Hao Tan of Sherwood, Ore., is one of 5,000 new students arriving on campus this fall. He's also one of four Stamps Leadership Scholars, and a student in the Robert D. Clark Honors College. His is the first in a series of profiles we'll feature on Around the O this fall. 

HIGH SCHOOL AND HOMETOWN: Sherwood High School, Sherwood, Oregon

MY BIGGEST ACADEMIC ACCOMPLISHMENT SO FAR: Being named a National Merit Finalist

MY ACADEMIC INTERESTS INCLUDE: Math, Chemistry, Biology, and Social Studies.

WHAT I LIKE TO DO FOR FUN: Netflix marathons and swimming

PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW: That I was actually born in China and I’m a boss at using chopsticks.

THE ONE THING I’M MOST NERVOUS ABOUT: Doing my own laundry.

THE ONE THING I’M MOST EXCITED ABOUT:  The freedom of college life.

I CHOSE OREGON BECAUSE: It’s a safe and chill place to study. I’m familiar with campus and I enjoy the local culture. UO’s a good fit for me.

SCHOLARSHIPS I'VE RECEIVED INCLUDE: Stamps Leadership Scholarship, Intel Scholarship for Employees’ Children;  University of Oregon’s National Merit Finalist award

WHEN I THINK OF OREGON: I think of football — shout out to Jordan Kurahara, No. 98, Sherwood High School graduate.

THE ONE KEY PIECE OF RAIN GEAR I MUST BRING TO CAMPUS: None, real Oregonians don't use rain gear. Getting soaked daily builds character.

THE THING ABOUT COLLEGE I'M MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IS: Meeting new people and exploring what the university has to offer.

Click here to see more University of Oregon freshman profiles