At the International Campus, Zhejiang University,
Yap Yean Ye (叶婉儿) from Malaysia
has spent four years crafting a rich and colorful journey.
From excelling in academic studies to thriving in student organizations,
The abundant campus resources broadened her horizons,
and the diverse cultural atmosphere fostered her growth,
helping her push beyond her boundaries through exchange and interaction.
Let's step into this journey together —
a story of discipline and freedom, of exploration and growth.
—— 叶婉儿 Yap Yean Ye ——
- Class of 2021 in Global Communication and Management (GCM) of Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS)
- Recipient of the “Outstanding International Student” Award, Zhejiang University (2021–2022 & 2022–2023)
- Choosing the International Campus: A Seed Drawn to Fertile Soil -
After completing her A-Level exams, Yap Yean Ye faced a common yet daunting question—where to go to university? For a time, she felt lost. As she researched universities and programs across different countries, she hoped to find a platform that would allow her to explore multiple disciplines while leaving room to discover her interests. By chance, she came across the Global Communication and Management (GCM) program offered by Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS). "The GCM program focuses on cultivating interdisciplinary talent, combining academic rigor with practical training — this philosophy resonated deeply with me," she recalled. Like a seed drawn to fertile soil, Yap Yean Ye found herself at the vibrant International Campus, Zhejiang University, where she began a journey of learning, growth, and self-discovery.
- Studying at iZJU:Growing Through Both Freedom and Discipline -
Shanghai enterprise visit
For Yap Yean Ye, one of the defining features of the GCM program is the freedom it offers students to manage their schedules. The flexible course structure allowed her to make the most of her spare time and dive deeper into personal interests.
"The school provides us with a wealth of platforms and opportunities — from professional lectures to field visits — giving us hands-on exposure to real-world industries. In addition, many exchange programs with domestic and international universities help broaden our horizons," she shared.
However, behind the relaxed course schedule lies the challenge of self-discipline and time management. Freedom does not mean indulgence; it requires scientific planning and personal responsibility — something Yap Yean Ye has come to understand deeply. In her daily studies, she carefully creates schedules to ensure steady progress on all fronts. This environment, she believes, has taught her how to strike a balance between teamwork and independent thinking. In group projects, she actively contributes creative ideas, while also reserving alone time to stay focused and productive on individual tasks.
During her studies, she also felt deeply supported by the faculty and fellow students at the International Campus. Whether she faced academic challenges or the ups and downs of studying abroad, the teachers were always there to offer timely guidance. Everyone exuded warmth, passion, and kindness from the classmates she saw every day to the professors in the classroom. In this nurturing environment, she not only gained solid academic knowledge but also discovered the joy of personal growth.
- From Online to On-Campus:Breaking Boundaries Through Artistic Exchange -
ISAG Concert
The unique experience of starting university life online during the pandemic encouraged Yap Yean Ye to actively expand her social boundaries. She joined the International Student Art Group (ISAG) at Zhejiang University and began by helping organize virtual events, gradually building a cross-campus, cross-cultural communication network.
As campus life returned to normal, her involvement deepened. She not only helped plan and carry out a wide range of artistic activities, but also supported the International College of Zhejiang University during the Hangzhou Asian Games by assisting in the selection of international volunteers.
To her, ISAG served as a window into creative expression across diverse cultural backgrounds. It not only honed her practical skills in event planning but also connected her with like-minded friends who shared the same passions.
- Cross-Cultural Practice: A Transformation from Participant to Leader -
MSAZ gathering
Driven by a spirit of open-minded exploration, Yap Yean Ye joined the Malaysian Student Association in Zhejiang (MSAZ) in her third year. As Vice President, she actively helped build bridges of cooperation with the Malaysian Embassy in China and other university student associations, strengthening inter-organizational dialogue and cultural exchange.
As a business student, she also formed an interdisciplinary team with three fellow international students to participate in the 2nd Kubuqi Award: International Competition on Desert Sustainable Development. The team, composed of members from both business and science backgrounds, started entirely from scratch. "When we had to tackle unfamiliar subjects, it required extra effort to absorb new knowledge," Yap shared. "But the learning process was fresh and exciting." Their team ultimately became the only overseas group to reach the finals and was awarded an Excellence Prize. This experience taught her that the compatibility of working styles among team members is often more critical than academic background. No matter how brilliant an idea is, it may never take shape if the team can’t collaborate effectively. This insight led her to place greater emphasis on early-stage communication in future collaborations, ensuring alignment of goals from the outset.
- Journeying Through China: A Resonance Between Footsteps and the Heart -
During her university years, Yap Yean Ye took every opportunity to travel across China in her spare time. From the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai to the serene landscapes of Guilin, from the familiar tastes of Guangdong to the fiery cuisine of Chongqing, she explored the country’s diversity one step at a time. "The footprints I’ve left across China have made me love this country even more," she reflected.
——— ♦ ———
Looking back on her university journey, Yap Yean Ye sums it up in two words: "growth and happiness." "The International Campus gave me not only the courage to explore, but also fertile ground to grow," she said.
To incoming students, her message is simple yet powerful: "Life doesn’t come with a replay button, but every moment is a chance to write a new chapter. I hope we all dare to follow where our hearts lead us."
Article and Photography: Yap Yean Ye
Editing: Yong Yi Sian, Tan Ze Yue, LI Songjiao
Editing in charge: LI Yinan
Reviewer: YANG Yi
Final Review: QU Haidong