2025 Homecoming Court Member Tenzin Gyaldatsang
Tenzin Gyaldatsang, a political science senior, is one of eight students on the 2025 Homecoming Court. Homecoming Royalty Court members serve as student ambassadors throughout Homecoming Week, October 6-11, representing the University of Minnesota at events. Students chosen for the Homecoming Court exemplify what it means to be a Gopher. Two students who best embody Gopher pride will be crowned the 2025 Homecoming Royals and each awarded a $1,000 scholarship at the Homecoming football game on October 11.
Learn more about Tenzin's experience at the University of Minnesota and how he embodies Gopher pride in the below Q&A.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
The reason I chose political science as a major stems from my background. Growing up as a first-generation student and the son of Tibetan refugees, I understand firsthand how important governance and justice are to the world. Political science offers the tools, experience, and connections that will help me prepare for a career in the professional world. I chose the University of Minnesota because I am local, born and raised in Minnesota. The community here has been great to me and I wanted to pursue an education at an amazing school.
How are you involved around campus?
I think one of the best things about UMN is how involved you can become on campus. One of the first groups I joined was the Men's Rugby team, which has been an incredible community for me. It was one of the first clubs that interested me, and going from learning the sport just a year ago to now serving as Vice President has been an amazing journey. The team has not only given me lifelong friendships, but also opportunities to build leadership skills. Beyond rugby, I am also Secretary to the Board of the United Nations Student Association (UNSA), where I've been able to explore my interests in global cooperation, diplomacy, and international issues, while connecting with other students who share the same passions.
How do you embody Gopher pride?
To me, Gopher pride means showing up for your community, embracing diversity, and leading with integrity. I try to embody that pride by staying engaged both in the classroom and beyond, getting involved in organizations that strengthen our campus, and supporting my peers. Whether it's representing UMN on the rugby pitch, working with students in UNSA, or encouraging fellow transfer students, I'm proud to be part of a community that is as diverse as this one.
What are your future goals? How is political science preparing you?
My goal after college is to go to law school and eventually work in government and public policy, either through international organizations or NGOs. Political science at UMN has helped me get ready for that by giving me a solid foundation in the classroom and chances to step into leadership roles on campus. Between my classes and the groups I'm involved in, I've been able to build skills in communication and leadership that I know will help me in law school and beyond.
Why did you want to be a part of the Homecoming Court?
I wanted to be part of the Homecoming Court because it's a chance to represent the community that has supported me since I transferred to UMN. As a transfer student, I know what it's like to be new to this environment, and being part of the Court is a way to show that anyone can find their place here. It's also a way to honor the people and organizations that have made my time at UMN so meaningful, from the rugby team to UNSA. For me, representing UMN in this way is about celebrating Gopher pride, not just my own journey, but also the different experiences and voices that make up our campus.
Composed by Sophia Paschke, communications associate.
