Outside the Classroom

Outside of BME, I am an avid athlete and musician. I run track as a middle-distance runner for Cornell Running Club, and I have set club records for 400m, 500m, 600m, 800m, and 1000m. In high school, I played soccer for FC Westchester as a defender in the MLS Next league. Additionally, I made all-state and all-county bands as a trumpet player and performed piano regularly at my church.

I love to read and write! Some of my favorite books include the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams), Soccer Against the Enemy (Simon Kuper), and Around the World in 80 Days (Jules Verne). I also write satire for the Cornell Lunatic, where I spend hours gleefully poking fun at everyone and everything I can think of. 

As the son of a Dutch father and an Indonesian mother who are both first-generation immigrants, I have an immense curiosity for exploring the different cultures of the world. Since I was born, I have traveled to the Europe and Asia every year to visit extended family. I have visited 18 countries so far, and I hope to get that number much higher in the future. Learning about the traditions, histories, and values of diverse nations is one of the most eye-opening things I do.  

However, my most meaningful activity is volunteering at the Cancer Resource Center of the Finger Lakes. During my shifts, I provide food, water, blankets, and conversation to patients undergoing chemotherapy. I have made many connections with patients, and it brings me so much happiness!