From Beijing to Jyväskylä: Opening an International Door Through Sport

How has your career developed after the programme?

After completing my initial studies, I returned to Beijing to work at the 2008 Olympic Games, where I contributed to the organisation of several water‑related sports and supported international teams with logistics and event information. This experience confirmed my interest in international sport and large‑scale events.

In the following years, my career became increasingly global. I moved to Switzerland to work for SportAccord and later for the International Cycling Union (UCI), where I acted as a cultural and organisational link between international sports federations and local stakeholders. Later, I joined Wanda Group as an event manager, overseeing major international events such as Ironman competitions and large cycling races. Alongside this work, I also founded my own triathlon club in Beijing, helping people discover endurance sports and adopt healthier lifestyles.

Today, I continue to work internationally, supporting companies that want to expand abroad through top‑level sports events, sponsorships and marketing collaborations.

Which part of your studies or student life has helped you the most in your career?

The most valuable thing I gained from my time at JYU was not just academic knowledge, but capability.

My studies taught me how to think critically, work independently and collaborate confidently with people from different cultures. Group projects and open discussions helped me learn how to express my opinions clearly, even when others disagreed.

I also learned a great deal outside the classroom. Living in Finland required me to adapt to a new culture, climate and language, which strengthened my resilience and independence. These experiences helped shape my confidence and leadership skills, and I later realised that employers often valued this international mindset just as much as my formal qualifications.

What are your ambitions for the future?

Looking ahead, I want to continue building bridges between China and Finland, particularly through sport, education and cultural exchange. With experience in both countries, I see strong potential for cooperation, whether by supporting Chinese companies entering the Finnish market, helping Finnish organisations expand into China, or strengthening academic and cultural partnerships.

I believe that sports events can serve as powerful platforms for international connection, and in the future I hope to use my background and networks to create more opportunities for meaningful exchange between the two countries.

Do you have any advice for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this field?

My advice to students is not to go abroad simply to obtain a degree. Studying internationally is most valuable when you truly immerse yourself in the culture, challenge your own thinking and take an active role in your learning. Degrees matter, but capability, mindset and adaptability matter even more.

I encourage students to be curious, to ask questions and to engage deeply with both their studies and their surroundings. An international education can be life‑changing—not only for your career, but for how you see yourself and the world.