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Jenny Sun, the first HQIS alumna from the Class of 2019, not only excelled academically during her time as an HQISer, but also demonstrated exceptional versatility and enthusiasm by actively participating in various activities. Jenny is now about to graduate from her undergraduate studies, and her relentless efforts and remarkable talents allowed her to get the acceptance into prestigious finance programs at both Columbia University and the University of Hong Kong. This is a great and well-deserved recognition of her diligence and talent over the past few years, and marks the beginning of an even more triumphant journey in her life.
Jenny Sun，作为上海虹桥国际外籍人员子女学校2019届杰出的毕业生，在校期间不仅学业成绩优秀，更以饱满的热情投身于各类校园活动中，展现了其全面发展的卓越风采。如今，即将从本科阶段毕业的Jenny，凭借其不懈的努力与卓越的才能，成功获得了世界顶尖学府——哥伦比亚大学与香港大学金融专业的录取通知，这无疑是对她过去几年勤奋与才华的极高认可，也预示着Jenny即将踏上一段更加辉煌的人生旅程。
QS World University Ranking
#23
QS World University Ranking
#26
We are honored to have invited Jenny for an exclusive interview, where she will share her valuable insights from her undergraduate life, profound personal growth experiences, and future career and life plans.
我们非常荣幸地邀请到了Jenny接受我们的专访，她将与我们分享在大学期间宝贵的学习心得、个人成长的深刻感悟，以及对于未来职业道路与人生规划。
Q1
Hi, Jenny! Please introduce yourself!
请简单介绍一下自己！
Hello everyone! It's Jenny Sun here, a proud alumna of our esteemed HQIS. Just last year, I wrapped up my undergraduate journey at the prestigious University of California, Irvine, where I accelerated my education and completed my degree in three years. As I ventured into the next chapter, I embarked on financial internships and eagerly pursued graduate school opportunities. To my delight, I received offers from both Hong Kong University and Columbia University in the field of finance in April.
大家好，我是Jenny Sun，作为HQIS的校友，我深感荣幸。去年，我在加州大学欧文分校，仅用三年时间便完成了学业。随后，我积极投身于金融领域的实习，并致力于研究生院校的申请。四月，我荣幸地收到了香港大学和哥伦比亚大学金融专业的录取通知书。
When it comes to leisure, I'm an avid traveler and a passionate gamer. Have you guys ever heard of Among Us? It's a game that's popular for many years in the US, and I even enjoy streaming its Chinese version on TikTok, sharing the excitement with a wider audience. Moreover, I have a creative side that thrives on DIY projects. Crafting crystal bracelets is my latest obsession – I truly believe in their enchanting abilities to bring me good fortune and positive energy. It's a little something that adds sparkle to my days and reminds me of the magic that lies within each one of us.
在学术研究之余，我热衷于旅行和游戏。大家有听说过《Among Us》这款游戏吗？这是一款在美国广受欢迎的游戏，我会在TikTok上分享中文版本的视频，与更广泛的社群交流心得。此外，我对DIY手工艺术也有着浓厚的兴趣。我特别钟情于制作水晶手镯，这不仅是一种创造性的释放，也是我追求好运和正能量的方式。这些小小的手工艺品，不仅为我的日常生活增添了一抹亮色，也提醒我，每个人都有创造奇迹的潜力。
Q2
You earned a dual bachelor's degree at the university. What were those two majors you pursued? And what led you to choose these two specific areas of study?
你在本科阶段拿到了双学士学位，请问是哪两个专业？为什么会选择这两个专业？
Throughout my university years, I had the unique opportunity to earn two bachelor's degrees:Philosophy and Business Economics. My university life started with a single passion – Philosophy. I was fascinated by those profound questions that make us doubt our very existence, from the ethical dilemma of reporting a friend's cheating to the elusive definition of justice. So, I dived headfirst into the realm of philosophy, relishing every moment spent delving into texts and engaging in stimulating discussions that enriched my life.
在我的本科学习期间，我获得了双学士学位：哲学和商业经济学。我的大学生活始于对哲学的热情。我被那些深刻问题所吸引，这些问题让我们质疑我们的存在，从报告朋友作弊的道德困境到正义的难以捉摸的定义。因此，我全身心地投入到哲学领域，享受每一刻深入研究文本和参与激发思考的讨论，这些都丰富了我的生活。
However, as I progressed through my academic journey, my father's guidance led me to consider the practical side of my education. That's when I decided to add Business Economics to my portfolio, in the second year of college. This decision not only broadened my horizons but also paved the way for my future endeavors in finance. It turns out, that economics has significantly strengthened my applications for graduate programs in finance. Philosophy teaches me how to live as a person, and Business Economics gives me a strength that can build up to my future career.
