10 years on where are they now?
We would like to show you some real life adventure stories of our alumni from BCIS Class of 2013. We heard so many stories about this cohort, quotes from their teachers, “They are a very promising class of students.” “Their SAT result is super high” … Let’s find out together what are they doing now! BCIS Alumni Relations Team (Gaia and Annie) invited 2 students from Grade 8 to collaborate on this newsletter project, they got involved from preparing the interview until editing articles. This became a very special and inspiring learning experience for them, at the same time, we realized how important personalization in education is and how valuable it is to individual growth.
A huge thank you to BCIS Student Editorial Team and all alumni who contributed their time and stories.
#personalization #cosmopolitan education #BCIS community 我们即将呈现给你一些
2013 级毕业生跌宕起伏的人生冒险旅程。在此之前就听说了很多关于他们的故事，有老师说这 是前途不可限量的一届学生，还有老师说他们的 SAT 平均成绩很高，印象深刻。那让我们来一探究竟吧，今年校友关 系发展团队 Gaia 和 Annie, 邀请了两名中学生一同来企划这次的新闻通讯，来自 8 年级的 Coco 和 Helen，从前期准 备到采访再到文章的反复修订，几乎参与了全部过程。回顾这次经历，学生们从中获得了很多启发的同时也带给了文章 不同的视角与观点，而且从采访中我们更为深刻地理解了为什么个性化教育对于个人成长来说如此重要。
非常感谢 BCIS 学生社论俱乐部的同学的贡献，以及在百忙中抽时间和我们线上见面采访并提供素材的校友们。
毕业十年，他们现在在哪
After graduating BCIS, Jing attended NYU Stern School of Business to study 3 majors: Finance, Statistics, and Philosophy. In April 2022, he quit his job and visited family in Beijing due to the pandemic. Jing is currently working at a cross border payment
Jing Hao
company traveling between Hangzhou and New York. In the meanwhile, he is working in his own company and studio where he does graphical design and practices some of his hobbies.
The path of becoming a banker
At New York University, Jing studied Finance, Statistics, and Philosophy. Finance was because he was still unsure about what he enjoyed or what he was passionate about, and it was the major that allowed him to have a steady and reasonable income after college. It made the most sense for him while he was in high school. While at NYU, Jing tried very hard in college to maintain good grades. He also constantly tried to seek internship opportunities and eventually received an offer from the Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS). The experience was quite challenging and often stressful, requiring him to work late into the night. However, Jing was able to persist, which gave his career a good start.
Jing notes that he has no regrets about choosing these majors in university since they helped him to get to where he is now. Jing believes that choosing your college major doesn’t really matter, your life path will always change. But whatever you end up choosing, always work your best at it.
Go with the flow, halfhalf Studio
One of the greatest adversities Jing encountered was
constantly switching jobs. After Jing worked at his first job for three years as a financer, he worked as an engineer and then a product manager before going back to China visit his family, after that he started woodwork and graphic design and working in a nonprofit. Every time Jing shifted to a different career, he felt like he was starting over again, realizing he had so much more to learn.
Jing is pleased with what he has accomplished so far. As he ages, he realizes that things won't always go your way, and sometimes you can't control where life takes you. There will be downturns and upturns, but one should never face challenges with a negative attitude. Jing says everything eventually worked out for him. He advises us that "difficulties to overcome right now might be a blessing in disguise for the long run." After gaining experience from high school, university, internships, and more, Jing explains that the exact choices you make in school don't really matter. Choose something that you truly enjoy learning in university and worry about work and careers afterward. There will be plenty of time for you to change.
halfhalf is a company that Jing founded with his girlfriend, operating at the studio “Eaves.” Jing mainly uses it to work on his hobbies, such as woodworking
and graphic design. The initial goal for halfhalf was to provide a shelter or haven for international citizens who, just like Jing and the company name, come from entirely different backgrounds, and give them a place to introduce their heritage uniquely.
The name stands for "Half east, Half west" or the Chinese phrase " 半俗半雅 ." halfhalf was inspired by the cross-cultural background in which Jing (Germany, China, US) and his girlfriend (Singapore, Taiwan, US) grew up.
The studio is called "Eaves," which in Chinese is called " 屋檐 ," the ledge outside Chinese buildings, which is just like bringing your home wherever you go, very similar to how you can adjust to a new environment, language, 5000 miles from home, making yourself more confident, knowing that your home will always be with you.
Jing's motivation for halfhalf was due to the realization that he wanted freedom. While working in New York and having jobs with a high income and prestige, it didn't allow him to realize what he wanted. He doesn't want a lifestyle where he is not able to express his freedom, and he learned the only way to make it happen is to become his own boss and make his own decisions.
Find a balance!
Jing realizes that, back in college, he was too focused on his career for the future. He always tried to apply for internships, network, and try to get his dream job, which caused him to lose balance and orient all of his energy to one thing, making him lose focus. Jing suggests people rely on and find comfort in their friends while going through a hard time.
In University, Jing's favorite part of NYU university was the thrill of the experience, while everything was fresh and new, and where he felt young and energetic. He also says the best part of college was about making friends. He kept close contact with some of his college friends even until now. He was able to have them as a support system. Jing would advise his old self in college: "Never take your body for granted." Don't stay up too late, and don't overwork it. Take care of your body and always be fit while you're young. Since, as you grow older, organs will start deteriorating even when you don't realize it.
During Covid, Jing says that the pandemic has changed him for the rest of his life. He took the experience very well, buying a car and driving around New York with it. He believes sometimes, the only solution is to take, accept, and make the best of it. Jing's motto is "Never take things too seriously." There are only a few things around us
that are important and matter to us - Family health, relationship… anything other than that you don't have to think much about. " 能拿钱解决的事情，都不是事儿。 " He stated that he realized that money could not solve serious problems later in life. "No money can help the health of yourself, your parents, family, and friends."
