Wenqian Wang of Yantai, China, graduated from Murray State University on May 11 with her Doctor of Arts in English pedagogy. While she plans to return to teaching English at Ludong University in China — where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees — she said Murray became a home of her own.
“Murray State is a university of diverse culture, tradition and love,” Wang said, offering a recent example. “One freezing winter morning, Dr. Don Robertson, our vice president for student affairs, gave each passing student a cup of hot chocolate. I received one. It warmed my heart and soul. It’s my first time seeing a university caring about its students in such a touching way.”
Wang credits her son and late grandmother as major influences on her life, helping her to grow and become the person she is today. As for her Murray State career, she points to assistant professor of English Dr. Sara Cooper as one of her favorite professors.
While attending the University, Wang has worked as a teaching assistant. She said that classroom experience, coupled with her own education, has helped to equip her in her teaching career. She also served as a University representative of a delegation of Chinese students around the Commonwealth for a reception hosted in part by Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin and Lt. Gov. Jenean Hampton.
Reflecting on Saturday’s commencement, Wang offered some friendly advice to incoming students.
“Cherish every day when you are here,” Wang said. “You will never know how much you love this university until the time you leave.”
The May 2019 commencement ceremony took place May 11 at 9 a.m. in the CFSB Center for graduates of the Bauernfeind College of Business, College of Humanities and Fine Arts and Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology, with a 2 p.m. ceremony for graduates of the College of Education and Human Services, Hutson School of Agriculture, School of Nursing and Health Professions and interdisciplinary studies (Associate of General Studies and BIS Degrees). Use #RacerGraduation on social media to share your commencement experience.
College of humanities and fine arts 