Jenny Chung
Can you tell me your year, majors/minors, and pronouns?
My name is Jenny, and I go by she/her pronouns. I am a first-year student studying cognitive science and data science.
Where are you from?
I'm from San Jose, California, but I was born in Seoul, South Korea!
Which country do you prefer, and why?
Right now, as a student, I prefer living in the Bay Area, probably because I have lived in the United States for a while. But, I do want to live in Korea as an adult because it is very interesting. AND TATTOO artists!
I'm interested in your majors and your minors. How did you decide to study those?
For cognitive science, I've been really interested in studying the mind and psychology all throughout my years in school. But I specifically decided to pursue cognitive science after getting to know what the major is consistent with. I am interested in a lot of things, such as philosophy, artificial intelligence, technology, and the mind. So when I discovered cognitive science covered all these fields, I was excited. As for data science, I didn't know I was going to do data science until I joined SAAS. After surrounding myself with SAASies who are passionate and experienced in data science, I have discovered a lot of correlation between data science and cognitive science, and thought it would be interesting to pursue.
Do you have any hobbies or are you into any books or TV shows?
I like making things. I wouldn't consider myself to be an artsy person, but I think the things I like to do are art related. I like to do my nails, make my own rings, and I just became a barista at SODOI, so I like making and decorating the coffee! I also enjoy listening to music and making playlists for different occasions. Sometimes I would like to sit in the library and make playlists instead of doing work.
What is your favorite experience in SAAS?
My first retreat. I think it was especially enjoyable because it was my first bonding experience with my fellow SAASies. I remember stargazing with Lily, boating with Gizell and Ruilin, and seeing how actually tight-knit the SAAS community is.
What is your favorite big little moment in SAAS?
I believe my favorite moment would have to be the big little reveal itself. I walked into the event with a strong hunch about who my big would be, and I had really hoped that I was right. I distinctly recall sitting there with Manasvi by my side as we were instructed to examine a drawing created by another SAASie depicting our bigs. To my surprise, Manasvi received the description that matched Kelly, and the moment I read the description for Kelly, I knew she was my big. It was a funny coincidence, and I couldn't contain my excitement. The whole situation was just really funny, and I was really excited to have Kelly as my big.
How would your life be different if you had never joined SAAS?
I would be so sad right now. Because joining SAAS last semester was lowkey the best thing that could have happened to me. Last semester is when I met most of my close friends that I have right now, and now it gives me a sense of community at this big university. Without SAAS, I definitely would have fewer opportunities to get to know people and would be really lonely right now. I am so glad I joined SAAS or I would have never met Ruilin, [Scott], or Lily, who are some of my closest friends right now.
What's your favorite spot on campus to study at?
I have been jumping around everywhere. I officially quit Moffit. I have been going to Kresge a lot. But as to my favorite spot, I have to say it is Doe during sunset. You know how there are these really big glass windows? I think Berkeley sunsets are really pretty and the sunlight just travels into the room is just so perfect. It is my favorite place to write my essays.
Do you have any study spot recommendations?
Whenever I have a class at Soda Hall, since the trek to Soda is really long from Southside, I try to make the trip more bearable by going to the building early and just kind of chilling there.
What is your dream job?
Oh my god. Honestly, I am very uncertain about where my future will be. But that is okay. Steady income, a comfortable work environment, and I would also want to be able to make some kind of ethical and positive difference to the tech industry!
What is your biggest pet peeve?
I hate not knowing where my stuff is. Even when my space is messy, I personally know where everything is and where I personally store it. I hate having my stuff move around without knowing, and I wish I had the Harry Potter spell, where I can summon whatever I want. I have such a distinct personality!
What is your spirit animal?
A whale. I like the reeaalllly big whale. Like the ones that have been around since 10 BCE. If reincarnated into my next life, I want to be a whale. Actually, maybe I want to be a baby whale. And then I will grow into an adult whale. I will be large. I think they're so peaceful when I watch them. Whales are my favorite animal ever since I watched a whale documentary. They're so nice and intelligent, with a sense of amazing and familial community. Imagine being that big and just floating.