Jing is very thankful for the diversity of BCIS that helped him adapt to a new, international environment and relate to people from different backgrounds and cultures. Jing has decided to continue doing what he has been doing. He is satisfied with where he is now. He wishes to be happy and face every day with a positive attitude and focus on the small things that make him happy. This spring, he has returned to the workplace and is trying to adapt to the new workflow. In his free time, he is trying to make fermented vegetables (" 泡菜 ") and is working on woodworking projects. Nonetheless, Jing still finds time to visit his high school friend Andy during the weekend to share some wine and reminisce.
从 BCIS 毕业后，Jing 前往纽约大学，在 Stern 商学院学习
了金融学、统计学和哲学 3 个专业。2022 年 4 月，因为疫情， 他辞去工作回京探亲。回到纽约后的Jing在自己的工作室 工作，做平面设计，社区营造，提供商业咨询。Jing 现在重 返职场，在一家跨境支付公司工作。在他往返于杭州和纽约 的同时，经营着自己的工作室。
西装革履，迈入金融行业
其实，Jing 不确定自己真正热爱什么，大学时就选择学习了 金融专业，而这个专业也让他在毕业后有了一份收入不错的 工作。大学期间，Jing 努力在学业上取得好成绩，争取各种 实习机会，积累工作经验，也结识了很多良师益友。大学毕 业收到了瑞士银行的工作邀约。这份工作的强度很大节奏很 快，他经常需要工作到很晚，周末加班。一转眼就是 5 年， Jing 从中获益很多，这也使他的职业生涯有了一个良好的 开端。 “大学选择什么专业并不重要，一个人的人生道路总 是会改变的。但无论你最终选择了什么，一定要全力以赴。” Jing 说，他并不后悔这些选择，正是这些经历塑造了现在的 Jing。
顺其自然，halfhalf 工作室
Jing 人生中对他最大的影响之一是在不同的职业角色中不断 变换。在投资银行部门工作了三年后，他转到数据实验室成 为一名软件工程师，离开瑞士银行后，在 Narmi 做产品经理， 辞掉工作回国探亲，回到纽约开始自己的工作室。每次转行， 他都觉得自己又重新开始了，因为他意识到自己还有很多东 西要学。
随着年龄的增长，他意识到事情并不总能如愿，有时你无法 控制。生活中会有起起落落，但永远不要以消极的态度面对 挑战。Jing 说，遇到的每一个难题最终都一定会有解决方 案。 “现在克服的困难可能是塞翁失马焉知非福。” 一路走来， Jing 看到了很多事情都是一时的，随着时间的推移总会改变。 在大学的时候尽量选择自己有热情的领域，然后再为以后的 工作和职业担心。因为人生仍然很长，有足够的时间可以转 换赛道。Jing 创办 halfhalf 的动机是——自由表达自我。
虽然他在纽约的工作有着稳定收入，但这仍然是一份在框架 下完成既定任务的工作模式。他不想要一种无法自由表达的 生活方式，所以实现自由的唯一方法就是成为自己的老板， 自己做决定。
halfhalf（半半工坊）是一个位于纽约长岛市的社区空间, 与 “屋檐” 工作室共享物理空间。halfhalf 这个名字代表 “一 半东，一半西” 或中文短语 “半俗半雅” 。halfhalf 的动机来 自于 Jing (德国、中国、美国)和女友(新加坡、台湾、美国) 的跨文化成长背景。halfhalf最初的目标是为来自不同背景 的国际公民提供一个避风港，就像屋檐一样。
“屋檐工作室（Studio Eaves）”，取名来自中国建筑独有的 屋檐结构。寓意着无论一个人走到哪里，都可以带着 ta 的家。
就像当你需要迅速适应一个离家 5000 英里的新环境、语言 的时候，知道你的家永远与你同在会让你变得更加自信。
朋友…… 就像电影里说的那样，“能拿钱解决的事儿都不是 事儿”，而钱买不来自己和家人的健康。
保持健康，找到平衡
初入纽约大学时是激动人心的，一切都是新鲜的，他感到充 满活力。但他太专注于自己的职业发展，努力申请实习、拓 宽人脉、争取自己梦寐以求的工作，这让他在生活上失去了 平衡，所有的精力都集中在这一件事情上。而大学生活中最 棒的部分对于 Jing 来说就是交到好朋友。直到现在，他们 也保持着密切的联系。他很享受在圣诞节时跟朋友们轮流举 办聚会，亲自下厨，是他们支持鼓励着 Jing 一直向前。与 朋友互相依靠寻求安慰，不失为一个度过困难时期的好方法。
回过头来，Jing 会告诫在大学的自己: “永远不要把身体的 健康视为理所当然。” 不要经常熬夜，也不要过度消耗自己。
照顾好身体，趁年轻时刻保持健康。因为，随着年龄的增长， 即使你没有意识到，但也会感受到身体的变化。
疫情改变了 Jing 的生活，也改变他对生命的看法。由于疫情， 增加了居家工作的时间，于是 Jing 干脆买了一辆车，开着 它带着豆汁儿（Jing 的狗狗）去公路旅行。他相信在有些时 候，唯一的解决办法就是张开双手，接受，并充分利用当下 的情况。“对生活里的大多数事情都不要太当回事儿。” 我们 身边只有几件事对我们来说是至关重要的——家庭、健康、
Jing 非常感谢 BCIS 的多样性，帮助他学会与不同族裔、 不同国家的人们共处，适应完全陌生的国际环境、理解不同 背景或文化的人。他很满意现在的生活。 在未来，一方面 Jing 决定继续做他正在做的事情，专注于让他快乐的小事情， 在空闲时间研究发酵制作泡菜并挑战木工项目。另一方面， 今年春天，Jing 也开始了新的工作。在适应新环境之余，偶 尔也会和高中好友 Andy 抽空在周末小聚，一起喝喝葡萄酒。
Interview and Writing: Coco
Editor: Annie Zhuang, Gaia Zhao, Grady Singleton
Photos provided by: Jing Hao
Andy Liu
Beijing, China
BCIS Class of 2013
Pursuing intellectual curiosity
From a young age, he possessed a great hunger for knowledge and pursued his intellectual curiosities with fervor. His university journey took him to Boston College, where he immersed himself in the study of philosophy and political science, supplemented by a minor in psychoanalysis. Andy's exposure to philosophy during his sophomore year of high school instantly captivated him, so he felt that he had to delve deeper into the field. He was particularly drawn to the theoretical aspects of these subjects and devoted his time to studying continental philosophy, which traces its roots back to ancient Greece. He spent innumerable hours engrossed in textbooks and attending lectures, even undertaking graduatelevel courses alongside his undergraduate curriculum. Despite the strenuousness of his academic pursuits, Andy still found opportunities to foster close relationships with his professors, who acknowledged his drive and passion. These relationships were invaluable, providing him with an avenue to probe even more deeply into his cherished subjects and to acquire fresh perspectives and insights. As Andy casts a retrospective gaze on his college years, he takes immense pride in all that he has accomplished and expresses gratitude for the opportunities that allowed him to realize his passion. He knows that the lessons he learned and the relationships he cultivated will endure for a lifetime, and he eagerly anticipates continuing to explore these fields in the years to come.
