Mestenhauser Student Award

Dongting Cai (蔡东廷) is an international student from China pursuing a double major in Communication, Media & Rhetoric and Computer Science, with minors in Data Science and Statistics at the University of Minnesota Morris. Throughout his academic career, Dongting has demonstrated a strong commitment to intercultural understanding and student leadership. He has served in several leadership roles, including as a Community Advisor for the Office of Residential Life, an International Orientation Leader, and an International First Year Mentor for the International Student Programs Office. He also applies his communication skills as a Social Media Assistant for International Student Programs and the Student Success Center, creating informational content to help new international students navigate their transition to the University. Additionally, Dongting serves as the President of the International Student Association at UMM, where he works to promote cultural sensitivity, connect domestic and international students, and create a supportive community for students away from their home countries. 

Passionate about navigating intercultural aspects in academic projects, Dongting has conducted research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) at the University of Minnesota. His work, "The Impact of Misunderstandings in the Communication Process as Emojis in Different Groups," will be presented at UM Morris's Undergraduate Research Symposium. Furthermore, his Sustainable Development Learning Experience Diary will soon be displayed there, showcasing his study journey in Germany as part of the College of Food and Agricultural Sciences (CFANS) overseas program in the Twin Cities. Dongting was recognized last year as a recipient of the UM System Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity (SEED) Award.