Journey of Trust and Support — NYU Shanghai Welcomes New Parents

NYU Shanghai welcomed the largest cohort of undergraduate students in its history this fall, as more than 600 first-year students from around the world arrived on campus in Shanghai. On August 24, Chancellor Tong Shijun, Vice Chancellor Jeff Lehman, and Provost Bei Wu welcomed new parents to the NYU Shanghai community, while staff, alumni, and parents shared useful resources available to students.

Moderated by Cathie Liu from NYU Shanghai’s Development Office, the New Parents Panel kicked off with a session where three staff members each shared core resources and support from the university. 

The Academic Advising Office is one of the key resources that students have access to throughout their college career. Wang Minqing introduced the support that her team of 15 academic advisors provide to students every step of the way, from the moment they enter as first-year students, to selecting courses and choosing their major, all the way to preparing for study away and applying to graduate school. 

Jin Tong from the Academic Resource Center (ARC) introduced the resources available to help students with their classes. She highlighted the Peer Tutoring program, where outstanding upperclass students bolster students’ learning by providing peer tutoring for over thirty courses. The ARC also offers a series of workshops organized in collaboration with other departments, helping students grow into broadly engaged, independent, and confident lifelong learners.

Another popular resource for students is the Center for Career Development (CCD), where they can receive personalized counseling and coaching. Gu Yuwei explained how the team helps undergraduates pinpoint their interests, establish clear goals, and ultimately realize their career aspirations through using digital tools and networking with alumni and employers. 

By way of example, Gu presented the post-graduation destinations of the Class of 2025, many of whom have secured opportunities at top universities, leading firms, and multinational organizations. Their diverse paths include graduate and doctoral programs, prestigious global fellowships, and employment at major companies and startups. 

From Left to Right: Cathie Liu, Wang Minqing, Jin Tong and Gu Yuwei

The second panel session featured three alumni and a current parent who shared personal experiences and offered insights into a full and diverse life at NYU Shanghai.

Parent Wang Shuo, who had just dropped off his son Jacky Wang ’27 at the airport for a year-long study away in New York, spoke about how crucial NYU Shanghai’s support, and in particular the NYU Alumni Executive Mentor Program, has been for his son’s development. His son, who decided on a Business and Finance major, with a minor in Mathematics, has motivated himself to succeed in a highly competitive environment by being proactive and engaged. 

“As long as students are willing to engage, they can receive guidance and support across academics, life, and career planning through multiple channels,” he said. 

Hammond Liu ’23, a panelist last year, is currently a jointly enrolled Ph.D. student at NYU Shanghai and NYU, with a research focus on AI generative models. He particularly highlighted Global Perspectives on Society (GPS), a signature first-year course at NYU Shanghai. It was demanding, with extensive reading assignments. But he credits the course with giving him rich insights for reflection. “The true value of a liberal arts education,” he said, “may return to you from many directions years down the road.”

Bobi Bao '22 went on to earn her master’s degree in accounting at NYU Stern School of Business and now works in investment at an international firm in Shanghai. She spoke highly of the benefits gained from her GPS course and reflected on her growth both in the classroom and on the tennis court. As a Finance major, Bobi became a teaching assistant in her sophomore year, an experience that proved especially valuable. Beyond academics, she served as captain of the university tennis team, leading it to strong results in various tournaments. She encouraged new students to engage actively in sports and advocated for a well-rounded and multifaceted college life.

Leo Ding ’22 recalled the struggles of switching his major from Biology to a double major in Finance and Data Science during his undergraduate studies. He expressed gratitude for the university’s flexible curriculum and the strong support of the academic advisor, which gave him valuable opportunity to explore and ultimately find a better academic path forward. Active both in class and on campus, Leo participated in Student Government, served on the Commencement Committee, and volunteered with the Alumni Association. 

After graduation, he pursued further studies at NYU Stern and is now working at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Looking back, he says the confidence to connect and communicate with people from around the world and to communicate effectively in frequent cross-cultural interactions is the “most treasured gift” NYU Shanghai has given him.

From Left to Right: Cathie Liu, Leo Ding, Bobi Bao, Hammond Liu and Wang Shuo

Chancellor Tong Shijun followed with remarks centered on the theme of “resources.” He invited parents to support their children in making proactive and independent use of NYU Shanghai’s rich and robust educational resources. At the same time, he encouraged students to turn “necessary tasks” into resources that fuel their learning and personal growth. He concluded with a reminder about the importance of well-being: “People are our greatest resource, and above all, the health of your children matters most. They may encounter setbacks, and their performance may not always meet the expectations you once held, but please never lose sight of the importance of their physical and mental health.”

Chancellor Tong Shijun

Vice Chancellor Jeff Lehman acknowledged the hard work of the incoming class of students and recognized the parents for their steadfast support of their children. He warmly invited parents in four years to celebrate again together at their children’s commencement. 

Vice Chancellor Jeff Lehman

Provost Bei Wu spoke to the parents, acknowledging that the next four years would not always be smooth sailing while reminding them that each challenge is also an opportunity for growth. She reassured parents that the University has built a comprehensive support system. “At NYU Shanghai, they will never be alone,” she told them. “Our professors, mentors, and staff will always support and guide them, helping them find their own pace and direction.”

Provost Bei Wu

An International Parents Panel ran concurrently to strengthen communication with international student families and enhance their engagement.