Ziwei Zheng
Tell our readers the meaning of your name, Ziwei, and the significance it holds for you.
Ziwei has three meanings in my language: 1) a purple flower, 2) north star, 3) symbol of royalty. I only go with the first meaning because a plant is persistent and strenuous.
You emigrated from China to the United States in 2008. What has been your experience in the past dozen or so years?
My experience is that the United States is still a land of opportunity with endless possibilities. The American people welcome immigrants who are willing to start a new life in a strange country. Everyone I have encountered has taught me something. Overall, my life has completely changed for the better because instead of staying in my comfort zone, I spent 12 years staying in the panic zone, which makes me more mature and confident. There are always impediments and hurdles to jump. However, there is always a rainbow once the storm subsides and the sun shines out through the clouds. I feel that Boyd is nourishing me to acquire the ability to fulfill my American Dream, and this experience has been the highlight of my life.
Why law school?
My mother kept on saying I was her eyes, ears, and mouthpiece when I was in China because it took her six years and seven legal professionals to obtain her legal status in the United States. To me, the legal profession is so noble, and it is beyond the reach of many immigrants. I have genuine desire to acquire knowledge and am willing to challenge to touch the sky. Thanks to Boyd and this wonderful country, I was able to advance and emerge upon my graduation to better serve the university and community that cultivated me.
What are you most anxious to do once life returns to normal?
I crave interactions with more legal professionals. I did not get to see any court actions in both Federal Bankruptcy Court and Judge Advocate General while externing there. I do not want to graduate without any observation in court. Education aside, I would love to travel, if all possible, maybe spend some time overseas.