Captivating Parisien culture
Andy's life has taken him on a winding path from
Beijing to Boston and back again, but he found his true passion along the way. Now, as the owner of a natural wine import business in Beijing, Andy spends his days selling wine and transmitting knowledge about the complex world of winemaking to his clients. His love for wine was evident in the way he spoke about it - with reverence and admiration for the vintners who produced it. Andy's journey to becoming a wine importer was unique. A oneyear study abroad program in Paris during his junior year truly captured his heart. Andy had fallen in love with Paris, the French culture, and, of course, the wine. After graduation, Andy pursued his passion for wine by working with 90% French wine and teaching himself the language along the way. When he couldn't find a suitable post-graduate philosophy program in the United States, he returned to China and began his career in the industry. Andy was happy with his decision to pursue wine, and he found that his love for philosophy had not diminished over time. In fact, he saw parallels between the two fields, both of which required a deep understanding of the nuances of their respective subjects. As he sipped his favorite Burgundy, Andy thought about the ways in which wine could teach us about the world and the way we interact with it. Despite the challenges that came with building business connections in a foreign country, Andy was content with his life. He had found a way to combine his passions for wine and culture, and he was grateful for the opportunity to share his knowledge with others. As he looks out over the bustling streets of Beijing, Andy knows that he was exactly where he was meant to be.
Things took an unexpected turn when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. He launched a podcast, in which he interviewed various professionals in the wine industry,
including restaurateurs, winemakers, importers, enthusiasts, and journalists. Andy completed around 25-26 episodes and took great joy in sharing his passion with others. He also got married and had a daughter named 弥弥 . Although he tried his hand at sharing his love for wine via the Chinese social media platform 小红书 (RED) in 2022, he ultimately found that preferred writing due to the challenges of live streaming.
and writing during their time in college, recognizing that the pursuit of knowledge is a continuous journey. Family, and education are the cornerstones of a fulfilling life, and he strives to embody these values in everything he does. He possesses a fervent passion for reading and writing and believes that learning should be a lifelong pursuit. (We spoke with Andy on the night before the Lunar New Year's Eve, and he shared that today 弥弥 ate her first dumpling: -)
Put family and education first
Andy cherishes the time he spends with his family and cherishes watching his daughter grow. Since his daughter was born, he has been a devoted stay-athome father, dedicating his time and energy to caring for her every need. As an avid cook, he finds joy in preparing meals for his wife and daughter every day, carrying on a tradition passed down from his mother. Watching his daughter grow and develop is a source of endless excitement for Andy, who relishes being an integral part of her early years. He prioritizes spending quality time with his family and enjoying activities like reading and writing together. Andy also took pleasure in recommending restaurants in Beijing. Andy encourages others to cultivate a habit of reading
His time at BCIS played a pivotal role in shaping his future. The sense of freedom he experienced at BCIS provided him with the opportunity to discover his true passion: philosophy. If it were not for his enrollment at BCIS, Andy may have never discovered his passion for this field. Andy remaines steadfast in his determination to continue learning and growing, knowing that there was an endless array of knowledge to be discovered.
Andy had always dreamt of living in the countryside, surrounded by nature. His future plans include planting more trees and starting his own vineyard. He hopes to produce his own wine and share it with friends and family, while also embracing a sustainable lifestyle in harmony with the environment.
Time flies indeed, and as the students from BCIS embark on their individual journeys, they carry with them fond memories of the school that will forever remain a cherished home in their hearts.
