Alumni Spotlight: Wanning Wang

May 05, 2026 Written by CAS Communication Staff

Do you wonder what it’s like to attend the English Language Institute (ELI)?

Alumni Spotlights celebrate the journeys of former ELI students and the lasting impact their experiences have had on their academic, professional and personal lives. Learn more about the journeys of our former Chinese students on campus and at the ELI in today’s edition.


Wanning Wang
Accelerate-U Delaware Program

Alumni Spotlight: Wanning Wang

Where I Am From

Weifang, Shandong, China

Where I Am Now

I am a senior studying statistics at UD.

Where I'm going

I’d like to build a career that gives me flexibility and independence.

How has the Accelerate-U Delaware (A-UD) program supported your transition to college life in the U.S.?
This program was the perfect way for me to adjust to an English-speaking environment for the first time and transition into American college life. I truly appreciate its existence.

What was your favorite part of being in the A-UD program?
One of my favorite parts of the A-UD program was the supportive and welcoming environment. I never felt too pressured when my English wasn’t perfect or when I didn’t understand everything at first, and the professors were always kind and approachable. I also loved meeting friends from all around the world, which made the experience even more meaningful.

What was your biggest challenge in adjusting to a new culture and campus?
My biggest challenge was adapting to English as a second language. Conversations with locals often covered topics and cultural references I wasn’t familiar with, which sometimes made it difficult to fully engage and feel included.

What helped you overcome those challenges?
Be brave, step out of your comfort zone. Go attend on-campus events and talk to people! They’re always nicer than you think :)

What dreams or goals do you have for your future career?
My long-term goal is to build a career that gives me flexibility and independence. I aspire to eventually work for myself, using my skills to create something meaningful while having greater control over my time and direction.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience in the A-UD program or your time at UD?
As this is my final semester as an undergraduate at UD, I’ve truly enjoyed my time here. One of the most rewarding experiences has been connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and interests. I would encourage others to get involved as much as possible and make the most of their time on campus.

Learn more about Wanning Wang's experience on UD's campus in the UDaily article: "Favorable Outcomes."

"Be brave, step out of your comfort zone. Go attend on-campus events and talk to people! They’re always nicer than you think :)"

- Wanning Wang

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