然而，在学术探索的不断深入中，我深受父亲的启发，开始愈发重视教育的实用价值。正是在大学二年级时，我做出了一个重要的决定：将商业经济学纳入我的学术研究范畴。这一决策不仅极大地拓宽了我的知识视野，更为我未来在金融行业的发展奠定了坚实的基础。事实上，深入学习经济学显著增强了我申请金融研究生项目时的竞争力。
Something I want to tell you guys is that: it’s imperative to nurture your passions. And it’s equally important to consider your career aspirations when choosing your majors. So, as you embark on your own academic pursuits, remember to strike that delicate balance between following your heart and preparing for your future.
我想告诉大家的是：培养自己对未来发展方向的热情，至关重要。在选择专业时，同样重要的是考虑你的职业抱负。因此，当你开始自己的学术追求时，记得在追随内心与准备未来之间找到那种微妙的平衡。
Q3
What influenced you at HQIS to choose your major? 在HQIS高中阶段的学习是如何帮助你专业的选择？
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the privilege of learning from outstanding educators at HQIS. These exceptional teachers didn't just impart knowledge to me; they ignited a spark within me, inspiring me to actively seek knowledge and to think critically. It was this environment that nurtured my curiosity and ignited my passion for philosophy. My fascination with philosophy stems from my innate love for "thinking" – delving into the depths of ideas, exploring the complexities of human existence, and pondering the big questions that shape our world.
能够在HQIS遇到如此杰出的老师们，我感到无比幸运。老师们不仅向我传授知识，更在我心中点燃了一把火，激励我主动求知，培养批判性思维。正是这样的环境滋养了我的好奇心，激发了我对哲学的深厚热情。我对哲学的迷恋，源于我天生对“思考”的热爱——深入探索思想的深度，研究人类存在的复杂性，并沉思那些塑造我们世界的大问题。
Q4
What are you most proud of achieving during your time at HQIS?
在HQIS高中就读期间，你觉得最大的收获是什么？
I am deeply proud to have been a member of this esteemed institution, for it provided me with an environment that ignited a lifelong passion for learning. My academic journey here was far from the mundane, as it fostered a curiosity that transcended the pages of textbooks. I vividly recall the exhilarating moments when my chemistry and physics teachers invited me to participate in experiments, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in tangible ways. These hands-on experiences transformed learning into an exhilarating adventure, where the thrill of discovery superseded any notion of boredom. This immersive approach to education sparked within me an insatiable hunger for exploration and understanding. It was this very spirit that ultimately led me to pursue philosophy.
我为自己曾是HQISer而深感自豪，HQIS为我提供了一个激发终身学习热情的环境。我在这里的学术之旅绝非平淡无奇，它培养了一种超越了书本知识的好奇心。
我至今仍能生动地回忆起那些振奋人心的时刻，我的化学和物理老师邀请我参与实验，让我得以将理论知识应用于实际操作中。这些亲手实践的经历将学习变成了一场激动人心的冒险，探索的乐趣超越了任何枯燥的念头。这种沉浸式的教学方法点燃了我内心深处对探索和理解的强烈渴望。正是这种精神最终引领我走上了哲学之路。
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Physics teachers and Jenny one-on-one guidance to demonstrate the circuit by using Virtual Lab.
物理老师与Jenny一对一辅导，运用软件演示电路原理。
Using the knowledge on paper in the actual world also helps me learn about finance — a practical subject. My time at this school not only equipped me with academic knowledge but also instilled in me a love for learning that continues to drive me forward.
在现实生活中运用书本上的知识也帮助我了解了金融这一实用学科。我在HQIS的校园时光不仅赋予了我丰富的学术知识，还培养了我对学习的热爱，这种热爱至今仍在不断驱使我前进。
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Jenny participated in The Model United Nations as delegation held in 2019. Jenny作为HQIS代表团的一员参加了2019举办的模拟联合国大会。
Q5
Have you ever encountered any difficulties or challenges during your study in university? And how did you overcome them?
在大学的学习过程中，有没有遇到过特别困难或挑战的事情？你是如何克服的？
The one challenge that stands out in university is online learning from the pandemic. I used to thrive in the vibrant, focused atmosphere of the library and school, where studying came naturally. But when the pandemic hit, and my study space shifted to the comfort of my home, I found it harder to stay motivated and focused. The comfort of my surroundings tempted me into laziness, and I quickly realized that maintaining my study routine required a new level of dedication and self-discipline. For the first time, I was confronted with the challenge of directly addressing the obstacle rather than finding a workaround.
