By Ryan Elam, Student Reporter

Some international seniors look back on their past with nostalgia, but impending decisions regarding their future do not let them drift too far from reality.

Quyen Do, senior biochemistry major from Hanoi, Vietnam, chose ACU because of some family ties to the university.

She said Steven Gist, admissions representative for international students, was persistent in getting her to ACU.

“Steven Gist was very friendly and encouraging to me,” Do said. “We had a hard time, but he never gave up on me.”

She said she loves ACU, and the school has prepared her for life ahead.

“Being in the biochemistry department is probably the biggest blessing to me; the professors and staff are very loving and they make me feel at home,” Do said. “The knowledge I gained here prepares me well for what I want to do.”

Some of Do’s favorite memories from her time at ACU were made on a medical mission trip she took to Nias, Indonesia. She is also a member of the A Cappella Chorus, an extracurricular that fulfills more than just singing.

“Being a member not only enhances my love for music but also teaches me a lot about professionalism,” Do said.

Do will pursue a job in the medical field as a doctor or researcher. In the fall, she will attend the University of Texas at Dallas to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry.

Adeniyi Adebesin, senior biochemistry major from Lagos, Nigeria, said he chose ACU because the university’s chemistry department was recommended to him.

He considered transferring after his first year.

“[Now] I know that coming to ACU was a good decision,” Adebesin said. “I have grown spiritually and have been surrounded by a loving and friendly community. My professors are excellent teachers, patient with students and are good Christian models.”

Some of Adebesin’s favorite activities at ACU include doing research at school during the summer, participating in the International Students’ Association culture show, playing intramural soccer and having dinner with his professors.

Adebesin said he plans to attend the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas to earn his Ph.D. in chemistry and eventually work in his father’s pharmaceutical production company.

Commencement for graduating seniors is scheduled for Saturday.