For Junfei Liu, a senior at CU Denver's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences majoring in communication with minors in economics and mathematics, the path to higher education wasn’t just about academics. It was about breaking barriers, embracing new cultures, and building a foundation for a future brimming with possibility. Her story reflects the essence of CU Denver: a place where learners from all backgrounds find the support, opportunities, and inspiration to thrive.
Discovering CU Denver: A Dream in the Making
Junfei’s journey began in Beijing, China, where the pressure of the national college entrance exams loomed large. “It’s super competitive,” Junfei explains, reflecting on the rigorous process thousands of students navigate. But her path took a turn when she discovered the International College Beijing (ICB) program, a collaboration between CU Denver and her home country.
Drawn by her lifelong fascination with U.S. culture—sparked by Hollywood movies and a childhood trip to the States—Junfei saw the ICB program as her opportunity to combine academic excellence with cultural exploration. “I’ve always dreamed of studying in the United States, and CU Denver made that possible,” she says. The ICB program not only offered her an internationally recognized degree but also the chance to experience two distinct learning environments.
Embracing Change: Adjusting to Life in Denver
For many international students, the transition to a new country and culture can be daunting, and Junfei was no exception. “It was a long process to adjust,” she recalls, reflecting on her initial experiences in Denver. From navigating the language barrier to adapting to cultural nuances—like understanding how to respond to a simple “How are you?”—the challenges were real but not insurmountable.
One thing that made a significant difference? CU Denver’s welcoming community. “The professors, the students, even the city itself—it all felt supportive,” she says. Junfei also credits her involvement in clubs, like joining the Alpha Phi sorority, for helping her find her footing. “Being part of a community like that helped me make friends and improve my English,” she shares. “It made Denver feel like home.”
The Power of Passion: Choosing Communication
Choosing her major was a deeply personal decision for Junfei. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became fascinated by the way people stayed connected through social media. “I realized how powerful communication can be,” she says. “It’s not just about talking; it’s about creating connections and telling stories that matter.”
Her passion for communication has since flourished at CU Denver, where hands-on learning and practical experiences have equipped her with the skills to succeed. Junfei has paired her communication studies with minors in economics and mathematics—a combination that not only reflects her diverse interests but also prepares her for a future in fields like data science and marketing. “I love how I can blend everything I’ve learned into something meaningful,” she says.
Making a Real-World Impact
Junfei’s curiosity and ambition have led her to remarkable opportunities, including contributing to research on disparities in medical accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I wanted to explore healthcare disparities and learn from experts,” she explains. Through persistence and initiative, she connected with a professor at Brown University, who invited her to collaborate on a research project.
The experience was transformative. “It taught me to just go for it,” Junfei says. “Sometimes, all it takes is an email or a conversation to open doors you didn’t even know existed.” Her advice to fellow students? “Don’t be afraid to try. Even if you fail, you learn—and that’s invaluable.”
“Don’t be afraid to try. Even if you fail, you learn—and that’s invaluable,” Junfei says.
Tips for Future International Students
As someone who has navigated the complexities of studying abroad, Junfei is quick to offer advice to others. “Just do it,” she says with a laugh, echoing her mantra of courage and perseverance. But her tips don’t stop there:
Embrace Opportunities: “College is full of resources—use them! Whether it’s the Career Center, clubs, or research opportunities, there’s so much out there waiting for you.”
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: “It’s scary at first, but pushing yourself to try new things helps you grow in ways you never imagined.”
Ask for Help: “Professors at CU Denver are incredibly supportive. Don’t hesitate to ask them for guidance, whether it’s for a recommendation letter or advice on your next steps.”
Junfei’s own experiences, from joining a sorority to seeking mentorship from faculty, illustrate how taking initiative can lead to life-changing results.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter 
As Junfei prepares to graduate, her future is as dynamic and promising as her time at CU Denver. With a full-time job lined up and plans to pursue graduate studies, she’s ready to take on the world. “I’m currently applying to graduate schools, including the University of Chicago, Harvard, and Yale,” she shares. Her areas of interest—public policy and marketing—reflect her commitment to making an impact, whether through research, strategy, or storytelling.
The foundation she’s built at CU Denver has given her the confidence to dream big and the skills to make those dreams a reality. “This university has taught me so much—not just academically, but about myself,” she says. “I feel ready for whatever comes next.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
Junfei Liu’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and the power of education to transform lives. Her journey from Beijing to Denver—and the countless moments in between—serves as a testament to what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.
At CU Denver, we believe in creating an inclusive community where every student, regardless of their background, can find their moment. For Junfei, that moment has turned into a lifetime of possibilities. And for the students who will follow in her footsteps, her advice rings clear: “Challenge yourself. You never know how amazing you are until you try."
Junfei is actively seeking collaboration and job opportunities in the Marketing field. Feel free to connect with her on LinkedIn.
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