate myself to the gym. There are many restaurants that I want to try, so I would love for them to help me refine my palate~

6. What’s your favorite TV Show/Movie/etc?

Hands down Kaichou wa Maid-sama <3 my whole childhood ...oh wait, but also Goblin (it's a kdrama pls check it out if you're interested :) full name Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)

7. What is one thing that you love about yourself?

I love that I enjoy meeting new people. Though I am sometimes 60% introverted and at others 60% extroverted, I appreciate that I love talking to new people and hearing their life stories! I am always looking to make new friends, have an interesting conversation, and just get out of my apartment!

8. Name the top five things on your bucket list

  1. Explore a night market in Taiwan (maybe several)

  2. Go to any animal cafe in Japan (actually Hedgehogs first <3)

  3. Enjoy a 3-day cruise to the Bahamas without dying from motion sickness

  4. Go to Santorini and take beautiful photos for the 'gram

  5. Have a proper conversation with someone in Spanish and flex to my friends