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The O-Week Coordinators

 

We are here entirely to answer your questions and to ensure that you have a smooth transition to life in college, at Rice and especially at Will Rice! Feel free to let us know anything via wrcoweek@gmail.com. 

Cynthia Bau
Junior - Sociology + History - New York, New York
 

Cynthia Bau is that person you’re going to brag about knowing while she still had time for us peasants. Cynthia is a History and Sociology double major with probable plans to go to law school and definite plans to change the world. Outside of academics, you can find Cynthia working at the Thresher office helping the school newspaper earn that cash as the Advertisement Manager, or teaching us what it means to lead as the Director of the Gateway Study of Leadership. The dedication that Cynthia brings to everything she does is epitomized by her literally sacrificing her body (ask her about her ACL surgery) for the glory of the Will Rice Powderpuff team. This same dedication applies to Cynthia’s friendships, and you’ll be hard pressed to find a more loyal and caring friend. She has been known to leave encouraging notes before big tests and to bring you that much needed cupcake in stressful times. This tiny adorable girl was born and raised in Queens, and you’ll probably get a glimpse of her fiery personality when she “goes New York.” Don’t let Cynthia’s small stature fool you though, this girl has a mighty appetite and loves nothing more than exploring Houston for new restaurants and tasty treats. Rest assured knowing that your O-Week is in good hands and get ready for an amazing week!

 

 - Kiara Sanchez, WRC ‘16 + 

Michelle Huang, WRC ‘16

Derek Brown
Junior - Psychology + Policy Studies - Friendswood, Texas

 

He lives vicariously through himself.  If he was to pat you on the back, you would list it on your resume.  He once taught a German shepherd to bark in Chinese.  He has inside jokes with people he’s never met.  He is the most interesting man in the world.  And he doesn’t even hold a candle to Derek Brown.  

 

Hailing from the suburbs of Houston, this jack-of-all-trades Psychology major is your go to guy for anything; you name it, he can do it.  Seriously, he has done it all.  Got a sweet tooth? Allow him to whip up some of his delicious baked goods.  Want to go exploring? This die-hard foodie can show you all the best restaurants in town.  Fan of the arts? Let him sweep you off your feet with melodic tunes with his piano skills.  Having a bad day? Get ready to laugh your heart out with one of his cheesy jokes.

 

Don’t let that fool you.  Even with all of his accomplishments and skills, Derek is still one of the most humble and unwaveringly loyal people you’ll ever meet. No matter what the situation, Derek is always willing to help.  So get ready for the best week of your lives!  You’re guaranteed a good time. 

 

- Linda Nguyen, WRC ‘15

Valeda Yong
Senior - Psychology - Boca Raton, Florida

 

 

Your bright and bubbly O-Week coordinator, Valeda Yong, hails from sunny Boca Raton, Florida. She is actually going into her final year at Rice, so cherish your time with her this year! This pre-med psych major aspires to be a doctor, or specifically an OB-GYN, and can often be found hanging out in Club Fondy or ordering her usual at Coffeehouse before a long night of studying. She is one of the happiest people at Will Rice and will always greet you with a smile, no matter how stressed she is. Despite her busy schedule, she always finds time for everybody and will stop to talk to every person she knows (believe me, it takes forever to travel across campus with her - she knows a tonnnnnn of people). Don’t be frightened by her unusual eating habits - this girl can eat an absurd amount of bread, pasta, sunflower seeds, and cheese. She is basically on an all-carb diet. Even her own parents, who are originally from China, believe she must be adopted and “born to a gigantic Italian family” (direct quote!). But these are the things that make Valeda such a lovable person, and you’re lucky to have her guiding you through your first year at Rice. She is somebody you can really count on, and she is the best person to introduce you to your family at Will Rice. O-Week 2014 is going be amazing with Valeda as your coordinator, so get excited!

 

- Christina Katsampes, WRC ‘14

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