Dandi Huang

Activities, Clubs, and Jobs on Campus: Resident Assistant, Microbiology Lab Assistant, Health Center Student Aide, Piano Lessons

What is your best Whitman memory?

Screaming my way down a not-so-steep hill during a cross country ski trip with the Outdoor Program. It was my first time on skis and I couldn’t figure out how to stop. The trip consisted of me and two of my good friends so it wasn’t TOO embarrassing...

What has Whitman taught you outside of the classroom?

So much! I gained important leadership skills through being a Resident Assistant, the CFO of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, and a trip leader for the immigration and refugee resettlement spring break service trip. I have also discovered my interest in research through Whitman funded internships at research centers. All these different experiences taught me that if you’re really passionate or curious about something, and are willing to take the initiative to pursue that interest, someone will take notice and help you open new doors!

What has been your favorite class at Whitman?

While not technically a class, I have really enjoyed taking piano lessons at Whitman. I am a science major, so piano gives me an outlet to be creative and just do something completely different. I have access to practice rooms at all hours of the day and can perform every year—privileges are often reserved for music majors at large universities. Though I probably will not continue formal piano training beyond Whitman, I am really cherishing the opportunity to include music in my undergraduate career.

What special skills do you have?

I can speak Jachinglish! (Japanese + Chinese + English). My parents and I are trilingual so that’s what we speak at home. Sometimes I find it easier and more natural to speak Jachinglish than having to differentiate between the languages.