Plat Tejano (they/them) was born and raised in New Jersey, and they are currently a senior at Columbia University studying history and political science. Initially just broadly interested in international politics, they gained a specific interest in China last year, and since then they have taken coursework on modern Chinese history, their foreign relations, and their role in the global economy. Outside their academic interests, Plat also has experience with LGBTQ+ advocacy. They interned at the GLAAD Media Institute, and on campus they were on the planning board for Trans Awareness Week. And beside these research and advocacy interests, Plat also enjoys learning languages (namely Chinese and Tagalog), walking around New York City, and playing chess.