I was born during the early years of China’s reform and opening up—a transformative period that reshaped the entire nation, including my hometown, Xi’an. Steeped in history, Xi’an served as the capital of thirteen dynasties and is home to the iconic Terracotta Warriors. Growing up in such a vibrant and historical city, I was constantly exposed to and made aware of the complex socio-economic forces that shaped our everyday lives. Observing rapid changes within the cultural landscape had fostered an early curiosity within me, which laid the foundation that would later define my academic journey. 

My interest in politics and policy eventually crystalized in high school, as it satiated my hunger to understand the logic behind social phenomena. As one of my favourite subjects, politics had transformed abstract concepts on governance and nationhood into tangible and nuanced realities. For instance, I vividly remember a class where our teacher explained China’s state-owned enterprise reforms and their massive impact, which led to the layoffs of millions of workers. This deeply struck me, as I realized how profoundly public policies could shape people’s lives. Questions like who makes these policies and why they are made began to intrigue me. While I did not yet envision pursuing a career in political science, looking back, I recognize that this was the moment the seed was planted.

When it was time to apply for college, I chose Political Science as my major. One of the happiest moments of my life was receiving my admission letter from the Department of Political Science and Public Administration (now the School of Government) at Peking University (PKU) —my dream university. At PKU, I had the privilege of learning from some of China’s most distinguished political scientists. Their insightful lectures and thought-provoking discussions left a lasting impression, inspiring me to delve deeply into the subject. I immersed myself in political theories, institutions, cultures, and systems while also exploring other disciplines, from biology to art history. Those four years were invaluable—not focused on grades or career prospects, but simply indulging in the joy of reading and discovery. They deepened my passion and set the foundation for my academic journey.

During my final undergraduate year, I interned at a global telecommunications company. The job was well-paying and relatively easy. However, deep down, I felt that something was missing. That experience helped me realize that my true calling lay in academia. While completing my graduate studies in Hong Kong, I learned from highly respected scholars in Chinese politics and public policy, who became inspiring role models. Their passion for teaching and research, combined with their genuine care for students and commitment to public affairs, further affirmed my desire to follow in their footsteps. The intellectually stimulating and open academic environment in Hong Kong gave me ample space to freely explore uncharted territories in the realm of knowledge. During those years, I pursued broader yet more focused reading, gaining a deeper understanding of my field of study. After earning my PhD, I was thrilled to start my first teaching job. The joy and fulfillment I find in sharing knowledge and conducting research continue to define my academic career, as it aligns with many of my life’s passions.

 

Outside of work, my biggest hobby is reading. I find great comfort and peace in curling up with a book and a cup of coffee. Beyond academic texts, I enjoy novels, science fiction, history, and news magazines. I also cherish spending time with my family. I do many things together with my child, such as making creative breakfasts, watching movies, playing sports, and exploring Singapore’s beautiful parks, libraries, and bookstores. Like many in academia, I face the big challenge of maintaining a work-life balance, given the blurred boundaries between work and personal time in this career. Yet, I firmly believe in spending quality time with family, no matter how busy life gets.

To today’s youth, especially those in academia: Take steady and solid steps forward and resist the urge to rush for quick success. In our fast-paced and often restless world, many young people pack their lives with goals, treating their attainment as the ultimate purpose while forgetting the reasons they entered academia in the first place. This is a case of “hitting the targets and missing the points.” In academic research, building a strong foundation, studying diligently, accumulating knowledge, and thinking critically will naturally lead to the results you desire. Stay true to your initial aspirations, and you will find genuine joy in the path you’ve chosen.

 

-  Associate Professor Gao Jie, Department of Political Science; CFPR Steering Committee Member, FASS, National University of Singapore

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