During the Nankai University Foreign Language Festival, the Student Career Development and Planning Center of the School of Foreign Studies (SFS) at Nankai University, in collaboration with the Nankai Foreign Languages Alumni Association, organized an alumni roundtable titled "Face-to-Face Roundtable with Alumni: Multiple Career Possibilities for Foreign Language Majors." The event, held in Lecture Hall 111, aimed to offer diverse perspectives on career opportunities for students preparing to enter the workforce. It encouraged participants to engage directly with distinguished alumni from various industries, inspiring students to identify their professional interests, set clear career goals, and strategically plan their employment paths.
Exploring Diverse Career Paths to Broaden Horizons
Six alumni representatives from fields including diplomacy and public security, finance and health, automotive policy research, international communication and philanthropy, taxation and legal services, and media and artificial intelligence shared their professional experiences and insights, providing students with a vivid depiction of potential career paths.
Liu Tongping, a Russian major from the class of 1980, highlighted the critical role of foreign languages in diplomatic and public security work. He emphasized that language skills are indispensable in international cooperation and overseas exchanges, advising students to strengthen their language foundations, keep a keen eye on global affairs, and broaden the international perspectives.
Wen Chengfeng, a Japanese major from the class of 1980, recounted his career transition from foreign languages to the finance industry, underscoring the importance of combining language skills with professional knowledge. He recommended that students enhance their writing and communication abilities to thrive in diverse international work environments.
Huang Yonghe, a Japanese major from the class of 1982 and a senior expert in automotive policy research, emphasized the global trends in the new energy vehicle sector. He encouraged students to stay informed about industry developments and leverage their language skills to expand their career opportunities.
Cai Yintong, a Russian major from the class of 1996, focused on the profound impact of foreign languages in international communication and philanthropic activities. He encouraged students to effectively utilize their language abilities to promote intercultural exchanges and social engagement.
Jiang Daoguang, a Japanese major from the class of 1999, shared his experiences working in government departments, stressing essential qualities for careers in public service. He advised students to enhance their professional competencies and identify their unique strengths for career breakthroughs.
Ma Jianlong, a Chinese language graduate from the class of 2012, highlighted the mutual empowerment of technology and language, urging students to integrate digital technology with their language learning to unlock broader career possibilities.
Interactive Guidance for Career Development
During the event, alumni engaged in in-depth discussions with students, offering valuable advice on selecting career paths, building personal competitiveness, and improving interview skills. Many students expressed that the event provided practical career guidance, as well as significant encouragement and support from experienced alumni, thereby strengthening their confidence in future careers.
This activity not only facilitated meaningful career discussions but also actively supported students' exploration of future opportunities. SFS plans to continue providing more opportunities for interaction between students and accomplished alumni, empowering students to confidently embark on their professional journeys.