在大学期间，我面临的一个突出挑战是疫情期间的在线学习。我会去学校图书馆里学习，那里的专注氛围有助于我集中精力。然而，疫情来袭，我的学习空间被迫转移到了家中，我发现保持动力和专注变得更加困难。家中舒适的环境让我变得容易懈怠，我很快意识到，要维持良好的学习习惯，我需要展现出更高层次的投入和自律能力。这是我第一次直面挑战，而不是寻找捷径。
Instead of relying on external environments to foster my focus, I've learned to create my own optimal study setting at home. I've turned my bedroom into a place where I can immerse myself in a study-conducive atmosphere. And through practice and perseverance, I've honed my ability to stay focused, even amidst the distractions of home.
我没有依赖外部环境来培养专注力，而是学会了在家中创造最佳的学习环境。我把卧室变成了一个能够让自己沉浸于有利学习氛围中的地方。通过不断的实践和坚持不懈的努力，我已经磨练了即使在分心的情况下也能保持专注的能力。
Q6
Congratulations on successfully receiving the offer for a master's degree from Columbia University this year! Could you please tell us which university and major you have ultimately chosen for your graduate studies?
听说你今年成功获得了哥伦比亚大学master的offer，恭喜你！请问你最终会选择哪所学校以及专业进行研究生阶段的学习？
Thank you! I accepted the offer from Hong Kong University, choosing between it and Columbia University. I expect a career in the Asian market. In anticipation of delving into the finance program at Hong Kong University, I have been diligently self-educating myself in financial knowledge every day. My goal is to not just grasp the fundamentals but also to gain a nuanced understanding of the intricate workings of the financial market. I am particularly eager to master the art of calculating financial indices, a crucial skill that I believe will equip me well for my future endeavors.
谢谢！我在香港大学和哥伦比亚大学之间做出了选择，最终接受了香港大学的录取通知。我期望未来能在亚洲市场开展我的职业生涯。为了迎接在香港大学学习金融课程的挑战，我每天都在自学金融知识。我的目标不仅仅是掌握基础知识，还要深入理解金融市场的复杂运作机制。我特别渴望掌握计算金融指数的技巧，这是一项至关重要的技能，我相信它将为我未来的努力打下坚实的基础。
Moreover, I am planning to undertake an internship in Hong Kong post-graduation. This not only serves as a stepping stone towards launching my career from a solid foundation but also aligns perfectly with the concept of the Matthew Effect, where initial success begets further opportunities for growth and advancement.
此外，我计划在毕业后在香港开始一份实习工作。这不仅是我从坚实基础上开启职业生涯的垫脚石，而且与“马太效应”的概念完全契合，即初步的成功会带来更多成长和进步的机会。
Q7
Have you attended any internship or summer program at your university? If yes, could you please share your experience?
你是否参加过实习或暑期项目？可以分享一下你的实习经历和收获吗？
I’ve had four enriching internship experiences – two during my gap semester and two post-graduation. Reflecting on these opportunities, I've come to realize that the essence of an internship transcends merely padding your resume. It's about upgrading your skill set, acquiring valuable knowledge, and gaining a foundational understanding of the professional work environment. Given that my internships were all brief, spanning no longer than three months, I didn't have the opportunity to directly contribute to revenue-generating services for the companies. However, I believe that even in the context of short-term internships, there's immense value in maximizing your learning potential.
我已经有过四次充实的实习经历——两次是在我gap期间，两次是在毕业后。回顾这些机会，我意识到实习的本质不仅仅是丰富你的简历。更重要的是提升你的技能组合，获取宝贵的知识，并对职业工作环境有基本的了解。考虑到我的实习都是短期的，最长不超过三个月，因此我并没有机会直接为公司创造收入的服务做出贡献。然而，我相信，即使在短期实习的背景下，最大限度地发挥你的学习潜力也是具有巨大价值的。
My advice to fellow A School students embarking on internships is to seize every opportunity after hours to soak up as much knowledge as possible. This could involve engaging with colleagues, actively participating in team activities, meticulously documenting your work processes, and honing your time management skills to ensure peak productivity during work hours. Remember, the skills you acquire and the connections you make during your internship can pave the way for future success, far beyond the duration of your placement.
我给即将开始实习的学弟学妹们的建议是，要抓住每一个工作之外的机会，尽可能多地吸收知识。这可以包括与同事交流、积极参与团队活动、仔细记录你的工作流程，以及磨练你的时间管理技能，以确保在工作时间内保持最高效率。记住，你在实习期间获得的技能和建立的人脉可以为未来的成功铺平道路，其影响远远超出你实习的期限。
Q8
Could you please share your experience and tips with HQISer when you apply for your master's degree?
你在申请研究生时，有哪些经验和技巧可以分享给学弟学妹们？
Understanding the criteria that graduate programs prioritize in their candidates is paramount to crafting a successful application. In the realm of finance, for instance, practical experience in the form of internships often carries more weight than academic coursework or competition victories. For those pursuing chemistry or philosophy, publishing research papers serves as a powerful addition to your resume, showcasing your intellectual prowess and dedication to the field. If your sights are set on a math graduate program, a robust record of participation in mathematical competitions can significantly enhance your application. The key is to recognize these preferences early on and tailor your preparation accordingly.
