#WEAREHEC - From China to HEC Paris: Ziyue Zhou’s global journey of learning and personal growth
Ziyue Zhou’s story is one of exploration, growth, and embracing opportunities across the globe. Born in Nantong, a city near Shanghai, Ziyue’s academic and professional experiences have taken her from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the serene campuses of Australia, and now to HEC Paris. Her journey reflects a strong desire to experience diverse cultures, expand her horizons, and build a solid foundation for a successful career in sustainable business.
From Shanghai to Sydney
Ziyue’s academic journey began in China, where she completed her high school education and several internships before moving to Australia for her undergraduate studies. She pursued a degree in Financial Mathematics and Financial Economics at the University of Sydney. However, her time there wasn’t without its challenges. The first year of her studies coincided with the global COVID-19 pandemic, forcing her to adapt to online learning from home.
Life, she realized, is not a test with definitive answers - even if she had solutions, they didn’t necessarily guarantee success. This understanding led her to embrace uncertainty and explore new possibilities, including learning to be comfortable on her own.
Once she was able to move to Australia, Ziyue embraced the new environment and appreciated the interactive and collaborative teaching methods that contrasted with the more traditional Chinese education system. The Australian academic culture, which emphasized group work and active participation helped her grow as a student.
Her time in Australia wasn’t solely about academics. Ziyue immersed herself in various extracurricular activities, including boxing, tennis and snorkeling which not only helped her stay fit but also sharpened her focus and discipline. She also took the opportunity to explore different parts of Australia, traveling to places like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Tasmania, to discover as much as possible about the country and its people.
Why HEC Paris?
Ziyue’s desire to experience even more of the world led her to apply for an exchange program at HEC Paris during the final semester of her undergraduate studies. Her internship at BNP Paribas in Shanghai had already awakened her interest in France, and when she spoke with a close friend who was already studying at HEC Paris and was highly enjoying the experience, her decision was made. For Ziyue, the attraction of HEC Paris was not only its academic prestige but also the rich culture and history that France had to offer – something that she wasn’t able to experience in Australia.
At HEC Paris, she wanted to shift her focus from the more technical and mathematical aspects of finance to a broader, more business-oriented perspective. Having the flexibility to choose elective courses, enabled her to explore new fields like Greentech, real assets analysis, supply chain operations, and even agricultural management. This shift not only enriched her body of knowledge, but also coincided with her growing interest in sustainability, a topic that has grown to be central to her future career plans.
Returning to HEC Paris for the Master in Management
After her exchange program semester, Ziyue knew that she wanted to return to HEC Paris to follow the Master in Management program. She was convinced that HEC Paris would offer her the best opportunity to deepen her knowledge and gain practical experience. The school’s emphasis on leadership and entrepreneurship was particularly appealing, as it will enable her to develop key skills to achieve her career ambitions.
One of the most significant lessons she has learned so far is the importance of leadership. Being able to work on a variety of group projects in diverse teams of fellow students, including a startup idea focused on green investment projects, has allowed Ziyue to rethink and develop her leadership style. These experiences have taught her the intricacies of teamwork, communication, and the importance of understanding different cultural perspectives in the decision-making process. She has also discovered a passion for impact investing and sustainability, areas that she had only begun to explore but now wants to actively pursue as she continues her studies.
Looking to the future
Looking ahead, Ziyue is hoping to take advantage of the double degree programs. Eager to take on new challenges, her goal is to study in the United States or Hong Kong to further expand her cultural and academic experience.
In terms of her career, Ziyue has her sights set on working in the sustainability sector, particularly in impact investing and green technology. Her experiences at HEC have ignited a passion for this field, and she believes that Europe offers a fertile ground for innovation and growth in sustainable industries. Although she hasn’t yet decided where she will ultimately settle - whether in Europe, Asia, or elsewhere - Ziyue is confident that her multicultural background and global experiences will serve her well in whatever path she chooses.
However, the decision to return to Asia also holds significance for Ziyue, as she feels a strong connection to the region, with family and cultural ties that continue to influence her choices.
A true citizen of the world
Ziyue’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, commitment, and a global mindset. From her early days in China to her studies in Australia and now at HEC Paris, Ziyue has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. Her story is not just one of academic achievement but also of personal development, as she continues to evolve into a leader with a deep understanding of the world’s cultures and a passion for sustainability. As she prepares for the next chapter of her life, Ziyue is determined to make a positive impact on the world, wherever her journey may take her.