GLOBAL BUSINESS JOURNALISM NEWSLETTER
August-September 2024
New Faces in the GBJ Family, Students Share Their Excitement for China, Professor Wang Returns, and Your Complete Guide to Tsinghua University—Plus More!
By VICKI CHALERMLAPVORABOON
Global Business Journalism reporter
Dear readers, cue the welcoming —because this semester is back, and so am I! Picture this: the misty mornings, the crisp air, and the ambience gives a serious feeling of a scene from Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight film saga. Beijing has got me feeling like I’m living in one of their movies, and honestly, I’m here for it.
But the real excitement? We’ve got fresh faces in the GBJ family to embark on another unforgettable semester together.
1. Welcome to the GBJ family, New Students of 2024!
This winter, the cold won’t stand a chance — we've got new members to keep the GBJ family warm and buzzing. Let’s raise a virtual glass (or a cup) to our 14 brand-new students who’ve jetted in from all over the globe — Argentina, Russia, Thailand, Poland and more. Diverse backgrounds, different passions, but all united by their interest in journalism.
Zuza Bialas, all the way from Poland, shares her excitement: “I chose the GBJ program in hope that it will bridge the gaps between my main areas of interests, by combining knowledge of international business, Chinese economic growth and journalism.”
“My curiosity about the world, commitment to searching for the truth, and a desire to make a positive impact on society are also factors that made me choose the Global Business Journalism program,” she added.
Equally enthusiastic, Jhane Cago, from the Philippines, noted: “I’m particularly excited to up-skill in finance and economics, and I can’t wait to explore how China’s perspective on media and communication differs from the rest of the world.”
2. Back by popular demand: Professor Wang rejoins Global Business Journalism
Hong Kong business journalist Wang Feng is returning to Tsinghua as a visiting professor this semester. He’s the editor-in-chief of the Financial Times’ Chinese edition, and trust me, his Basic News Writing course is one you won’t want to miss.
Whether you're interested in investigative journalism or business reporting, Professor Wang’s classes are the one to go to.
He manages an editorial team of 30 FTChinese staffers in Beijing, London, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Before joining the FT, he was in charge of editorial content on all digital platforms at the South China Morning Post from 2012 to 2015. He was an editorial board member of the Society of Publishers in Asia from 2016 to 2019.
Earlier work experience included stints at Reuters, Caijing, China Daily and Xinhua News Service.
Welcome back, Professor! We’re delighted to have you with us again, sharing your invaluable expertise!
3. New Beginnings, New Adventures: What the incoming Class of 2024 is excited about
It feels like just yesterday that I was the one nervously unpacking in a new city, wide-eyed and ready for adventure. The thrill of meeting new people, finding your crew, and diving into a fresh culture. And now, it’s time for our new students to have their moment.
Bakhtawar Tauseef, from Pakistan, is excited to dive into global business trends during her time in GBJ, but don’t be surprised if you see her exploring China’s rich culture, Beijing’s hutongs and indulging in some serious tea culture.
Rey Wong, from Malaysia, looks forward to mastering storytelling while also planning adventurous hitchhiking for unique traveling experiences across China.
And Emiel Bessem? The Belgian student is ready to unlock his inner creative writer, all while savoring the best of Chinese cuisine and culture.
4. Been There, Done That: Advice from our second-year GBJers
Now, if anyone knows how to survive and thrive at Tsinghua, it’s the second-year students. They’ve braved the early-morning classes, the endless homework, and, somehow, they’re still standing (and thriving).
“The GBJ program will truly prepare you for the future in many ways," says Corazon Scheppy from the USA, "People, including the professors and faculty members, are always there to guide you and help when needed.”
Christina Yang, also from the United States, recommends diving into campus life.
“Take advantage of clubs, attend lectures," she advises. "Make the most of Tsinghua’s resources.”
This is an amazing gateway to meet new people and students from all over the world who can add fun to your campus life, she adds.
5. A complete guide to your life on the Tsinghua campus and in Beijing
For those who don’t know yet, allow me to say it once more — GBJ has a list for you, and it's helpful for international students, even if you're not a GBJ student.
Not sure where to grab the best coffee? Or how to unwind after a long day of classes? Fear not, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a handy list of all the must-visit spots on campus and off-campus. This list could be your new best friend.
So stay tuned for updates, as this list is ever-evolving.
6. Catch up on other headlines from GlobalBusinessJournalism.com
Even though students were not on campus, the Global Business Journalism website was still at work. Here are links to some of the stories we published, in case you've missed them before reading our GBJ newsletter:
Thanks for reading the delayed August-September GBJ newsletter. We'll be back soon with more news and views from a new staff of newsletter contributors. If you want to be the first to read each GBJ newsletter, subscribe here and receive an email notification when a new newsletter is published.
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