Pronouns: She/her
Home Country: China
Field of Study: Economics
Linjing He, from China, completed her MA in Economics (now changed to be MS in Quantitative Economics) in August 2024. She is currently working remotely at Witness to Mass Incarceration Inc. as their economic development intern. We sat down with Linjing to take a deep dive into her journey and get her advice to fellow GRS students in this exclusive Q&A session.
What initially drew you to this field? How did your experiences (academic or professional) solidify your passion for this area of study?
Linjing started her economics journey through taking AP classes in highschool. She quickly realized how much she enjoyed learning more about this social science which had a pragmatic nature and held a potential to improve the general welfare of a country internally and internationally. She was drawn to how economics combined different subjects together such as psychology and business from more of a statistical standpoint. She continued to pursue her academic interest in economics in Los Angeles at her undergraduate major at Occidental College. As her passion for economics continued to grow she decided the right path for her was to continue with pursuing a masters.
Could you describe a time where you encountered a significant academic challenge in your graduate studies? How did you approach this obstacle and what did you learn from the experience?
There are going to be times when you are expected to complete multiple tasks within a short period of time. She continued to describe a particular week where she had to complete 3 projects as well as take 3 midterms. Although she tried her best to complete her projects well before the deadline and study for the midterms the week prior, it still wasn’t enough. This allowed her to work on strengthening her time management skills. She also learned how to allocate her energy between tasks and exams. On top of working on her personal skills, she realized the importance of seeking help from professors. When she described her situation, her professor was understanding and helpful as he gave her an extension on the project.
What is one thing you believe is crucial for academic/professional success but is overlooked by many?
It is important to realize one’s academic and/or professional success takes time. No one wakes up one morning and suddenly acquires all the knowledge and the skills they need to be successful. It is important to realize that and allow yourself to take that time. This will not only allow you to master your skills but also help with your mental state as you are not enforcing unrealistic deadlines on yourself.
What are some opportunities and resources at BU that you’ve utilized and would recommend others to leverage during their time at BU that will benefit them in the future too?
The Center for Career Development offers resume improvement services and templates for cover letters and resumes to help students create professional and effective job application materials. This is also beneficial for international students as they will have the guidance to understand how to format a US style resume and cover letter. Additionally, students should seek to benefit from the expertise of professors and academic advisors, who can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the job search process.
Could you share a strategy or a technique you implemented that helps you achieve an efficient work life balance during graduate school?
Setting achievable and realistic goals is essential for fostering personal growth and motivation. By breaking down larger objectives into smaller, manageable steps, you increase your chances of success and build momentum. The satisfaction derived from accomplishing these milestones can be incredibly rewarding, boosting your confidence and inspiring you to tackle even greater challenges. Moreover, aligning these short-term goals with your long-term vision provides a clear roadmap for progress, ensuring that your actions contribute meaningfully to your overall aspirations.
Did you have a mentor, professor, or colleague who significantly impacted your success? How did their guidance shape your path?
Linjing was heavily inspired by her academic advisor at BU. Although he was the appointed advisor for everyone in the program, his willingness to talk to every single student while still offering them his full support was inspiring to many. Linjing is appreciative of how her advisor would sometimes take time out of his personal day to share his experiences with students in the hopes of providing them a new perspective or even just simple support.
A supportive network is crucial for success. How did you build your support network during your studies or professional life? What advice do you have for other students in building theirs?
Boston University comes with a very diverse student body which opens up an unique opportunity to broaden one’s perspective. Interacting with peers from different cultures can enrich your experience and provide valuable insights. While natural affinities may form connections, actively seeking out individuals from diverse backgrounds can expand your network and foster a rich learning environment.
What would you say to people who are currently in their graduate school journey?
Master’s could be your final chapter as a student, so make the most of it. Immerse yourself in the campus experience by joining clubs, participating in extracurricular activities, and attending office hours. Utilize the Career Center’s resources and connect with fellow students to broaden your horizons and build a strong professional network. Remember, it’s essential to balance academic pursuits with enjoying the overall experience.
About the Author:
Doğa Sevgi
Marketing & Communication Assistant, GRS
Bachelor of Science, Psychology