Can you tell us about yourself and why you chose Franklin?
I am Qiwen Lin, from Shanghai, China. I’m pursuing a combined major in Political Science and Economics, with an expected graduation in May 2026. I am multilingual—I speak Chinese, English, French, and Italian. I have a strong interest in classical music and have been playing the piano since kindergarten. I chose Franklin because it’s in Switzerland, one of the most beautiful and safe countries in the world. I was also drawn to the academic travel program and its mission of educating global citizens.
What has been your favorite experience at Franklin so far?
This is really hard to say. I enjoy every event at Franklin, like Latin Night, International Night, academic travels, Honors Society conversations, and more. The most recent highlight was when my summer session professor, Dr. Hrisanta Trebici-Marin, took our class to LAC for a concert by the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kožená, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle. Franklin offers many opportunities to explore the world’s diversity through its amazing faculty and students. I am grateful for every chance I’ve had—and will have—to meet and befriend people from different parts of the world. It has been enriching and is definitely the top reason why I love Franklin.
How have your classes and professors at Franklin helped you grow academically and personally?
A lot! Although Franklin is small, it does a great job offering diverse course options, which have opened my eyes. Special mention goes to Academic Travel. Sometimes, professors take students out for on-site learning experiences during regular weeks. Even in class, professors and classmates share personal experiences and stories from different countries and periods. I feel that I am not only learning from textbooks but truly from the world around me and beyond. For me, attending classes at Franklin is far more than just earning a degree; it’s a precious experience that broadens my horizons and nurtures my understanding of the world’s diversity and complexity.
Are you part of any clubs or activities on campus? How have they made your time at Franklin better?
Most club meetings and activities are open to every student. You don’t need to be a member to join the events. The Resident Assistants (RAs) and Orientation Mentors (OMs) plan events and activities throughout the year for the whole school, and there are always flyers from the Political Discourse Society, Debate Club, and Movie Club around campus and on Instagram. I was an OM myself, so I organized day trips to Milan and Lucerne and took students to USI for Chinese festival events, which I also helped organize. Besides that, I attend almost every cultural event and volunteer whenever I have time. For instance, I made a Chinese dish for International Night last semester. I am also the secretary for the Debate Club and will be a member of the executive board for the Honors Society. By attending events, I have learned a lot about other cultures and met many students. As an organizer, I have developed professional skills, built stronger friendships, and contributed to maintaining Franklin’s multicultural environment.
Can you share a memorable moment or achievement you've had at Franklin?
I would say being an OM and creating a great vibe with my OM partner, Ghala Ashoor, for our orientation group is definitely a memorable moment. Seeing our mentees remain friends with each other—and with us—at the end of orientation was incredibly rewarding.
What are your future goals, and how is Franklin helping you reach them?
In the near future, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in Geneva after Franklin. I’m considering the Graduate Institute, the Geneva School of Diplomacy and International Relations, and the University of Geneva. Currently, I’m a research assistant for professors in Political Science and Political Economy, which exposes me to interesting topics beyond my courses and gives me a glimpse into the academic world, preparing me for graduate studies. Additionally, having multiple responsibilities on campus has given me a lot of work experience, making me more mature and better at multitasking and time management. Franklin also offers a wide range of events and activities, ensuring that I’m not just a bookworm. The Office of Student Life sponsored events, "Meet the Manager" events, guest lectures on various topics, and the annual Eurovision screening are all precious opportunities and experiences that I cherish.
Do you have any advice for students thinking about coming to Franklin?
Be open-minded, be respectful, and don’t be afraid of cultural differences or asking questions. This is what Franklin is about—what educating global citizens stands for. Push yourself to attend events, and you’ll always gain more than you expect!