Andy 是 BCIS 2013 级毕业生，目前与家人居住在北京，经 常到处出差。
无法满足的好奇心 —— 波士顿学院哲学学生
年轻的 Andy 对知识怀有强烈的渴望，热切追求自我提升。
他的学术之旅始于波士顿学院，在那里他专注于哲学和政治 学的研究，辅修精神分析学。在 BCIS 念高二时，Andy 接 触到哲学，便被这个学科所深深吸引并决定深入钻研。他特 别着迷于这些学科的各种理论，在大学，他倾向于古希腊哲 学与欧陆哲学的学习与研究。他用大量时间读书、听课，在 本科期间学习了许多研究生的课程内容，毕业时也获得了荣 誉学士学位（Honours Degree）。尽管学术之路颇为艰辛，
Andy 却十分喜欢他的教授，自那时与教授建立起的紧密关 系，一直延续至今。在教授的帮助与指引下他不断深入探索 所钟爱的主题，并使他获得了新的见解与视角。当 Andy 回 顾大学岁月，他为自己取得的学业上的成就感到非常自豪， 并对他能无忧无虑追求心中所爱的机会表示感激。他深刻意 识到，在大学期间学习的经历和结识的人脉将伴随他一生， 也期待在未来几年中有机会继续探索这些领域。
黎度过的那段时间真正俘获了他的心。他爱上了巴黎，法国 的风土人情，美食，当然还有葡萄酒。毕业后，他过手的 葡萄酒百分之九十来自法国，并自学了法语。大学毕业时， Andy 在美国没找到合适的哲学研究生项目，他便回到了中 国，开始了他的葡萄酒商生涯。即便 Andy 对自己追求葡萄 酒事业的决定感到高兴，他发现自己对哲学的热爱并没有随 着时间的推移而减少。事实上，他看到了这两个领域之间的 相似之处：他们都需要深入了解各自学科的细微差别。当他 啜饮他最喜欢的勃艮第葡萄酒时，思考着葡萄酒是如何教会 我们认识世界并且影响我们与之互动的方式。尽管在国外经 营企业带来不少挑战，但 Andy 很满意自己现在的生活。他 找到了一种将他对葡萄酒和文化的热情结合起来的方法，并 很高兴有机会与他人分享。当他眺望着北京繁忙的街道时， Andy 知道这正是他应该去的地方。
当新冠来袭，事情发生了意想不到的转变。 他推出了一个
大约 25-26 集的播客节目，采访与葡萄酒行业相关的各种 专业人士，包括餐馆老板、酿酒师、进口商和葡萄酒爱好者。 在 2022 年 Andy 也尝试了通过国内的社交媒体平台小红书 分享他对葡萄酒的热爱，但他最终发现自己更喜欢的媒介是 写作，线上直播不是他的强项。
爱上巴黎的风土人情 —— 葡萄酒进口商
几经波折，Andy 最终找到了自己真正的热情。作为北京一 家进口天然葡萄酒公司的老板，他每天都在向客户销售高品 质的葡萄酒并传授背后复杂的酿酒知识。采访时，他对葡萄 酒的热爱从言谈中显而易见，对酿酒师和酒商也毫不掩饰他 的崇敬和钦佩。Andy 是如何成为葡萄酒进口商的？在波士 顿学院学习期间，Andy 参加了为期一年的交换项目，在巴
Andy 很珍惜和家人在一起的时光，疫情期间，他组建了自 己的家庭，有了一个名叫弥弥的女儿。 自从女儿出生，他 便成了一位尽职尽责的全职父亲，投入时间和精力照顾她的
一同成长, 家庭与教育 —— 带娃奶爸
每个需要。 作为一名狂热的厨师，他从每天为妻子和女儿 准备饭菜中找到了乐趣，继承了他母亲传下来的传统，他现 在仍能记得小时候看母亲煮饭时的心情。 目睹女儿成长是 Andy 无尽的快乐源泉，他希望成为她年幼时不可或缺的一 部分。Andy 给我们推荐了很多地道的北京餐馆，下至苍蝇 馆子上至米其林三星。 他也鼓励大家尽早养成阅读和写作 的习惯并认识到追求知识是一个持续不断的旅程。 对 Andy 来说，家庭和教育是充实生活的基石，他努力将这些价值观 贯穿在他所做的每一件事中。
（我们是在小年夜那天采访了 Andy，他跟我们分享说今天 弥弥吃了她人生中的第一个饺子：-）
在 BCIS 的那段时光塑造了他。在这所学校，他尝试了自由 的探索，最终找到了真正的热情：哲学。如果没来 BCIS， 继续在公立学校念书，或许 Andy 不会接触哲学，也将永 远无法发现自己对这个领域的热爱。现在，他坚定学习和成 长的决心依然让他在知识的海洋中遨游。“我很骄傲地说，
我把自己的生活打理得很好，我计划未来，我与我的家人在 一起，我安排自己的一日三餐，我也享受生活本身。我记得 2013 级一共有 28 个毕业生，回忆在毕业典礼上发言时我说 过的话，过得开心一点，尽量活在当下。而活在当下，其实 是三个时间维度的平衡，过去，现在和未来。”
而当下，Andy 的梦想是住在乡下，与大自然为伴，种树， 拥有自己的葡萄种植园，自己酿酒，与亲朋好友分享，同时 追求可持续生活方式，与环境和谐共处。
Interview and Writing: Helen
Editor: Annie Zhuang, Gaia Zhao, Grady Singleton
Photos provided by: Andy Liu
After graduating from BCIS, Mona went forth and attended the University of Southern California with a major of Film Critical Studies; she also was able to study abroard in Cape Town, South Africa, during her experience at USC. During university, she attended a bunch of internships at different firms in the film
Open the door of movie’s world
Mona's passion for movies started at the young age of 11, her dad's friend had a whole bookshelf of DVDs and allowed her to borrow any DVDs she wanted. In middle school, she began to think it would be fantastic to work in the movie industry in the future. But as she grew older, she forgot about her past passion. That was until she was at BCIS in an IT class. The class was assigned a task to make a short film using visual effects, which sparked her devotion and made her reconsider her decision for the future.
Mona went to the University of Southern California (USC) and decided to transfer to their School of Cinematic Arts as a Cinema Studies Major. During her first film class at USC, she noticed her professor Drew Casper, talk about movies with so much passion. Affected by his passion and love for the movie industry, she continued the class several times. Till this day, Mona still thinks her first class with Mr. Casper ignited and sparked her passion for shining brighter.
