The greatest piece of advice Clay Meng has when it comes all-things-life is to “take time to enjoy the little things”. As a first year Science student at the University of British Columbia, we are certain that this advice will go a long way. Learn more about Clay and other Beedie Luminaries here.
What program will you be taking in post-secondary and why does it interest you?
I will be in the science program at UBC, and I am planning to specialize in animal biology next year. I’ve absolutely adored animals all my life, and I really want to help our wildlife because more and more animals are at risk of dying from our constantly changing environment.
Tell us a little bit about your background (growing up, going to school, extra-curricular activities, etc.).
Growing up in Richmond, I’m from a bit of a cultural mix. I love anything music related. I spend most of my free time playing different instruments, practicing, or writing songs. If you have any music recommendations please share! I’m always up for some fresh tunes.
Who inspires you, and why?
My family friend faced trials and tribulations early on and worked incredibly hard to achieve his success. Besides being resilient, he’s super creative, and I’m always impressed by his project ideas and solutions. The most inspiring thing about him though, is that through it all he has remained so compassionate to those around him. I respect him a lot for that.
What motivates you, and why?
The search for motivation to do certain things has been a continuing thing for me. Competitiveness amongst my peers and the content I’m learning keep me going, but mostly it’s the pressure I put on myself to do well so I don’t disappoint those supporting me.
What are your goals for the upcoming school year?
My goal is to not crash and burn, and to pass all my classes. I know it may seem like I’m shooting too low, but I am seriously stressed and concerned about this upcoming year. I’m taking baby steps please bear with me. I am also planning to learn and experiment with different subjects to hopefully narrow down my ideas of what I want to do in the future.
What is one thing you‘ve learned in high school that you will take with you to post-secondary?
I am going to bring my interpersonal skills that I’ve polished through high school to post-secondary with me. Post-secondary is a new start and if I’m meeting new people everyday, I’ll need it. I want to make as many connections as possible to make university not as dauntingly massive.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to future Luminaries?
Take time to enjoy the little things while you can. I know that it is probably a very busy and stressful time right now for you guys, but if you ever find even a sliver of time, breathe, look around, and appreciate the time you have with your friends and family. You deserve to take a break and it might be the last time you get to spend time with important people in your life.
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