Unconventional Students at Rice 2021: Norman Zheng finds balance

When Norman Zheng ’21 came to Rice he wanted to be pre-med, but he did not think there would be hands-on experience in his first year.  

“I saw a flyer on the wall for the EMS class my freshman year, and I applied,” Zheng said. “And I took it just because you can ride in an ambulance, I thought that was really cool.”

The freshman-year experience with Rice EMS would lead to four years of involvement.  Zheng is now on the leadership team and said, “I think one of my happiest moments was actually being handed my badge that I carry around now on my belt when I’m on duty.”

The bioengineering and religion double major has found happiness outside of the classroom as well.  

“Rice has been able to provide me with a very balanced life, the college life and the rec centers, just a great environment to thrive and to grow, especially in this important time in my life and what will likely determine how the rest of it will begin,” he said.