Xiaoyu Yao (’19)
Xiaoyu Yao graduated from the Arts Administration program in January 2019. She got her Bachelor Management degree majoring in Information Management while she has a broad interest in art. Her three-year experience in Shanghai Power Station of Art equipped Xiaoyu with communication skills after rotating from Education, Media, to the Administrative department which gave her confidence to pursue the career in the arts. She kept exploring her potential after coming to Boston through studying, researching, and working in different institutions and found her passion in any internet, marketing, communication, community building, and engagement related field of the art world.
Xiaoyu gained her knowledge on the art ecosystem in Boston by researching Artists Open Studios in different neighborhoods and interviewing more than 100 independent artists, galleries owners/managers, industry leaders, and art lovers. She also trained her competitive edge as an art manager by participating in events and interning in different organizations. She has been working with the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Boston Center for the Art, Fenway Artists Studio, Boston Arts & Music Soul Fest, and Arts Initiative at Boston University. Through all the experiences, she had great opportunities to work on event organizing, communication, marketing, and development. As an arts advocator, practitioner, and creative thinker, Xiaoyu is dedicated to building a safe community where people can learn, share, and collaborate.
Arts Administration program at Boston University is a destination for people who want to start or leverage their knowledge and experience as a leader in arts. The program has resourceful instructors with expertise and practical experience for years who can give students helpful advice and offer connections. I do believe this is an excellent chance for arts administrator to have especially for those who want to work in the not-for-profit world.