Stickers and Studies: My Rice Connection

#applying #academics

For Hong Lin, Brown '26, the journey to Rice began when he saw a QuestBridge flyer on a counselor’s resource table and received a surprise invitation in the mail. He started his College Prep Scholars application soon after, not realizing that this seemingly small step would mark a pivotal moment in his academic journey.

From Mailbox to Match

My family’s story is defined by resilience. We didn't have much, but we always took any opportunity that was available. So finding QuestBridge felt like destiny — after spotting a flyer on my counselor's table and then getting an invite in my mailbox, all signs were pointing there. I immediately began my College Prep Scholars application and started building my National College Match list.

Students holding up Owl hand signs
Great time volunteering at Owl Days Express and meeting prospective students!
Hong Lin and President DeRoches holding a Rice-themed Texas flag
Ran into President DesRoches at a game... perfect surprise! #RFND

During this time, we were going to Houston frequently to visit my brother, who had just started his residency there. We often drove past Rice University, and I loved that their mascot was an owl — one of my favorite animals! That coincidence, combined with everything else, made ranking Rice on my National College Match list an easy choice. When the Match email arrived, congratulating me on moving to the next stage, I was in disbelief. Matching here was truly the best thing that could've happened!

Hong Lin taking a selfie with the Owl mascot, holding up a Rice-themed Texas flag
I love owls, so being a Rice Owl was meant to be!
Hong Lin wearing a T-shirt of Rice mascot Sammy
Repping our adorable mascot Sammy!

Academics, Involvement and Culture of Care

Currently I am double majoring in Political Science and Social Policy Analysis, and applying that knowledge to GIS and geospatial analysis through a policy lens. Academics at Rice is special because I can take classes outside my majors and learn holistically.

I have an innate drive to help and contribute to Rice through creative works and service. I’ve been involved in almost every corner of campus, from Admin to Admission. Given my commitment, my friends say I’m the "most Rice person they have ever met." My key roles include: Rice Rally Club, Thresher sports cartoonist, Student Association, Doerr Institute Student Ambassador and GIS Student Assistant.

I signed up to volunteer for the Office of Admission after being inspired by my O-Week advisors. Since I never had the chance to tour Rice myself before matching, I wanted to be part of the support system that creates a Culture of Care for incoming students. My goal through my volunteerism is to help every visitor leave campus feeling more knowledgeable and inspired. This aligns perfectly with the QuestBridge network, which reminds us to look out for one another.

Two boys holding up stickers
Selling my custom mascot stickers at the Rice Archi Market.
Hong Lin in a golf cart with Sammy, the Rice mascot, and a female student
Embodying Rice's Culture of Care during a volunteer event!

Leaving a Legacy: My Sticker Business

QuestBridge also gave me the inspiration to start my Sammy sticker business. Influenced by my O-Week coordinator, I began creating cute stickers of our mascot based on Rice memes and activities. Though I wouldn't consider myself an entrepreneur, I found an audience and accomplished everything I wanted — showing my appreciation for THE best college mascot! From selling at dozens of Archi Markets to shipping stickers globally, I've created over 50 designs in total. These stickers symbolize that I am happily "stuck on Rice!"

My final advice is simple: Don't be afraid to take the leap. QuestBridge opened doors I never expected, letting me reconnect with my brother and find my community in Houston. If you're considering it, pursue that chance!

-Hong Lin, Brown ‘26 (Published on 10/28/2025)

Hong Lin outside, wearing a headband that says "Moody X-Fest"
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