Storytelling is vital in everyone's lives; everyone must become a good storyteller.” Mona's decision to
Los Angeles / Hawaii, USA BCIS Class of 2013
industry. She landed a job as a creative manager at Netflix, working her way up to being a creative manager at one of the world's top film companies. Then, moving on to become an independent freelance documentary producer pursue what she is genuinely passionate about.
enter the entertainment industry was partially about the storytelling, she explains she loves the handson process of movie creation, and everything is very flexible, "everything changes every step of the way."
At her job at Netflix, she loved how convenient it was for her to get information. "When you work as an assistant and want to know about the money made for Squid Game, you can find out in 2 seconds." The work ethic of her colleagues was also working at a swift pace, with people meeting all day, and it motivated her too. The experience was remarkable for Mona, but she still remembered how stressful and worried she was to talk in the meetings when she started to work there, since everyone looks so bright at the table.
Hawaii & Surfing, living a balanced life
While working at Netflix for 4 years, Mona stated she was able to reach financial security. Realizing that scripted film work wasn't what she wanted. She wanted to work on something she would put all her
effort into. She decided to transition to become a documentary producer "When you read a bad script, you don't learn anything. But when you read a bad documentary pitch, you still learn about worlds that exist, which still is meaningful to me." Throughout the pandemic, her most significant takeaway is about the balance between work and connection with friends, and family, reflecting on her past life and decisions and taking control of her life. Currently, Mona lives in Hawaii and LA, which allows her to explore more of her outdoor activities such as surfing from which she was able to learn the skill of persistence, she couldn't stand up on the board after several times trying, but she never thought about giving up.
Being independent, Adventure in Cape Town
Mona's favorite experience in college was studying in Cape Town, South Africa. She considers it one of the best decisions of her life. It was the most beautiful experience. The trip changed her life completely. She recommended that everyone try learning about the culture and history and interacting with nature at least once in school.
While she was studying abroad, people with different lives than her allowed her to learn more about peoples' upbringing and the environment. Her peers were also very adventurous and had the same values as Mona; everyone was willing to try new
things - bungee jumping and skydiving on a typical Wednesday. At Cape Town University, she was able to be more independent, compared to what life was like at USC, being a part of a big group.
What’s Next
To this day, Mona still remembers things she learned at BCIS. For instance, while studying history at BCIS, she always had to analyze the sources, their origins, and their credibility. But now, she considers it a unique way to study history, realizing the importance of knowing which perspective history is told from and where it came from. She is grateful for the education that she received at BCIS.
In the future, Mona wishes to direct more films so that she can enjoy the process and product, connecting cultures in different ways to express a documentary.
Her recent favorite documentary is "Happiness is 4 Million Pounds" by the New York Times, written by 2 young Chinese directors about a young Chinese reporter interviewing a prosperous real estate mogul, which reminded Mona of the typical Chinese man during that time. The different complexity levels in the relationship between the reporter and the businessman piqued her interest. Mona is looking forward to having more opportunities to make documentaries in the future about both Chinese and western culture.
推开电影世界的大门，成为创意经理
Mona
对电影的热情始于
11 岁，那时父亲带她去朋友家里
做客，她非常惊喜地发现，那个叔叔收藏了一整个书架的 DVD 影碟，并告诉她可以随意借看。机缘巧合之下，她看 了大量的影片，而且那时候她刚刚从美国搬回国内生活，在 新的环境里，看电影成了小小的她跟曾经在美国生活的连 接。上中学后，她憧憬过未来进入电影行业工作。然而随着 年龄的增长，忙于学业，她逐渐淡忘了曾经的热情。直到她 在BCIS的 IT 课上，学生被要求制作一个短片作为作业，让 她重新思考了自己的决定和未来的道路。
后来，Mona 被南加州大学(USC)录取。一开始她其实只是 想要选修电影专业，但是在南加州大学的第一堂电影课上， 她的教授德鲁·卡斯珀(Drew Casper)充满热情地谈论着电 影知识。是教授对电影行业热爱深深地影响了 Mona，于是 她决定转到电影学院，主修电影研究评论与研究。直到今天， Mona 仍然认为是卡斯珀先生的第一节课点燃了她的激情， 激发了她想要在这个行业中脱颖而出的决心。
