Title: L&S College Adviser
Neighborhood: Social Sciences
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About Mei-Chen
Joined the L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising in:
August 2024
Education
PhD, Comparative Literature, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
MA, Cultural Studies, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
MA, Mass Communication, National Chengchi University, Taiwan
BA, Foreign Languages and Literatures, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
What is your approach to advising?
Informed by Strength-Based Advising and Validation Theories, I strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where each student feels valued and heard. By active listening and engaging, I aim to help students recognize and build upon their unique strengths. In my interaction with students, my goal is to make them feel more connected with the Berkeley community and to empower them to navigate their academic and personal journeys with confidence.
How did you get here?
I grew up in Taiwan and had always been very curious about different cultures and lifestyles, so I made lots of efforts to study abroad. When I studied in the Netherlands, I developed deep interests in critical theories and eventually came to the US to become a professor. After working as an adjunct professor, I found that even though I liked teaching, I actually enjoyed meeting students in office hours more because I could learn about my students in a holistic way. I then explored the field of College Advising and totally loved it! After working as an academic success coach for a couple of years, I came to L&S Advising and felt energetic every day as there were so many cool things to learn.
What advice do you have for L&S students in general?
Meet different people, expand your horizons, and try something different when you have a chance! You belong here and you are an integral part of the Berkeley community. Make sure to give yourself some breathing room every now and then.
About me
When I am not working, I like practicing yoga, reading, taking walks, and watching movies as well as way-too-addictive Korean dramas. I have many stories in my mind and hopefully I can make them into words little by little. Growing up in Taipei and having lived in the Bay Area for more than 10 years, I consider both places home.
