Helen Yang earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Statistics at McGill University after graduating from the Pure & Applied Science program at Marianopolis in 2019. She is currently completing a Master’s in Operations Research at Columbia University and preparing to begin a her studies in Beijing this fall as a member of the 9th cohort of Schwarzman Scholars at Tsinghua University.

What inspired you to apply to the Schwarzman Scholar fellowship?

Quite honestly, committing to a single career path can be difficult! In my journey, I’ve explored several fields, beginning with Science at Marianopolis College, and then shifting to Commerce at McGill University, before deciding to pursue a major in Statistics. I am now completing my Master’s in Operations Research at Columbia University with a focus on smart city initiatives.

And throughout my studies I’ve had the opportunity to participate in different extracurricular and social activities, taking on leadership role with student clubs like the Marianopolis Chinese Students Association and later helping to launch the inaugural edition of the Tsinghua Youth Conference in the summer of 2023.

I drew enormous satisfaction from my involvement in these activities and those experiences really prompted to explore the Schwarzman Scholars program, which centers on leadership development in the context of global affairs and public policy.

Which aspects of the scholarship were most attractive to you?

The Schwarzman Scholars program is much more than just a series of global affairs and public policy courses. It features very unique opportunities for international travel and experiential learning through immersive experiences in China. And that includes numerous networking events, where you can connect with new people, develop “soft skills” and build a strong network of peers. On top of that, as a Chinese Canadian, the prospect of living in Beijing, my birth town, and reconnecting with my Chinese identity was invaluable.

What was your reaction when you found out you had been selected from such a large candidate pool?

I was surprised! After my first interview, I stayed around to talk with other candidates. They were all outstanding in their fields and I could sense the competition would be very tough. So I’m very eager to join this community, learn from my peers and make a positive contribution to the program.

You’re wrapping up your Master’s at Columbia at the moment – how are you balancing all the work involved in completing your degree with the excitement and preparation involved with joining the Schwarzman scholars in August?

The Columbia Master’s program is challenging. I am also fast-tracking my program, completing 30 credits in two semesters rather than the usual three to graduate on time for my upcoming journey. This has really led me to improve my time management skills and strive to achieve a balanced student life. There are ups and downs but luckily, the Schwarzman program guides us through the preparation process and makes sure we are well informed about what to expect. I’ve also been fortunate to be part of incredibly supportive Schwarzman cohort, whose members are always available to answer questions and help each other.

Looking back, were there any classes or professors at the College that were particularly impactful in your academic career?

Yes! Professor Andrew Burton was my first English professor at Marianopolis. I transitioned to Marianopolis from a French high school and English was my third language. Professor Burton’s course was rigorous and challenging but also very well-organized and structured. It really provided a solid foundation that helped me develop my English language skills. Being able to communicate clearly is such a critical skill in every field of study or work. Professor Burton’s guidance was key in improving my ability to communicate and his commitment as a teacher really helped me grow as a student and a person.

Professor Sylvain Pagé also sparked my love for French with his unique teaching style. I took both of my French classes with him and really enjoyed them. I don’t get the opportunity to speak French as often as I did but I do work to keep up with it by speaking with friends and making the effort to read in French. His enthusiasm for the language really inspired me!