From Vancouver to Interlochen: Millie Liu’s cross-cultural friendships help her thrive at Arts Academy
Liu chats about what made her adjustment process easier, how she’s explored her songwriting talents, and what she’s doing to help incoming international students.
Millie Liu balances a unique combination of cultural identities. Born in Canada, she is the daughter of first-generation Chinese immigrants. A gifted singer-songwriter, Liu left Canada her freshman year of high school to attend Interlochen Arts Academy. Now, she’s a senior and helping other international students adjust to life in a new country. We caught up with her about her Arts Academy experience, what she misses most about home, and her advice for prospective students.
New school, new friendships, and new opportunities
Liu’s love for songwriting originated in eighth grade, when she collaborated with some of her friends to write a new anthem for her school. The experience inspired her and she soon found herself writing songs constantly. When she and her parents researched arts schools, Interlochen came out on top—so she took the plunge and applied. Her original songs caught the attention of Interlochen’s Admission team, and she got in for her freshman year of high school.
Liu says she didn’t experience much of a culture shock on coming to Interlochen, but it was an adjustment in other ways.
“I had to adjust to a high school environment in general,” she says. “Plus, I had to get used to being away from my family and the comfort of my home.”
Now a senior, Liu still misses her favorite Chinese foods—especially yuzu tofu, a marinated dish with tofu and eggs—plus the mountains, water, and big-city vibe of Vancouver. But the adjustment process didn’t take long, mostly thanks to the friends she’s made.
“ I made a lot of friends who are Chinese-American students, people who could relate to my identity. That really helped because it made me feel like I wasn't alone. I also made friends with fellow Canadians. We're all from different parts of Canada and can relate to the diversity of our country.”
She received consistent support from her instructors and fellow students in her major.
“My songwriting instructors helped me as well,” she says. “They're so open-minded, loving, and genuinely caring. And everyone in my major was very supportive and welcoming. I connected with people from many different cultures.”
Helping fellow international students
As Liu became more comfortable with her new life at Arts Academy, she felt ready to help other students make the transition. For the past two years, she has served as an international liaison, helping new students move in and adjust to the boarding school environment. She has also helped out at Interlochen’s annual International Food Fair, and found ways to share her unique blend of cultures with the whole student body.
“ Last year I performed a song in Cantonese with an all-Asian band at a community meeting,” she says.
Liu’s work with other students at Arts Academy has informed her goals for the future. Although she doesn’t have definite plans yet, she’s excited to continue pursuing the arts and building community.
“ I really like working with people and collaborating,” she says. “My art and my songwriting are my outlets to communicate with others.”
When asked what her advice would be to incoming international students, Liu encourages them to lean into Interlochen’s diverse community and embrace their uniqueness.
“It might take a little bit, but there will always be people who would love to be your friend,” she says. “If you ask other students for help, they would love to show you around or share a part of their culture with you. You don’t have to worry about fitting in because, in a way, nobody fits in here—and that’s why everyone fits in.”
Reflecting on her experience, Liu says she “wouldn’t change it.”
“I love Interlochen and it has made me grow and learn so much,” she says. “I'm very grateful to be here.”
16% of Arts Academy students are international students. Learn more about becoming an international student at Arts Academy.