电影是如何吸引了 Mona? 是故事。在生活和工作中，讲故 事的能力至关重要，而每个人都应该成为一个善于讲故事的 人。另外一个原因是，电影创作这是一个实践性很强的行业， 她喜欢参与其中并体验整个过程，每一个环节的细微变化都 会影响整体结果最后的呈现。谈及在Netflix工作经历，她 最印象深刻的是获取信息的便捷性与透明的企业文化，“即 使你是一名助理，但若想知道《鱿鱼游戏》赚了多少钱，你 可以在 2 秒钟内找到答案。” 还有，她的同事们的工作能力 以及高情商，比如她的上级，对周围人的十分体贴并照顾到 各种细节。快节奏的工作让刚入职的她每天应接不暇，参加 数不完的会议，同事们都非常有才华以至于 Mona 时常担心 自己在会上的发言是不是不够好。但是几年之后，Mona 已
在 BCIS 毕业后进入南加州大学攻读电影评论研究 专业。在大学期间，她选择前往南非的开普敦大学留学一 年。由于大学期间丰富的实习经历，毕业后，她顺利加入 Netflix 这家世界顶级电影娱乐公司，成为了一名创意经理。 目前，她决定作为一名独立纪录片制片人，继续追求她真正 热爱的事业。
经可以游刃有余地完成工作，在原创纪录片部门负责项目。 总体来讲，这是一家非常先锋并具有创新性的企业，相比于 传统的几大电影制片公司，Netflix 当时制作并发行了许多 时长更短主题更多元的纪录片剧集，但收视和反响都不错。
找到生活的平衡，搬去夏威夷
在疫情期间，像所有人一样 Mona 开始居家办公，与同事线 上协作。Mona 很沮丧也很怀念人与人之间的沟通与互动， 大家一起工作时的状态，她开始重新反思在生活中对于自己 来说最重要的是什么，找到自己真正喜欢的事情，在家庭， 朋友，工作之间保持平衡，反思过去的生活和决策，并重新 掌控自己的生活。Mona 衡量了自己对物质欲望的渴望与自 己的理想兴趣，几年的工作积累之后，在个人财务安全基础 上，她更希望全情投入到一个让自己感兴趣的项目中，并做 出一份事业。在 Netflix 工作了四年之后，Mona 虽然心有 不舍，但她已经准备好迈出下一步了。
目前，Mona 生活在夏威夷的一个小岛上，往返于洛杉矶， 这让她可以有机会探索更多她喜爱的户外活动，感受大自然， 比如徒步和冲浪。冲浪是一个她坚持了 4，5 年的运动，虽 然最开始她尝试了很多次都不能在冲浪板上成功地站起来。 但这个学习的经历让她有了很多感悟，即使失败很多次，坚 持下来也许会成功；跟大自然的力量比起来，人就渺小很多 了，在城市里的生活，由于交通和网络的便捷，很容易产生 一种人可以掌控一切的错觉。而冲浪运动，很多时候都在等， 就像生活中会有很多无法控制的事情发生，我们能做的就是 准备好，等浪来。
独立与冒险，在开普敦留学
大学里，每个人都行色匆忙参与各种各样的社团，希望更加 融入。而 Mona 有些失落，因为她则希望更独立地去探索更 多可能。一直到去开普敦大学交换，在那儿她结识了很多来 自同一所大学但志趣相投的好朋友，大家都一样独立并喜欢 冒险，每个人都愿意尝试新事物，比如在一个平常的周三约 着一起去蹦极和跳伞。
这也是 Mona 最喜欢的大学经历——在南非的开普敦大学交 换学习一年。她认为这是她一生中做过的最好的决定之一， 当时有很多项目可选，看着目的地列表上的国家和城市， Mona 觉得那些城市都是一些常见的旅行目的地，但如果不 是去留学这辈子应该不太可能会去开普敦。这段经历彻底改 变了她的生活，在开普敦，沉浸在截然不同的自然与文化环 境给 Mona 带了不一样的体验和视角，Mona 建议每个人都 应该试着去学习和感受其他文化和历史。
下一篇章，独立制片人
直到今天，Mona 仍然清楚地记得她在 BCIS 学到的许多东 西，这些知识潜移默化地，在现在的生活中还时常出现在脑 海里。举个例子，在学习历史课程时，她时常要分析资料来 源和可信度。现在，她也仍然认为这是一种研究历史的独特 方式，同时也意识到了解历史的角度和重要性。她非常感激 在 BCIS 所接受的基础教育。
离开 Netflix 之后，她决定转型成为一名独立纪录片制片人“当 你读到一个糟糕的剧本时，你并不能学到太多东西。但是， 当你看到一部糟糕的纪录片时，你仍然能够了解到真实存在 的世界，这对我来说仍然非常有意义。” 未来，Mona希望 能够策划更多的纪录片，享受整个创作过程以及看到最终作 品发表，同时也通过纪录片的方式来连接不同的文化。
在采访时我们跟 Mona 玩了快问快答，让她迅速说出最喜欢 的一部纪录片。她分享了最近一段时间看的短纪录片，《纽 约时报》的《幸福是 400 万英镑》，由两位年轻的中国导 演执导，讲述了一位年轻的中国记者采访一位富豪房地产商 的故事。这让 Mona 想起了那个时代一种典型的中国男人。 片中记者与受访者之间的强烈观念冲突引起了她的兴趣。 Mona 也期待未来有更多的机会来制作关于中西文化题材的 纪录片。
Interview and Writing: Coco
Editor: Annie Zhuang, Gaia Zhao, Grady Singleton
Photos provided by: Mona
Eric is currently residing in Amsterdam, where he has lived for the past five years.
Unsure of academic direction
Eric completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Amsterdam. He had considerable difficulty deciding which universities and curriculums were best suited to him. Eric was in a constant process of inquiry about where his academic ambitions lay. The University of Amsterdam was the third school he applied for. Before deciding to settle there, he tried several other schools in different places. Eric spent one year in Moscow, which is one of his most interesting and proudest experiences.
Unlike some others, he wasn’t entirely sure what he was going to major in. One of the ways that helped him choose was asking himself whether “this [major] was something that he could sit down and study for.” Another method that assisted him was eliminating the subjects that he definitively would not study. Eric ended up majoring in communication science and focusing on data analytics and statistics. He was most intrigued by how he was able to consolidate inquiries toward society and establish an empirical understanding of them. During his studies, Eric got to work with prestigious academic professionals and was exposed to sophisticated, rigorous programs. He continued these studies throughout the COVID pandemic and made a speech as the student representative for the graduating class. This was one of his “highlight moments”, and he was thrilled at how he was able to successfully deliver the speech. Eric has always had a knack for communication, which is one of the principal reasons why he has chosen his career path.
Uncertain of academic ambitions
Eric has experience in a variety of fields. His list of qualifications isn’t really “streamlined” -- He began as an agent managing mixed martial arts fighters and coordinating fight camps. He then progressed into the model agency and became a project manager for lighting and stage companies. After that, he decided to move to Amsterdam to complete his degree in communication science. After graduating, he was able to land a job in recruitment as a headhunter. He shared some of the memorable things from his previous jobs, ranging from his experiences with co-
workers to new skills acquired. He appreciates the charisma of his former colleagues and directors and expresses recognition of their abilities to “sell the hardest products.” It is very interesting to observe and “understand the way they object to and handle” situations through a phone call. He also shared how he had to learn how to effectively communicate with a client for 45 minutes.
