Grace Wheeler

Grace Wheeler participated in 2024 CLS Spark Chinese hosted by the Dalian University of Technology. Grace is studying political science and communication studies at Utah State University, where she serves as Utah State University Student Association Chief of Staff. She hopes to pursue a career that combines her passion for policy and people. 

Why Chinese? 

I’ve always been fascinated with Chinese characters, especially after spending time studying the Korean alphabet! As a political science major, I also enjoy learning about Chinese history and politics. I wanted to be able to expand on this by learning about Chinese culture. 

A Favorite Idiom  

I loved learning about family titles in Mandarin. In English, there is only one word for aunt or grandma. I love that in Mandarin, you never have to ask “is that your mom’s side or your dad’s!” I think the way you speak about family says a lot about Chinese culture. 

Career Goals 

I would love to work somewhere that combines my passions for policy and communication. Learning languages has always been a great way to tie these interests together. Knowing some Mandarin has increased my understanding and background of Chinese relations and politics. 

CLS’s Impact 

CLS has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career. The program not only pushed me to grow personally, but helped me develop a crucial professional skill, language proficiency. The beauty of CLS Spark is that you can do so from the comfort of your own home. I was able to move from not knowing any Mandarin to intermediate low in one summer without ever leaving my small hometown in Northern Utah.