“Asking Stanford” is a series of small stories from Stanford students, each of which comes together to highlight the diversity of experiences and perspectives on campus.

I’ve learned a lot from my friend Audrey. I cherish every time I get to hear a little more of her life story. Her outlook on life, and how she navigates all that life throws at her, does so much to inform how I can best live my life. There certainly is a futility to a lot of things in life, but the beauty of it all is on full display when you choose to do good and to be that uplifting influence in other peoples’ lives to begin with. Being nearly a year into my academic suspension journey, I admire Audrey more than I ever have before. Thanks to her, I know a little more about how to live a good life. – Sebastian Strawser

My two older sisters! One is a lawyer and the other is a doctor, and they continually inspire me with their wisdom, kindness, humor and warmth. Despite our 10- and eight-year age gap, we remain each other’s closest friends. Throughout every step of my life, they have always offered their guidance and support, and in turn, I try my best to return the favor and be a helpful younger sister. I couldn’t ask for two better role models!  – Helen Katz

My lab’s PI (principal investigator) is someone I deeply admire. A post-doc in our lab describes her as a “girl boss,” but to me, she’s more. Dr. Roxana Daneshjou somehow balances being a new mother and full-time researcher while maintaining an extraordinary presence as a mentor and human being. Her leadership style combines technical drive with genuine compassion. What impresses me most is how she’s dismantled the competitive atmosphere often found in research settings, showing that scientific progress doesn’t have to feel zero-sum. Thanks to her, I’ve had the opportunity to love and learn a little bit more. – Sonnet Xu 

One of the most important women in my life is my mother. Aside from birthing and keeping me alive all these years, she has maintained a loving and supportive household despite the numerous personal, professional, and familial challenges — including a troublesome son — thrown her way. What’s more, hearing her life story gives me immense respect for her as a person. She fought and studied her way from rural China to the city, from the city to Canada, and from Canada to the United States — all to give her children a better life. Despite having the odds stacked against her, she persevered and found immense academic and professional success as an electrical engineering professor and still found time to give her kids boundless love, care, and support. Love you mom! – Eric Cui