From Motherhood to Academia: Qi Jinyan’s Journey in Policy Studies
“If you have a dream, don’t wait for the 'perfect' moment—start now!”
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Driven by a passion for creating meaningful societal change through policy research, Qi Jinyan embarked on her doctoral journey at the School of Graduate Studies (GS) of Lingnan University (Lingnan). Holding two master’s degrees in unrelated fields, she chose Lingnan for its commitment to academic excellence and its supportive environment for students balancing multiple responsibilities. “My eldest son was only five months old when I decided to enrol in the DPS programme,” she recalls — a bold step that ultimately define her experience.
The supportive community at GS proved to be not just helpful but truly transformative for Jinyan, as both a mother and a scholar. The academic staff in the GS offered not only intellectual guidance but also flexibility and encouragement, enabling her to balance rigorous research with family life. Her cohort also became an invaluable support network, where fellow students shared both childcare tips and scholarly insights. This nurturing atmosphere fostered her academic development and profound personal growth.
For Jinyan, her journey has been inseparable from her family’s own evolution. Each of her children has, in different ways, shaped and inspired her research — particularly in early childhood education — transforming lived experiences into academic strength. Her research and family life have become two parallel journeys that enrich each other.
Her achievements were further recognised in 2023, when she was selected for the Postgraduate Summer School at the University of Oxford. “It was the first time I had been away from my children for more than two days, yet they coped brilliantly,” she reflects with a smile. During her doctoral research proposal presentation, she included photographs of her children — a touching reminder of the twin strands of her life. That moment, blending family pride with academic endeavour, remains one of her most treasured memories.
Looking ahead, Jinyan encourages current students to pursue their aspirations without delay: “Never fear starting anew. The most unexpected paths often lead to the richest destinations, and what may seem like detours can become your greatest strengths.” Her story stands as a testament to resilience, and the quiet strength of pursuing one’s purpose, even when life is at its busiest.