Li is in her third year of the Kinesiology PhD programme. Moving to Champaign-Urbana as an international student was a big step, but the welcoming community quickly made it feel like home. At UIUC, Li has found a place that celebrates diverse cultures while encouraging new perspectives creating an environment of inclusion and support.
Her PhD experience has been both challenging and rewarding. With guidance from Dr. Laura Rice and a supportive lab team, Li has grown as a researcher, mentor, and educator. "My work focuses on fall prevention and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, and I love how practical the programme is," she says. "Whether it’s collaborating with clinicians, designing community interventions, or mentoring undergrads, I’m constantly learning how to turn theory into real-world impact."
Li is equally appreciative of the programme’s interdisciplinary nature. From seminars to teaching opportunities and research collaborations, it’s been a chance to build skills beyond academics.
"The blend of academic rigour, mentorship, and community warmth has shaped me into a more confident and compassionate scholar," she says. "As an international student, I could not have found a better place for my professional and personal growth."