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Faculty and Staff Spotlight: Meet Ze (Wade) Chen, Academic Fellow

Ze (Wade) Chen

Wade Chen helps build bridges between VU and universities and colleges in China. He also supports VU’s international students and their families. Chen organizes the Office of International Student Affairs’ fun events such as the International Students Banquet, Lunar New Year celebrations, and a trip to the annual Indianapolis International Festival. He joined the VU staff in 2016. He graduated from the University of Kentucky with a master’s degree in hospitality and tourism management. Chen studied at Soochow University and earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering in his native China.

Describe your job responsibilities:

"I am committed to enhancing the academic, cultural, and social experiences of all international students by providing educational and social programming, immigration processing and advising, employment support, cross-cultural experiences, and community engagement activities. We connect international students with the people and resources that will help them make the most of their experience at VU."

What do you love about working at VU?

"Vincennes University currently serves as the home to 45 international students from 20 countries around the world! I am glad to see them studying and living here as their second home."

What advice would you give current or prospective students?

"I will tell our international students that your time at VU will be a great opportunity to meet people from other nations, learn about their traditions and way of life, and broaden your understanding of the world."

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

"I enjoy reading, playing basketball, and spending time with family."

Where would you love to travel next?

"New York City."

What is your favorite place in the world?

"My favorite place in the world is Southern Indiana because I met my wife and got married to her here in 2020. That means Southern Indiana is my home."

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