Why did you choose Ohio State University for your graduate studies?

I chose Ohio State because of three reasons.
First, Ohio State has many departments that I could take advantage of, such as the Industrial System Engineering Department which the other design schools don't have. Second, ACCAD(Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design) is another reason that I want to come to learn more about the idea of computer animation and graphics. Also, I could have a TA, RA, or GA job to support myself instead of paying expensive tuition fees to those design Schools.

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What do you like about Columbus?

I think Columbus is more interesting than people think and what I expected. There is so much to discover believe it or not. If some people tell you Columbus is boring, don't believe them. They might not have any chance to explore Columbus. Honestly, I have spent two years here, but still there are so many things to see. I haven't finished my discovering yet.

What has been your experience in obtaining financial aid?

During the application process, I also stated that I would need financial aid, if I were accepted to the program. 5 months after my application, I received a letter of acceptance, along with the name of my advisor that the faculty assigned for me. I was so happy, I was accepted, but I did not have financial aid, like an associateship. Then I decided to call my advisor, Jim Kaufman, to explain to him that I really needed a graduate associateship. He was not there, so I left a message. 10 minutes later, my phone rang. It was him, my advisor, calling me from Ohio State. I was not expecting that. I was so surprised, I could not believe my eyes. He was calling overseas. Well, we talked. I explain to him the matter. One month later, I received an email from the department of design. They had two extra appointments, one of which they were holding for me. I cannot tell you how happy I was.

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What do you do as a graduate associate?

Right now I am a second year graduate student in the department of Industrial, Interior, and Visual Communication Design. In my first year, although I was a GTA, and I passed both written, and oral tests, I did not teach. The department needed some help in the model making lab, and computer lab. So I worked as a lab assistant in both labs. This year I am in charge of the Model Making Lab, and I give Mandatory Training to sophomores about the model shop, power tools, and of course safety.

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What is your specialization?

I am in the Product Design and Development Program. My MFA Thesis Project is on Pervasive Computing and Informational Appliances, which also includes wireless/wearable informational devices. Also, as an independent study, I work with Matt Lewis at ACCAD (Advanced Computing Center for Arts and Design) in west campus, on a project we call Wireless Virtual Reality Unit.

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What do you like about your graduate program at Ohio State?

It is pretty competitive. I like it. I enjoy learning new tools, like new 3D software packages, new design approaches, new research methodologies.

Why did you choose Ohio State University for your graduate studies?

Ohio State gave me a GA position which supports my tuition costs and living expenses. Also, it is a large university which has a wide variety of courses around the campus, which allows me to get more resources from other departments.

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Is it easy to get financial aid at Ohio State?

Yes, it was easy for me.
I got financial aid before I came here. It was also true that lots of graduate students can get funding in different ways.

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What do you like about Columbus?

It is a quiet city. Not too many problems for driving and parking. People are friendly to international students. Although it is not as big as New York or other big cities, Columbus is good enough for studying and living.