At the International College(IC) of Xiamen University(XMU), a group of outstanding students — recipients of the 2025 Yanbao Scholarship, XMU — stand out with their brilliance. Five students from IC have recently been honored with this award, and their inspiring stories will be shared in the coming days. Today we’ll introduce Zhang Jiayu, a student from class of 2023, major in Financial Services.

Profile:

Zhang Jiayu, a student from the major of Financial Services, Class of 2023, achieved the top rank (1/111) in the major for the 2024–2025 academic year, with an average course score of 92.25 and a GU1 grade of A. She serves as the class monitor, the Secretary of the Youth League Branch for the 2023 SQA Programme, and the rotating head of the Culture and Entertainment Department within the Student Development Center of IC.

Honors and Awards:

Yan Bao Scholarship of Xiamen University (2025),

Academic Excellence Scholarship of International College (First Class, 2024-2025),

Star of Social Work,

Star of Cultural and Sports Activities,

Second Prize in the Xiamen University Docents’ Competition (2025),

Best Presentation Award (First Place Nationwide) in the inaugural English Presentation Competition of the SQA Program

Internship Experience: Internship at Zhongtai Securities Co., Ltd.

A solid foundation laid by diligent study and inspiring guidance by virtuous mentors

During my study at IC, XMU, I consistently pursued my major with a rigorous and pragmatic attitude, and the careful guidance of my teachers further laid a solid foundation for my academic journey.

In the Business Law: An Introduction course taught by Ms Tang Feng, she used vivid and interesting commercial law cases to deconstruct legal logic and business rules, transforming dry legal provisions into accessible knowledge. This helped me develop a systematic commercial legal thinking, established a comprehensive legal framework for further studies, and laid a crucial foundation for my academic pursuits.

Lai Xiongchuan exemplifies rigorous scholarship and meticulous instruction. In the core courses of Financial Services and Business Accounting, he broke down each concept with clarity and depth, making difficult subjects accessible. He patiently addressed all my questions, and through his rigorous approach, helped me strengthen my professional foundation and cultivate a habit of continuous improvement—paving the way for my higher-level studies and practical applications.

Ms Chen Jingjing offered me ongoing support and careful guidance throughout the GU2 course. Amid the challenges and revision demands of GU2 writing, she was consistently dedicated—answering each of my questions, and patiently walking me through how to clarify my ideas, improve the structure, and fine-tune the details, enabling me to steadily overcome the obstacles.

Grow in practice, shine in many ways

While excelling in my studies, I actively participated in diverse practical endeavors, cultivating my skills in different roles and enabling my youth to shine through dedicated effort.

Student work: Taking responsibility, lighting up the campus

As class monitor, Youth League branch secretary, and rotating head of the Culture and Entertainment Department, I have always upheld the original aspiration of serving my fellow students while efficiently coordinating various affairs. I assisted teachers in tasks such as Youth League member management and class building, establishing a solid bridge for communication between students and faculty. I participated in various college-organized events and hosted more than ten activities, including the college's 20th-anniversary gala, the 'Tan Kah Kee Spirit Shines on Nanqiang, Studying Abroad to Serve the Nation' cultural gala, and alumni sharing sessions. With a poised and commanding stage presence, as well as smooth and professional hosting skills, I added luster to campus events."

Competition Practice: Grow by competing, shine with ability

I actively participated in various competitions, improving myself and spreading positive energy.

I participated in the flag-raising ceremony celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China at Zhangzhou Campus and served as a reciter, paying tribute to our motherland with a heartfelt voice and conveying the patriotic sentiments of young people.

I secured second prize (the 4th place) in the: “Recite, Inherit, Spread — Telling the XMU Story” Docent Competition, XMU, conveying the university's spirit and stories through vivid, compelling narration.

At the inaugural British Higher Education Diploma Programme English Expression Presentation Event under the theme “Understanding Chinese Symbols, Telling China's Stories Well”, I won the “Best Expression Award” the highest overall score. Through fluent English, I presented the charm of Chinese culture to a global audience.

Volunteering: A Commitment in action, bringing warmth to others

Always mindful of my social responsibility, I proactively took part in volunteer work. On two occasions, I served as a volunteer guide at the Lin Zexu Anti-Drug Education Base in Longyan City. During my explanations, I drew on my professional knowledge and compelling case studies to share anti-drug information and recount the history of drug prevention efforts. With patience and passion, I helped reinforce the anti-drug awareness campaign, using tangible actions to contribute to the ant-drugs cause of my hometown and spread positive social energy.

Professional internship: Integrating knowledge with practice

To transform professional knowledge into practical skills, I interned as a Financial Manager Assistant at Zhongtai Securities Co., Ltd. in January 2026. During the internship, I assisted the account managers in maintaining client relationships, organized sales feedback, and statistically analyzing relevant business data, efficiently completing various tasks assigned by the department. By applying the international finance knowledge learned in the classroom to actual work, I deepened my professional understanding through practice, accumulated valuable industry experience, and laid a solid foundation for my future career development.

Study tour experience: Expanding global perspectives

In the summer of 2025, I took part in a study exchange program at the University of Kent in the UK. Immersing myself in a different academic culture and engaging with international students helped me improve my language proficiency, broaden my global outlook, and gain unique experiences for future cross-cultural growth.

Messages to fellow students

“Great achievements start from small beginnings, and perseverance leads to success.” This belief has guided me, and I want to share it with my fellow students. Don't be in a hurry to chase far-off dreams — first, take every step solidly. Delve in your study, grow through practice, and give back through service. Master the small things, and you will steadily move forward on your youth journey, finally arriving at the landscapes of your heart.