In the fall of 2022, Hao Cui officially established himself as a Penn student-athlete—moving into Ware, diving into MATH 1400, and putting in endless hours on the squash courts. Now, with three years as a Quaker under his belt, Hao has built an impressive record of success both on and off the court. 
 
A finance major in Wharton with a 3.83 GPA, Hao has been part of a squash program that captured back-to-back national championships. At the same time, he has been deeply engaged across campus, from the Penn Athletics Wharton Leadership Academy (PAWLA) to a competitive consulting club. This year, Hao has stepped into one of the most influential student leadership positions in Penn Athletics as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). 
 
As a four-year SAAC member, Hao's experience has prepared him to lead the group with vision and energy. His goals this year are clear: strengthen community, amplify school spirit, and elevate the student-athlete experience. 
 
"I have this broad vision of unifying the various teams across Penn Athletics, and that's honestly my main priority," Hao said. "I want to see a fencing match packed with other student-athletes cheering. I want our beautiful Franklin Field to reach closer to capacity on game days." 
That vision aligns directly with Penn Athletics' broader mission to create a student-athlete experience that is supportive, connected, and inspiring. For Hao, leadership is less about titles and more about impact. 
 
Leading with Purpose 
On the squash team, Hao has witnessed the power of growth and persistence.

"My freshman year our team finished fourth at nationals, so being a part of national championship teams the last two years has been such an honor," he reflected. "Since we're a smaller team too, our individual impacts are amplified. Being a good and reliable person on and off the court is what I truly care about. And now, as a senior, I have a chance to help secure a three-peat for Penn, which would be the most exciting feat I've ever had the chance to contribute to."

Beyond squash, Hao's approach to leadership is rooted in authenticity and passion. 
 
"I try not to overcomplicate my view on leadership," he said. "I try to step up for the things I'm passionate about, whether that's for SAAC or the consulting club I've been a part of. Leadership comes easiest if there's some real passion behind it. I view leadership positions as a way to give back and help the underclassmen, so they'll do the same when they're inevitably in those positions." 
 
Lessons from Sport 
Like many athletes, Hao has faced the challenges that come with balancing academics, sport, and leadership. But those challenges have shaped him.
 
"In squash specifically, I've learned how lonely it can be," he noted. "It's an individual sport in a team format, and sometimes that's hard—whether it's an injury, a tough loss, or things not going as planned. Sport can leave you feeling incredibly overwhelmed and alone—but that's also been the most valuable lesson. I've learned how to manage the good and the bad, how to rely on those around me, and how to build relationships that last. I owe so much to the experiences and the communities I've been a part of along the way."

Those lessons will stay with him long after his playing career. 
 
"Sport reflects so many aspects of life. I've learned about work ethic, attitude, and how to adapt. Those skills are extremely transferable and valuable in any future—even outside of sport." 
 
Looking Ahead 
As a senior, Hao is looking toward the future with a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

"Honestly, I'm not too sure!" he said when asked about what's next. "That's kind of the scary and exciting part of being a senior. I have a pipe dream of playing professionally, but I also have a lot of aspirations in business and developing career-wise. I'll be spending the next few months figuring that out. Stay tuned!"
 
One thing is certain: whether on the court, in the classroom, or in a leadership role, Hao brings his full self to every challenge. And when it comes to pre-match preparation, he has a ritual that helps him shift gears: 
 
"Music gets me fired up," he said. "I kind of need to be in this mindset that doesn't typically suit my personality at all, and hype music helps me find that space. Lately, my go-to has been 'Tore Up' by Don Toliver." 
 
With his leadership, SAAC is poised for a year of greater connection, stronger community, and an even more vibrant Penn Athletics experience. And for Hao Cui, the next chapter is only just beginning.