Jonathan Yuen
Hometown: Manalapan, NJ
University: University of Illinois
Major: Computer Engineering
BIOGRAPHY
Hi everyone! My name is Jonathan Yuen, and I am a senior studying Computer Engineering at UIUC. My passion lies at the intersection of healthcare and technology, and I'm excited to pursue this field after graduation. For the past 4 years, I've been involved with Illini 4000, initially as a member of the cancelled 2020 ride, and for the past 2 years, I've served as the Director of Information. Besides academics and work, you'll find me running, playing the guitar and piano, performing Chinese yo-yo, exploring the outdoors, and cooking with my friends. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be on the 2023 Bike America Team, where I can contribute to the fight against cancer in honor of my dad.
PERSONAL STATEMENT
As a seventh-grader, I was ignorant of the realities of cancer until my mother was diagnosed with a recurrence of breast cancer. Witnessing her struggle through numerous chemotherapy sessions brought to light the physical, emotional, and mental toll that cancer takes on a person. When I began my studies at the University of Illinois, my goal was to participate in the 2020 ride in honor of my mother. However, the pandemic struck, and my father was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, making it difficult for my family to cope. I am determined to dedicate my upcoming ride to my father's brave ongoing fight, as well as to my mother and the rest of my family, who have supported us through this difficult time. As a longtime member and board member of Illini4000, I am committed to using my experience to help raise awareness and funds for cancer research.