Michelle Zhang

Student headshot, JMSC/ Michelle Zhang

My name is Zhang Yujia, though many prefer to address me as Michelle. While I generally refrain from putting labels on individuals or concepts, the MBTI——Myers–Briggs Type Indicator, a theoretical model of personality type, is an efficient tool to provide a brief introduction for those unfamiliar with me. I’m an ENFP by MBTI standards, which means Extrovert, Intuition, Feeling, and Perceiving, offering a glimpse into my personality and a foundational understanding of my character.

I come from Chengdu, Sichuan, China, a city I deeply cherish. Chengdu represents a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, offering a conducive living environment and a welcoming cultural atmosphere. Renowned for its laid-back approach to life, personified by tea-sipping and mahjong sessions, the city is also a melting pot of various lifestyles. The vibrant nightlife is especially appealing to the youth.

My life has been enriched by various experiences, primarily driven by my adventurous spirit. Academically, I was an active participant in campus activities. My crowning achievement were serving on the student union and leading the department to organize campus cultural events, engaging thousands of students. Witnessing my designation as the director on the credits rolling on the big screen at the end of the event has always been a pride. Beyond academia, my internships spanned various media domains, from the government media to internet giant. These experiences not only enriched my understanding of media landscapes but also provided me a clear mind about my vocational aspirations. Moreover, leisure holds a special place in my heart. My various hobbies, including dancing, travelling, designing and so on, are more than mere pastimes. They’re the avenues through which I recharge and I am always willing to put every effort on what I want to do.

I’ve always had a deep-seated passion for journalism, seeing it as an important stepping stone for my future career in the media industry. In fact, my aspirations have been clear since my middle school years. When the vital moment came to submit my preferences for the college entrance exam – I took a bold step. Despite my parents’ objections, I secretly chose the School of Journalism and Communication, an institution I had long dreamt of attending. My fascination with the media is not just surface-level. I’m convinced that a journalistic education not only expands one’s worldview but also provides profound insights into different events. To me, this academic pursuit isn’t merely about mastering a subject; it’s an avenue for better personal improvement. I’m optimistic that after the semester, I’ll have fortified my professional foundations, readying me for the next stages of my career journey.