Exhilarating DJ experience
In the interview, Eric spoke animatedly regarding his subjects of interest. Some of his passions include electronic music and traveling. Eric’s passion for music was kindled at a young age by his first time watching a live DJ performance. He found the juxtaposition of purity and power in electronic music to be remarkable. What was even more thrilling was the immersive atmosphere and the interaction between the DJ and the audience. The collective exhilaration and euphoria that can resonate with people of all ages and walks of life fascinate him. Everyone has the liberty to speak it and enjoy music. He believes that music and traveling have an intrinsic relationship with each another, stating that “if you are a successful DJ, you are destined to travel and do tours.” This relationship between music and traveling can be seen through Eric's life in Amsterdam. Despite the city’s small size, it holds an abundance of opportunity. Eric especially enjoys going to music festivals. No matter how many times he has been to these events, the wonder of experiencing them remains unfading. Eric says that “when things are less hectic periodically, he would love to attempt a music or entertainment-related career.”
Eric’s passions provide momentary relief from the constant stress of life. Often, Eric finds himself lost in music. This state of flow that he enters has a profound influence on his life. Though those moments are fleeting, he can cast his mind from the troubles of the outside world and truly be himself. Even though Eric still feels nervous before performing, the moment that he enters the “mode,” everything else just fades into the background. He can establish an extraordinary connection with the audience when performing.
Appreciate the moment
Eric’s time at BCIS was an extremely valuable experience. The inclusive environment and supportive community significantly assisted him in his individual development. He “met crazy people and made lifelong friends.” All his classmates were admirable and left strong impressions on him. One of his proudest moments in his life occurred during his time at BCIS, which was when he was crowned Prom King of his year. He was also able to help organize and set up the music at the Prom.
When asked about his life motto, Eric answered with an insightful quote “Appreciate the moment and enjoy the present instead of reliving the past and worrying about the future.” He strongly advocates for people to “live the moment to its fullest.” Ruminations of the past and contemplations on the future are merely irrational worries that people dwell on all too often. Remaining in the present requires a degree of acceptance and commitment, but its merits will be transparent.
Looking back, Eric couldn’t help but remark “how time flies.” He was astonished to realize how 10 years passed in the blink of an eye. Eric found it amusing that he was being interviewed by an eighth-grade student. He was also an eighth grader when he came to BCIS. He felt as if “yesterday I was still in eighth grade.” As time passes, the students from BCIS have set out on their own paths. However, BCIS will always be a home in their hearts.
Eric 是一位 2013 年毕业于 BCIS 的学生，目前居住在阿姆 斯特丹已有五年之久。
一波三折, 找到心仪的大学
Eric 在阿姆斯特丹大学完成了本科和硕士学位，这并不是一 个容易的决定。他曾经遇到了很多选择困难，不确定哪所大 学的课程最适合他的学术抱负。尽管如此， Eric 还是一直在 努力探寻自己的方向。阿姆斯特丹大学是他第三次申请的学 校，之前他还试过其他两所学校。在莫斯科生活了一年之后， 他最终选择了阿姆斯特丹大学通信科学专业，并辅修数据分 析和统计学。Eric 对这个学科感兴趣的原因是，他可以通过 实证方法结合社会好奇心来建立对问题的理解，并且这也是 为数不多的英文授课专业。入学后， Eric 才意识到自己的教 授是这个专业里最负盛名的学者，接受严格的课程学习。在 新冠大流行期间，他决定继续攻读研究生学位，并有幸作为 毕业班的学生代表在毕业典礼上致辞。Eric非常擅长沟通交 流，这也是他选择职业道路的主要原因之一。他觉得，能够 将自己的知识和想法传递给他人，并且能够在交流中提高自 己的认知水平，是一件非常有趣和有意义的事情。
白天我在猎头公司工作