了解研究生课程在选拔候选人时所重视的标准，对于打造一份成功的申请至关重要。以金融领域为例，相较于学术课程或竞赛获奖，实习等实践经验往往更具分量。对于那些攻读化学或哲学的人来说，在简历中添加发表的研究论文是一个强有力的补充，可以充分展示你的智慧力量和对该领域的奉献精神。如果你的目标是攻读数学研究生课程，那么拥有在数学竞赛中的丰富参赛记录可以显著提升你的申请竞争力。关键是尽早认识到这些偏好，并相应地调整你的准备工作。
The earlier you embark on this preparatory journey, the greater your chances of securing admission into your dream program. Don't wait until the last minute to gather the necessary experiences and achievements. Start now, and keep working consistently towards your goals. Remember, every step you take today brings you closer to your aspirations.
你越早开始准备，进入梦想学府的机会就越大。不要等到最后一刻才去积累必要的经验和成就。从现在开始，坚持不懈地朝着你的目标努力。记住，你今天迈出的每一步都会让你更接近你的梦想。
Q9
Lastly, anything you’d like to share with current seniors at HQIS?
你有哪些建议或经验想要分享给HQIS毕业生们？
Indeed, my time at HQIS stands as the pinnacle of my learning experiences. The vibrant academic atmosphere, the dedication of my teachers, the camaraderie among my classmates, and the rich curriculum all contributed to an unforgettable journey. Such an environment, where curiosity and exploration are nurtured, is a rarity not easily found in colleges or workplaces.
事实上，我在HQIS的时光是我学习经历中的巅峰。这里充满活力的学术氛围、教师的奉献精神、同学间的深厚情谊以及丰富的课程内容，共同构成了一段难忘的旅程。在这样的环境中，好奇心和探索精神得到滋养，这在大学或工作场所并不容易找到。
I wholeheartedly encourage each and every one of you to seize the opportunity presented by HQIS and delve deeply into the realms of knowledge that ignite your passions. Utilize your free time to explore these interests, for the earlier you discover your true calling, the clearer your path toward your future major and career will become.
请抓住HQIS提供的每一次机会，深入探索点燃你们激情的知识领域。利用你们的空闲时间去探索这些兴趣，因为越早发现自己的真正的爱好，你们未来专业和职业的道路就会越清晰。
Of course, while pursuing your passions, do not neglect your academic responsibilities. Studies remain a priority, and I have no doubt that you all understand their importance. But amidst the rigor of your coursework, remember to savor every moment at HQIS. Cherish the friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the memories made.
当然，在追求探索热情的同时，不要忽视你们的学术责任。学习仍然是首要任务，我相信你们都明白它的重要性。但在严格的课程学习中，也要记得珍惜在HQIS的每一刻。珍惜结下的友谊、学习到的知识和创造的回忆。
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts with you today. And to HQIS, thank you for being a beacon of learning and inspiration. I sincerely wish all of you the very best in your academic pursuits and beyond, as you embark on exciting new chapters in your lives. Keep striving, keep smiling, and may you believe your future is full of possibilities!
感谢你们今天给予我这个机会，让我能够与你们分享我的想法。感谢HQIS，它如同一座灯塔，照亮了我们的学习和灵感之路。我真诚地祝愿你们不仅在学术追求上取得卓越成就，更能在更广阔的领域中大放异彩，愿你们在生活中不断翻开激动人心的新篇章。请继续努力，保持微笑，坚信你们的未来充满了无限可能！
Once again, we extend our warmest congratulations to Jenny! We also sincerely thank her for generously sharing her invaluable experiences and personal journey. We believe this not only sets a brilliant example for our current students and a guide for their paths, but also greatly inspires all of us, making us more determined and courageous in the pursuit of our dreams.
再次向Jenny致以最热烈的祝贺! 同时，非常感谢Jenny同学慷慨地分享了她的宝贵经验和心路历程，这不仅为在校的学弟学妹们树立了一座璀璨的灯塔，照亮了他们前行的道路，也极大地鼓舞了我们每一个人，让我们在追逐梦想的路上更加坚定与勇敢。
We firmly believe that Jenny's exceptional talent and unwavering efforts will be the solid foundation for her future endeavors. In the days to come, Jenny will undoubtedly continue to shine and excel on the stage of life, forging a brilliant future.
我们坚信，Jenny所展现出的卓越才华与不懈努力，将是她未来人生旅途中最坚实的基石。我在未来的日子里，Jenny定会以更加出色的表现，继续在人生的舞台上发光发热，创造属于自己的辉煌。
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