Xin's Journey: Bridging Cultures Between China and Australia
Your mission is to be a bridge of communication between China and Australia.
Echoing her father’s vision, Xin was—from a young age—keen to be well-integrated with her culture and native roots. Hailing from a very traditional Chinese family, she gauged early on the importance of understanding the social, political and historical nuances of her nation as well as of the Asia-Pacific region.
This shaped Xin’s affinity for international affairs, and she went on to complete a Bachelor’s degree in international affairs from UNSW. Subsequently, when unsure of which direction to navigate her career in, someone suggested ANU—a place known for being the most resourceful and comprehensive in Australia for international affairs and politics.
Embarking on a Global Journey: Mastering Asian and Pacific Studies
Entering the world of CHL and ANU postgraduate studies reaffirmed Xin’s belief that she had made the right move. For her, the highlight of her experience with the program was the approach to learning. Taking a giant leap from her undergraduate studies, her Master’s degree compelled Xin to think out of the box and invest in background reading, as the big shift in methodology was the need for independent thinking and discussion in the classroom.
“How knowledge is fed to you through active participation in critical debate and discussion is amazing. I learned how to process knowledge in a different but most enduring way during my studies here. Applied learning in this manner is not only helpful for long-lasting knowledge but also an extremely wonderful exercise in classroom and colleague bonding.”
From the odd rainy days navigating through the warren that is the Coombs Building to make it on time for a 9am class, to the detail-oriented suggestions and tips provided by her academics—Xin cherishes all the unforgettable memories of her Masters journey at CHL.
Trial by Thesis
It was certainly no bed of roses all the time, however. As part of her degree, Xin also did a thesis on Chinese youth attitudes towards state-mandated status quos. Xin felt out of bounds and totally isolated from her comfort zone, especially as she was only able to do this component parttime. It was more challenging than she had ever anticipated. Initially, she had planned to complete the thesis before time, but eventually she just barely managed to meet the deadline!
What ultimately helped was a fortnightly meeting organised by Program Convener Bethwyn Evans, where peers would meet to discuss their theses together. This got Xin over the line, as she was not having to navigate a new process and deliverable in isolation.
Advice to future students
Today, all the struggle and anxiety seem so far behind, and as Xin pictures herself in the graduation regalia, she reflects on her journey positively:
All the challenges do turn into opportunities and teach you how to approach them in diverse ways. I have realised that I have acquired new soft skills and capabilities because of the experience.
So, Xin’s advice to anyone looking to walk down a pathway like hers?
Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable or ask for help. Immerse yourself and connect with your supervisors, colleagues and classmates. I got some more insight, beyond what I was familiar with. It’s all a part of the learning process, and you come out stronger and more resourceful at the end of it!
As Xin graduates with her Masters from The Australian National University, she eagerly anticipates advancing her mission that has profoundly shaped her academic journey. Her next steps are poised to forge new pathways of communication and foster cultural collaboration between China and Australia.
