In June 2023, students from the NYU Stern-NYU Shanghai Master’s programs began their academic journey at NYU Stern in New York City. Throughout the summer from June until mid-August, they enhanced their learning, broadened their perspectives, and connected with peers in and outside of the classroom.
Academics
All students enrolled in 13.5 credits of foundational courses taught by leading faculty from NYU Stern. Faculty integrated simulations, discussions, and field trips to help them understand and master the course content. Students also had the opportunity to interact with academic and capstone directors during casual lunch meetings and office hours to share their academic interests and career goals, and ask questions and seek advice.
For example, Kexin Fu, student in the MS in Marketing and Retail Science (MSMRS) Class of 2024, expressed her gratitude for Xiao Liu, professor of Data-Driven Decision-Making: “Professor Liu invited the Global Chief Analytics Officer at Pfizer to give us practical insights into data analytics and AI during her course. Given my interest in data analytics, I also discussed my career interests with Professor Liu outside of the classroom. Her encouragement and advice boosted my self-confidence.”
Career Development & Company Visits
Students took advantage of the resources and services provided by the NYU Shanghai Center for Career Development (CCD) to begin to explore career options, hone their resume, and begin preparation for the fall recruitment season. During the CCD’s visit to Stern, students conducted self-assessment and had one-on-one advising sessions with career coaches. Students also participated in workshops that focused on technical interview skills and career readiness skills, and joined the distinguished industry speaker series to network with professionals working in different industries. Edwin Shen, current student in the MS in Quantitative Finance (MSQF) program, shared that he already gained new skills and insights from CCD programming and events: “Guided by Ji Tang, one of the CCD career coaches, I not only made substantial improvements in crafting my resume and cover letter, but also gained a clearer understanding of my professional aspirations and developmental roadmap.”
To learn more about US corporate culture and different industries, students visited a variety of local companies. Click here to see the Summer 2023 company visits.
Social Events
Outside of the classroom, students got to know and explore NYC and American culture. In June, students went on a walking tour in Manhattan’s Chinatown where they visited the Chinese Opera House, Funeral Row, Columbus Park, and the first tenement building in New York City where they learned the stories of American Chinese, a historically marginalized community. On July 7, they went to the legendary Yankee Stadium to watch the New York Yankees play the Chicago Cubs in a baseball game. Though the Yankees lost, students still enjoyed partaking in the classic American pastime; for many students, this was their first time attending a professional baseball game. Students also went on a guided Circle Line Sightseeing Boat Cruise tour on July 28, seeing many famous landmarks on both the Hudson and East Rivers, including the Statue of Liberty, while enjoying the breathtaking views of Manhattan. During the final week, students attended an end of summer lunch celebration with faculty and staff, and took a break from studying for exams to enjoy pizza out on the plaza outside of Stern.
Students visiting Columbus Park in Chinatown, one of NYC’s oldest parks.
Students watching the baseball game at Yankee Stadium.
Students on the Circle Line sightseeing boat cruise.
Students chatting with each other at the end of summer celebration.
Cohort Events
Throughout the summer, students organized their own group activities, such as going to the movies, visiting a local Jazz bar, and playing trivia. In July, each program selected their cohort leader, who is the class representative responsible for building cohort cohesion. The cohort leaders met frequently with each other and with the program staff to plan events and share student feedback, and will continue to do so as the students move to Shanghai for the fall and spring semesters. Michelle Su, MS in Organization Management and Strategy (MSOMS) Class of 2024, commented: “The bonding within the cohort has been exceptional and we all enjoy each other’s company. Every event, whether formal or casual, has been an amazing opportunity to connect on deeper levels, share diverse perspectives, and build lasting relationships.”
MSQF students visiting the American Museum of Natural History (left) and singing Karaoke (right).
MS in Data Analytics and Business Computing (MSDABC) students at Summit One Vanderbilt, one of the tallest skyscrapers in Manhattan.
MSOMS students fishing together at Jamaica Bay (left) and playing trivia at a local bar (right).
MRMRS students celebrating a student’s birthday at a local restaurant.
Cohort leaders in front of Stern
Looking Ahead
After a two-week break to travel and see family and friends, students will head to China and begin their Fall semester at NYU Shanghai on September 1. Han Seung Chai, MSDABC Class of 2024, is very excited about the next semester: “I honestly do not know what to expect because I’ve never been to Shanghai. But I was told by students from NYU Shanghai and the students who came from there that it is a great place to be and that Shanghai is such a wonderful city with lots of opportunities, as well as great food and nice parks.”