I am a social sciences researcher, teacher, writer, and editor at the Waseda Institute for Advanced Study (WIAS), Waseda University, Japan.
Born and raised in Changsha, Hunan, China, I have pursued an international academic journey and experienced firsthand the transformative power of education. I received my Ph.D. training at the Center for International Higher Education (CIHE) at Boston College, USA, under the mentorship of Professors Hans de Wit and Philip G. Altbach. The doctoral training and collaboration at CIHE shaped my perspectives to focus on "rectifying global inequalities in our field and promoting critical perspectives through our work".
I believe in its immense potential for enhancing human development, fostering universal values, and addressing global challenges. Aligned with my identity and values, my research evolved from an initial interest in individual sense-making processes in transnational contexts to a broader examination of institutional and structural dimensions.
My research now examines globalization and the internationalization of higher education through three interconnected themes:
The internationalization of higher education across different contexts
International mobility and experiences
Transnational and transcultural transition, agency, and transformation
This research agenda feels increasingly pertinent as anti-globalization sentiments, nationalist movements, and populist ideologies challenge international mobility and collaboration. As social scientists, we strive to understand the complex forces shaping societies and to offer insights that may help inform more effective policies and practices. Recognizing that no single scholar can resolve these complex issues alone, I am hopeful that systematic and collaborative research efforts can contribute to building a more inclusive and peaceful global community.
My time outside academia is spent reading novels, walking around in Shinjuku Gyoen, and growing flowers and plants.
I am a consumer and analyzer of pop culture (sci-fi) and music.
Lilies, and Persian buttercups bring me most joy.