Embracing change
A global journey through psychology education with Xiaoqian Yang (Yolanda)
By Mariana Lozovanu | June 6, 2024
Editor’ note:
Xiaoqian Yang (Yolanda) is an international graduate student who earned her master's degree in psychology from New College. Yolanda began her studies online while in Shanghai and later moved to the U.S. to study in person at the West Valley campus. She was inspired to study psychology due to its profound impact on understanding life's challenges. Her professional background includes 20 years as a manager in multinational companies in the FMCG and pharmaceutical industries, where she applied psychological principles to advertising, brand image, and patient support. Yolanda values the comprehensive resources and support offered by ASU, which helped her achieve her goals. She is passionate about lifelong learning and promoting educational opportunities, believing psychology's insights into behavior and thought processes are crucial for personal and professional growth.
Question: What was the moment that inspired you to study psychology?
Answer: The moment that inspired me to study psychology was when I realized how helpful it was in understanding and dealing with life's challenges. Reading psychology books gave me moments of relaxation and a deep desire to learn more. This passion led me to enroll in an online psychology program. After exploring various majors, I found that New College offers a psychology program that perfectly aligns with my interests and goals. Comparing it with other options, I knew this was the field I was truly passionate about.
Q: What made you want to come from Shanghai to the U.S. to study psychology?
A: I decided to come from Shanghai to the U.S. to study psychology because of my positive experience with an online program I took in 2012, before COVID-19. At that time, I was working professionally and used my spare time, especially weekends, to study online. The flexibility of the schedule was perfect for me, and I really enjoyed the two-year program. It significantly helped me in my personal life, career, and business. When I discovered that New College had a comprehensive psychology program on campus, I immediately applied. This opportunity allowed me to further pursue my dream of studying psychology in a more immersive and engaging environment.
Q: Can you tell me more about your professional life? Your business? What are you doing? And how are you using psychology in your professional life?
A: I have about 20 years of experience working as a manager in several multinational companies, primarily in FMCG and the pharmaceutical industry. In FMCG, my work involved advertising, promotions, and brand image, which are closely linked to psychology. Recently, in the pharmaceutical sector, I have been involved in helping patients enroll in new drug trials, providing them access to cutting-edge technology that can save lives. During this experience, I observed that many patients suffer from both physical and mental health issues, highlighting the importance of psychological support.
Q: What's something you learned here at New College that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: I noticed a huge difference in the education system between the USA and Shanghai.ASU actually spent a lot of effort on providing resources to the students. So it's open to everyone, and you can ask for help and, reach, whatever resource you want, not only through the ASU library, but also through the faculty and also through other departments if you need help. That's something that actually attracted me.You need to be very clear of what you want to be.What you want to achieve? What's your goal? You should be very clear about that. And you should drive yourself to reach that goal.I think the university can provide you with all the resources and help, but your success ultimately depends on your own efforts.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson and what was that lesson?
A: I love many of my professors. Trudy Cole's cognitive psychology class was particularly impactful because it links psychology with brain science, providing clear scientific evidence rather than just theory. This had a huge impact on me, changing my beliefs and perspectives. Another favorite professor is Nicole Roberts, who taught emotion. I appreciated her class structure, which included extensive academic reading to develop critical thinking and research skills. The class also involved student presentations on chosen topics, fostering peer learning. Additionally, she organized events like academic visits and the Brown Bag series for undergraduates, enhancing the educational experience.
Q: What piece of advice do you have for someone considering college and coming abroad to the US?
A: I have greatly benefited from this program and believe it could be valuable in my country. I’ve already introduced it to my colleagues, some of whom have enrolled in online MBA courses and even graduated, attending the ceremony in person. I will continue to promote this program because it’s never too late to learn, regardless of age or stage in life. ASU's online program offers flexibility, allowing people to study while working. During my program, I met peers from different states and countries, sharing diverse perspectives and backgrounds. I met some people from other countries like India or even East Asia, and East Europe.This diversity has been very encouraging and enriching.
Q: What would you say to a student, considering their major, what would make a good candidate for a psychology major?
A: I think it’s important for everyone to be healthy in all aspects—economically, physically, and mentally. Mental health is a crucial part of your overall well-being. Psychology isn’t just for academic study; it can be applied to many areas of life. Having a background in psychology helps you understand why you think the way you do and why others think differently. It fosters mutual understanding and self-improvement by providing insights into your own behavior and thought processes. This understanding is a lifelong journey, closely linked with philosophy, and contributes significantly to one’s overall well-being.
Q: Part of New College's name is the word “new”? How do you feel new?
A: I think "new" is a word that stands in contrast to "old." The old refers to something you already know, have, or are familiar with. But "new" is something you do not know or understand yet; it represents an opportunity. If you can admit that there are things you do not know or have not even considered knowing, you’ve already taken a big step forward. Acknowledging this is the first step, and then you can take action. The mindset should change first, and then action will follow. For New College, the name is fitting because it embodies the idea of embracing new things. People are often afraid of new experiences, but with bravery, a visionary outlook, and the expectation and inspiration to grow, you can embrace and become a part of the new.