Annabella Tian

Contact

phoeniix@seas.upenn.edu

Ask Me About…

A unique part of my experience has been the opportunity to study abroad in both Asia and Europe, each offering a distinctly different perspective on the world. In Singapore, I connected more deeply with my cultural roots, surrounded by the rich Chinese heritage present in the country. Through the structured GRIP program, I was matched with a research project before I even arrived. Additionally, I was part of a cohort of primarily American students, which provided a more comfortable, supportive environment as we explored a new country together.
In contrast, my semester abroad at ETH Zurich has challenged me to navigate a less familiar setting—both culturally and academically. With a new language, daily commutes, and a more hands-off academic approach, ETH has pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I also have held more autonomy in this study abroad, which made me anxious at times, but has given me the opportunity to meet other students from all over the world and study subjects beyond engineering disciplines.
These two contrasting experiences have broadened my worldview in different ways and taught me how to adapt across cultures, connect with people from all backgrounds, and step confidently into the unfamiliar.

My Experience Abroad

Through the GRIP experience in Singapore, I had my first exposure to research at the university level. While I ultimately decided not to pursue a career in academia, I credit GRIP with helping me reach that conclusion. Although I appreciated the experience, I realized that research in computer science often feels too abstract and distant from real-world impact, especially compared to the fast-paced, hands-on nature of industry work.
Similarly, my time at ETH Zurich has given me a new appreciation for the more interactive, project-based approach at Penn and many U.S. universities. I’ve enjoyed the autonomy of ETH’s academic system—where attendance is optional and most learning happens independently before exams—and I’ve also found the coursework here to be rigorous and intellectually rewarding. The classes are fast-paced, taught by world-class professors, and often tie into cutting-edge research that is shaping the future of the field.
Together, these experiences have helped me better understand what kind of environments I thrive in and where I find the most fulfillment. While I may not pursue research long-term, I’ve gained a deeper respect for the role it plays in driving innovation—and I’m more excited than ever to be part of the industry that brings these ideas to life.

Other Highlights

• Hawker Centres in Singapore. I had some of the best food at the hawker centres for some of the best prices. The food in Singapore was a great fusion of food from across Asia and has certainly raised my bar for food.
• Night Biking in Singapore. With the crazy humidity and heat in Singapore, my friends and I decided to rent bikes and ride around the Marina Bay in Singapore. Even though half of us weren’t the best at biking, it was amazing to see some of the most iconic views of Singapore together at night.
• ASVZ Classes at ETH. At ETH, they have free workout classes as a part of the student gym membership. Through this, my friends and I could sign up for classes ranging from pilates to aerial yoga to hip hop dance to kick boxing. It has been a really great way to meet friends and try new activities at the same time.
• Taking the train in Switzerland. Swiss trains are some of the best in the world (and most expensive) and I’ve loved the convenience of traveling around Switzerland and Europe. Through this, I’ve had great day trips with friends and family while also enjoying the views along the way.
• Cooking with friends in Switzerland. Given the high prices in Zurich, my friends and I usually cook on a daily basis. This has allowed me to meet new people, connect with friends, and try dishes from around the world, all while enjoying a delicious meal!