Meet Cheryl-lyn Ngoh, a graduate student orientation (GSO) teaching fellow and Business Administration doctoral student with a concentration in Marketing. Read on to learn more about her favorite places in Kent, what she enjoys doing in her free time and what advice she has for incoming graduate students.
Where is your hometown?
I am from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Why did you choose Kent State University?
I wanted to work with a professor in my department that is an expert in my research area.
What do you like most about living in/near Kent? Do you have a favorite local spot or activity?
I like that Kent has activities that allow me to let loose when I'm stressed, but the city is still quiet enough that it doesn't distract me from my studies. I love the Farmer's Market every Saturday! The produce is fresh, the food is fantastic, and it's a great way to start my weekend!
What is your favorite KSU memory?
I have lots of good memories! I try to make lots of friends and attend events with them.
What are some differences you've noticed in being a graduate student (expectations, pressures, visibility, etc.) than those of an undergraduate student?
You are expected to be responsible and accountable. When you enter into grad school as a grad student, it is expected that you enter the program with the actual intentions to pursue the degree (as opposed to undergrad), so there has to be that level of wanting to be there, learn, and engage with professors, peers, and taking part in out of class activities, competitors, etc.
What advice do you have for incoming graduate students?
Try to come into the program with the desire to learn, engage, and network. Being in grad school is a great opportunity to network through competitors, conferences, and GSO activities! I believe that stepping out of your comfort zone (whether it is to volunteer for some activity, president of a club, going to an event with a friend, entering a college-level competitor, etc.) will really make life as a grad student (be it 2+ years for a master's or 4-5+ years for doctorate) really wholesome and enjoyable!
Fun Facts About Me:
1. I'm passionate about cooking and I love experimenting with new recipes.
2. During the pandemic, I took up journaling - it has helped me stay positive and happy!
3. My full, legal name is Cheryl-lyn Ngoh Huei Yeen - where Cheryl-lyn (with the hyphen) is my first, Ngoh is my last, and Huei Yeen is my chinese name. It's quite common in Malaysia to have this kind of naming structure.