Eric 在不同的职业领域拥有多样的经验，因此，当他展示自 己的履历时，他发现别人并不总能真正理解。他曾经从事过 格斗代理人的工作，管理 MMA 选手和协调比赛训练营。接 着，他转向了模特经纪公司和灯光舞台公司的项目经理职位。 硕士毕业后找到了一份在猎头公司的工作，他不断地拓展自 己的视野和能力。目前，他正在寻找新的工作机会。Eric 与 前同事和主管之间的互动给他留下了深刻的印象。他欣赏他 们的沟通能力与个人魅力，并对他们 “销售最难的产品”（人） 的能力表示赞赏。他曾通过观察同事们 “了解他们如何对待 反对意见和应对困难” 学习到许多有趣的经验，并分享了有 效地与客户沟通的技巧，使每次 45 分钟的会议都变得充实 而高效。Eric 总结了他从过去的工作中学到的经验和技能， 认为这些经历不仅让他成为了一名出色的职业人士，还为他 的个人发展带来了很多好处。
晚上我是电子音乐爱好者
在采访中，当我们聊到个人兴趣， Eric 分享了他对音乐和旅 行的浓厚兴趣。小时候的他喜欢架子鼓，享受鼓点与节奏带 来的感官感受。直到 15 岁时，他第一次观看了现场 DJ 表演， 深深地被其吸引，大为震撼，这成为了他难以忘怀的经历。 电子音乐中纯洁与力量的对比，DJ 与观众之间融洽的互动， 前所未有的感官体验，让 Eric 感受到了电子音乐所带来的 共同兴奋和欣喜之情。Eric 认为音乐是一种普遍的语言，不 受文化和背景的限制，每个人都有自由地表达和享受它的权 利。一直很喜欢旅行的他，相信一名出色的 DJ 必定会到处 巡演。在他居住的阿姆斯特丹，虽然城市面积很小，但却充
满自由与活力，每年都举办各种盛大的文化娱乐，艺术，音 乐活动。Eric 非常享受参与这些活动，他从不会感觉到厌倦， 因为每一次都会收获不同的奇妙体验。几十年的实践经验支 撑着这个卓越的活动，每一次的音质和光效质量都非常出色， 所有行业内的顶尖人才每年都在音乐节上齐聚一堂。Eric 表 示，如果有机会，他想尝试从事音乐或娱乐相关的职业。
Eric 偶尔也会作为 DJ 在俱乐部或酒吧演出，这是他另外一 个身份，但也是他疏解生活压力的方式。沉浸在音乐中，即 使只是短暂而脆弱的时刻，他也能够忘却外界的一切，真正 做回自己。尽管每次在表演前他仍感到紧张，因为他感受到 一种来自于表演者对观众要承担的责任，但一旦进入“状态”， 其他一切都会淡入背景。在表演时，Eric与观众建立起情感 联系，看到他能影响并带动观众的情感，这让他感到无比满 足。他能够通过音乐与观众产生共鸣。
在 BCIS 时光中，Eric 收获了最有价值的人生经历。包容的 环境和支持性的社区给他留下了难忘的印象，并对他的个人 发展起到了重要的帮助。Eric 说，在 BCIS，他与疯狂的人 相遇，结交了终身的朋友，每一位同学都值得敬重和与众不 同。在 BCIS 期间，他最自豪的高光时刻是他在毕业舞会上 被投票选为舞会之王, “我不一定是最受欢迎的小孩，但我一 定是那个最会劝说别人的” Eric 开玩笑地说到。筹备毕业舞 会期间，也是他负责协调音乐和 DJ，来确保可以嗨翻全场， 每个同学都玩得尽兴。
感受当下并享受其中 当问及他的人生座右铭时， Eric 说他相信 “充分地生活在 当下”， “欣赏当下，享受当下，而不是重温过去和担忧未 来。” 过去的沉思和未来的思考只是人们经常纠结于的无谓 的忧虑。 “回顾往昔，我没有意识过时间在那个当下的流逝， 当然也没有意识到要珍惜彼时彼刻的某种感受。但这显然是 无法避免的，能做的就是尽量感知当下，并享受其中。”
回首往事，Eric 不禁感慨 “时光飞逝”。他惊讶地发现 10 年 就这样转眼间过去了。Eric 觉得很有趣，他正在接受一个八 年级学生的采访，而他这正是在八年级转来 BCIS，自那之后， 在这，他度过了人生中最难忘的几年。 Eric 感觉仿佛 “昨天 我还在八年级”。随着时间的推移，彼时 BCIS 的同僚们已经 踏上了他们自己的道路。然而，BCIS 将永远是许多人心中 的家。
Interview and Writing: Helen
Editor: Annie Zhuang, Gaia Zhao, Grady Singleton
Photos provided by Eric Xu
Daniel Huang
Boston, USA BCIS Class of 2013
I recently earned my second master's degree from Carnegie Mellon University and started a new career as an analytics manager at a pharmaceutical company in Boston. If any of you are in town, let's grab a drink and catch up on old times!
Time flies! It's hard to believe that 10 years have passed since we graduated.
最近从卡内基梅隆大学获得了第二个硕士学位，刚入职了波 士顿的一家制药公司，担任分析经理的职位。 如果你们中 有人在城里，可以联系我，有空一起喝一杯。时光飞逝，很 难相信我们毕业已经 10 年了！
Natalie Axelsson
Zürich, Switzerland BCIS Class of 2013
Software engineer at Google, MSc in computer science, Recently celebrated 5 years with my boyfriend Felix, I enjoy baking in my free time.
在拿到了计算机专业的硕士学位后，我现在在谷歌做一名软 件工程师。最近刚刚跟男朋友 Felix 庆祝了五周年纪念日， 我很喜欢在不忙的时候烘焙，享受美食。
Anthea Low
Vancouver, Canada BCIS Class of 2013
After graduating from BCIS, I attended UBC and have been living in Vancouver ever since. I spent an exchange semester in Copenhagen during my undergrad, which allowed me to travel around Europe.
I joined KPMG after graduating from UBC and pursued my CPA designation while working. I recently bought an apartment!
从 BCIS 毕业后我去了英属哥伦比亚大学继续学习，到现在 一直生活在温哥华。在本科的学习期间，我选择了去哥本哈 根交换一个学期，趁此机会环游了欧洲。大学毕业后我就加 入了毕马威会计师事务所，一边工作一边考取了注册会计师 证。我最近买了一套公寓！
Kona, USA BCIS Class of 2013
“Serving my community as a meditation/movement instructor. Working and living in Hawaii. Continuing to learn and practice my body and mind in dance, Buddhist zen practice, and in nature. Thinking about doing a film, documentary about my journey.”
“作为冥想与运动指导在我的社区服务，目前在夏威夷工作 和生活。 继续在舞蹈、佛教禅修和大自然中学习和练习， 锻炼我的身体与心灵。 最近在考虑拍一部纪录片电影记录 我的旅程。 ”
Sen Man (Christine) Pak
Cambridge, UK BCIS Class of 2013
Finally getting a golden retriever puppy now that I've got a house with a garden!
Got married to an old friend from BCIS Class of 2011 after a chance reunion 8 years ago.
最近搬进了一个带花园的房子，也终于养了一只金毛小狗！ 一次 8 年前的偶然重逢，我跟一个 BCIS 的老朋友重逢，他 是 2011 级的毕业生，我们去年结婚啦。
