Name: Euan Seow
Pronouns: He/Him
Class: 2026
From: Singapore
Studying: Double major in Computer Science & Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, minoring in business
How did you hear about the University of Rochester? What impacted your decision to apply?
I heard about the University of Rochester through the recommendation of a college counselor who noted that it fits well with what I desired in a school – a strong STEM education at a liberal arts college. What stood out to me that made me apply to the school was reading about the Rochester curriculum and the level of ownership I had to tailor my courses and education to my unique wants and needs. As a current student I can confidently say that the Rochester Curriculum has exceeded my expectations and the academic freedom it provides has deeply enriched my college experience.
Describe the student body at Rochester.
The Rochester student body is nerdy – but in a good way. Many students are very clear about their interests and passions and are thoroughly committed to pursuing and furthering them. This results in an academically driven and studious culture that is still cooperative, rather than competitive. This also exhibits itself in clubs and activities which are often populated with earnest and passionate members.
How did you develop a community of friends on campus?
No week of my life felt longer than orientation week because of how many people I met and how many things I went off and did. Embrace the opportunity to dive into the activities and meet as many people as you can – those connections often last throughout your time at Rochester. Two years later, some of my closest friends were friends I made during that week. Another great way to make friends though is through clubs and communities. I was a member of student government for the first 2 years of my time in school which helped me form a number of connections and I also regularly hang out with my fellow improv performance troupe members. Meeting people is a lot easier when you share common interests, passions, or goals, and campus communities here are incredibly welcoming to newcomers.
What’s one resource on campus that you recommend that other international students should take advantage of and why?
The International Services Office (ISO). I was the Chair of International Student Affairs in Student Government for a year and had the opportunity to work with members of the ISO team through that role. From that, I can wholeheartedly vouch that they’re truly committed to helping international students succeed on campus. For any problems to do with social security, immigration, taxes, or your administrative work as an international student they will be able to answer your questions or – at least – connect you to the right resources. Further, ISO regularly holds social events (picnics, visits to local museums, sports games – and even Niagara Falls!) which can be a blast and a great way to meet people or bond with friends.
What do you do on campus or around Rochester when you’re not studying or in class?
Improvised comedy! I stumbled into Improv Club as a Freshman and – somehow – by the end of the year became a performance troupe member and then the vice president. I could go on about the magic of the format, the self-confidence it develops, or the awesome community but ultimately it’s just a load of fun. There’s no better way to end a long day of school than meeting up with a group of hilarious people and spending an hour and a half making each other split our sides. I also enjoy bouldering and running. There’s a great bouldering gym (Central Rock Gym) that’s accessible via school shuttle buses (the Blue Line) and the Genesee Riverway trail that runs alongside our school is a beautiful spot to run, especially in the fall and spring.
