From Shanghai to ASU
Jun Qian's journey in psychology
By Mariana Lozovanu | June 20, 2024
Editor’s note
Jun Qian is an international student from Shanghai who majored this spring in psychology at New College. Her inspiration to study psychology stemmed from her need to find answers and solutions to life's challenges, finding relaxation in reading psychology books. This interest led her to pursue psychology through ASU's online program before transitioning to on-campus studies.
Jun has about 20 years of managerial experience in multinational companies, particularly in fast-moving consumer goods and pharmaceuticals. Her professional work often intersects with psychology, especially in advertising and brand image, as well as in understanding the mental health challenges faced by patients in drug trials.
At New College, Jun was impressed by the resources available to students and the support offered by faculty. She particularly admired Professors Trudy Cole and Nicole Roberts, who taught her about cognitive psychology and emotions, respectively. Their courses emphasized critical thinking, independent research, and practical applications of psychological principles.
Question: What was your moment that inspired you to study psychology and what made you choose New College?
Answer: I think that psychology is helping me a lot. When I face difficulties in my life, I seek answers and solutions, and I find very relaxing moments when I read psychology books. This interest drives me to pursue a deeper understanding of psychology. I started studying at ASU through their online program because my new college offered a psychology program in my country. I compared it with other majors and found that psychology was the one I was really interested in, so I chose it.
Q: What motivated you the most to come from Shanghai to study psychology in the U.S.?
A: Actually, I took my online class in 2012 when I was under 21, before COVID-19. At that time, I was also working professionally in a company, so I used my spare time, especially weekends, for online study. It was a very flexible schedule for me, and I really liked the two-year online program. I learned a lot, and it helped me significantly with my family, career, and business. That's why, when my new college offered most of its programs on campus, I immediately applied to make my dream come true.
Q: Can you tell me more about your professional life? How are you using psychology in your professional life?
A: I have about 20 years of work experience at the managerial level in several multinational companies. I have worked in two major pathways: fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and fast consumer products, both of which are closely linked to psychology, especially in advertising, promotion, and brand image. My recent experience is in the pharmaceutical industry, where we help patients enroll in new drug trials to access the most advanced technology in the field, potentially saving their lives. During this time, I observed that patients often suffer from not only physical problems but also mental health issues.
Q: What's something you learned here at New College that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: I noticed a huge difference between the education systems in these two countries. I think ASU has made a lot of effort to provide resources to students. It's open to everyone, and you can ask for help and access whatever resources you need, not only through the ASU library but also through the faculty and other departments. This is something that really attracted me.
Here, it's your own responsibility to be clear about what you want to achieve and what your goals are. You should drive yourself to reach those goals. The university provides all the resources and help you need, but it's up to you to take responsibility for your own success.
Q: What professor taught you the most important lesson and what was that lesson?
A: I have had the privilege of learning from many professors whom I admire. One standout is Trudy Cole. Her cognitive psychology class fascinated me because it delved into the science behind the mind. I appreciated how it provided concrete evidence rather than mere speculation. Understanding cognitive science has profoundly impacted my beliefs and perspectives.
Another memorable experience was with Professor Nicole Roberts during the campus program. Her course on emotions was structured exceptionally well. She offered ample resources for academic reading, fostering critical thinking skills crucial for graduate students. Additionally, her emphasis on student presentations encouraged independent research and learning. Through this format, I gained valuable insights from my peers. Professor Roberts also organized engaging events like the Brown Bag Series, enriching our educational experience beyond the classroom.
Q: What kind of research did you do while you were at New College ?
A: Currently, I'm working on emotion regulation, particularly for young men. I've also observed that the government offers programs to assist young mothers and families, educating them on healthy relationships and emotion regulation techniques. I believe this is crucial for children growing up in such environments. It's an area I'm deeply passionate about.
Q: Would you say that the interest comes from your own family, the school?
A: I think that the challenges faced by young parents are universal, especially when they navigate their roles as mothers and fathers with their first baby. They require more support to handle such situations effectively. In my country, there's immense pressure due to work and social competition, adding to their stress. I want to assist them in understanding what constitutes a healthy relationship and how changing their mindset and behavior can make a difference. Not only will this benefit them personally, but it will also positively impact their children and other family members. There's a high demand for this kind of support, and I am eager to help meet it.
Q: What piece of advice do you have for someone considering college and coming abroad to the U.S.?
A: I believe I greatly benefited from this program and think it should be introduced in my country. I have already shared information about it with my colleagues, some of whom have taken the online MBA courses and graduated in the last two years, even attending the ceremony in person. I will continue to promote this information to those who haven't heard about it yet because it's never too late to learn, regardless of age. With a passion for learning, anyone can take advantage of this opportunity. The flexibility of the online program allows individuals to manage their jobs while studying. During my program in Mexico, I met people from other states who were also participating in the online courses.
Q: What would you say to a student considering this major, what would make a good candidate for a psychology major?
A: I think it's important for everyone to maintain overall health, which includes not just physical and economic health but also mental health. Psychology is a crucial part of life, not just for academic study but for various aspects of daily living. Having a background in psychology helps you understand why you and others think and act in certain ways, fostering mutual understanding and self-improvement. This journey of understanding oneself is lifelong and is closely linked with philosophy, both contributing significantly to a person's well-being throughout life.