In a groundbreaking achievement for Georgia Tech, Jason Juang has been named the first undergraduate student from the institution to receive the prestigious Luce Scholarship. This accomplishment not only highlights Juang's dedication to addressing global challenges but also underscores Georgia Tech's commitment to fostering academic excellence and global engagement. 

The Luce Scholars Program, established in 1974, is a highly competitive fellowship that provides early-career leaders with immersive experiences in Asia. Its aim is to strengthen relationships across borders by offering young Americans opportunities to deepen their understanding of Asian countries, cultures, and peoples. Each year, 18 scholars are selected for this transformative experience, which includes stipends, language training, and professional placements tailored to individual interests and career goals. 

For Juang, set to graduate in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), the Luce Scholarship represents an unparalleled opportunity to pursue his passion for addressing climate change on an international scale. His long-term goal "to empower science-based policy decisions in mitigating the effects of climate change by reducing our carbon emissions," underscores his commitment to effecting meaningful change in the world. 

I'm particularly intrigued by Asia's diverse perspectives on climate vulnerability, modernization, and industrial development. In immersing myself in Asian communities, I hope to deepen my insights into global climate issues and facilitate cross-cultural dialogues essential for devising sustainable solutions worldwide. 

Juang's enthusiasm for this venture is palpable as he shares his hopes for the upcoming year spent living and working in Asia. "My Luce year presents an opportunity to solidify my career path and understand where my interests in climate, business, and research intersect with current global issues," he says. "Moreover, it's a chance for personal growth—to challenge myself by immersing in a culture and language that are foreign to me." 

As an Asian American, Juang also seeks to gain a deeper understanding of Asia from a non-Western perspective. "I feel that I only have limited insight on Asian society based on what I've learned growing up in a Taiwanese American household," he reflects. "Through this experience, I hope to gain more profound insights into the culture, society, and people of a particular Asian country." 

Integral to Juang's successful application was the support he received from Karen Mura, the Prestigious Fellowships Advisor for Georgia Tech's Pre-Graduate and Pre-Professional (PGPP) Advising program. Mura provided invaluable guidance throughout the application process, meticulously reviewing Juang's essays and ensuring a coherent narrative that effectively communicated his aspirations and qualifications. 

Karen's support was instrumental in my application for the Luce Scholarship. Her feedback helped refine my essays, and her dedication, including meeting with me across time zones during my exchange program in Australia, boosted my confidence in the application process.

The Luce Scholarship not only represents a significant milestone in Juang's academic journey but also exemplifies Georgia Tech's commitment to fostering global citizenship and leadership among its students. As Juang prepares to embark on this transformative experience, he carries with him the knowledge, skills, and support system necessary to make a meaningful impact on the world stage. 

Through initiatives like the Luce Scholars Program and dedicated mentors like Karen Mura, Georgia Tech continues to empower students like Jason Juang to pursue their passions, broaden their horizons, and effect positive change in the world.