Building Foundations for Public Service: Xu's Milestone Year of Growth
“The master's programme at Lingnan University’s School of Graduate Studies aligns closely with the requirements of civil servant exams in Chinese Mainland. My year at Lingnan was a period of significant academic and professional growth, which enabled me to progress with greater confidence on my path toward a career in the public sector.”
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Chen Xu’s experience in the Master of China and Regional Development Studies (CRDS) programme at Lingnan University’s School of Graduate Studies (GS) was intensive yet profoundly rewarding. She said, “In this course, I had the opportunity to delve deeply into China’s history, culture, politics, and economic development, while also analysing interactions and influences in surrounding regions and beyond.”
While the CRDS programme covers a rich spectrum of topics, what Xu appreciated most was the unwavering support from the academic staff, “The curriculum was both profound and practical. Professors not only explained theoretical knowledge but also integrated the latest policy cases, helping us better understand real-world issues. They were always available to answer questions after class and often proactively shared academic resources. This approachable teaching style was incredibly beneficial.”
The mentorship deepened Xu’s interest in pursuing a career in policy and public affairs, while the programme served as a pivotal milestone in her journey toward public service. “The professional accreditation of the CRDS programme provided crucial support for my civil servant examination. This degree is recognised in the political science (A03 Law category). During the Zhejiang provincial civil servant examination, I opted for positions limited to political science and law majors, which significantly enhanced my competitiveness by aligning my academic background with the requirements of those roles.”
Academically, the CRDS programme prepared her exceptionally well for the exam process. The training in essay writing, policy evaluation, and structured analysis enabled her to present insightful perspectives rather than generic templates. “These advantages allowed me to excel in both the written examination and the interview, ultimately leading to my successful placement at a courthouse in Zhejiang province.”
Xu concluded her time at the GS represented far more than just an academic pursuit; it was a year of transformation that strengthened her policy literacy and clarified her long-term goals. Xu said, “For those looking to enter the public service field, CRDS programme not only provides a professionally recognised stepping stone but also cultivates genuinely useful policy thinking.”