Stepping Out of Comfort:
A New Year’s Choice
When the New Year bell rings, some choose to continue along a familiar path, while others press the “restart” button and set off on a new journey. Luo Yanyi is one of those young people who bravely made her choice.
Born in Hunan and raised in Zhongshan, Guangdong, her early life was steady and familiar: from kindergarten to high school, she studied in her hometown. Yet, as college entrance exams approached, she began to think about her future. Shanghai, the forefront of China’s economic development, became her first choice; East China Normal University attracted her with its academic environment and international vision; ultimately, she chose AEBS’s “Intelligent Business Experimental Class in Business Administration.” The program’s name itself hinted at innovation—merging AI technology with the frontiers of business.
For Luo Yanyi, choosing AEBS was more than picking a school; it was choosing a new lifestyle and a new way of growing. The New Year represents not just the passage of time, but also the chance to reset direction. At this moment, she pressed her personal “start” button and embarked on an unknown yet exciting journey.
Crossing Cultures: Redefining Oneself
on a Global Stage
At AEBS, Luo Yanyi’s pace of life and learning was completely different from before. In class, she delved into microeconomics and macroeconomics, connecting theory directly with real-world applications. Professors Qiu Ju and Wu Maoguo impressed her with their teaching, demonstrating both practical knowledge and international communication skills.
Beyond the classroom, AEBS’s international atmosphere enriched her experience. Through ice-breaking activities, picnics, and cross-cultural gatherings, she met friends from Thailand, Slovakia, Indonesia, and many other countries. For a formerly introverted high school student, these “first-time” experiences broadened her horizons and reshaped her thinking—learning to approach problems from multiple perspectives and communicate openly across cultures.
Here, learning is no longer about rote memorization; it combines practical skills with global insight. She learned to analyze markets, policies, and economic phenomena, and to discuss these insights in English with peers from around the world. Every class discussion and extracurricular activity became a step in redefining herself in a global context.
From Introversion to Leadership: Growing into the New Year
University life is not only about knowledge, but also about shaping oneself. Luo Yanyi started as an ordinary student council officer, participating in International Women’s Day activities and “Explore Shanghai” events for Chinese and international students. Over time, she grew from being shy and inward-looking to outgoing and capable, eventually becoming the head of the publicity department.
Her daily routine is simple yet disciplined: learning, engaging, and practicing. Every challenge has taught her responsibility and the power of teamwork. She understands that while one person may move fast, it is a team that truly goes far.
Looking ahead, Luo Yanyi has a clear sense of direction: AEBS’s international environment has expanded her career possibilities. She may choose to work for a multinational company or pursue management roles within organizations. She believes that the skills and perspectives she is building here will give her the confidence to step onto a broader stage.
A new year, a new beginning—AEBS witnesses the courage and growth of every young student, and welcomes those eager to explore the world and embrace a brand-new self to start their international journey here. We are here waiting for you.