Po San

University of Oregon, Art

Class of 2023

What is your major?

My major is Art with focuses in fibers, photography, and digital arts.

What did you think about college before you attended?

I thought it was going to be scary and overwhelming, especially starting in the midst of COVID-19!

How do you think being a first generation student has affected your college experience?

I definitely had a different background than many students attending college, but I didn’t let the differences stop me from pursuing everything I wanted.

What do you love about your college?

I love the school spirit that UO ducks have!

What does it mean to you to have been chosen as a Renaissance Scholar?

I felt like someone believed in me and this really carried me through the hard times. When college first began in 2020 (when I had no friends yet, my family was hours away, and all my peers and professors were through a screen), and to go into college knowing that I already have a support system made the transition easier.

What has been the most impactful experience or class during your time in college?

The most impactful class I took during my time in college was Digital Imaging (a digital arts class about color theory). In this course, I pushed myself by allowing myself to bring my ideas to light even when others didn’t understand the concept behind it and to experiment when I was scared that the outcome would end with me possibly earning a bad grade.

What advice would you give a high school student preparing for college?

If you want it, there’s going to be a way (whether that’s searching for an opportunity or creating one yourself)!

Any advice for students applying for the Renaissance Scholars Program?

Don’t let your insecurities stop you from achieving what you want (even if you don’t recognize your own potential, others will)!

Are you a Renaissance Scholar? Current scholars and alumni can share their stories here.