WONG KAR XIONG：Exploring, Learning, and Achieving: How WISE Shaped My Path

WONG KAR XIONG graduated from WISE in 2024 with a Master of Finance degree. Prior to his studies at WISE, he gained three years of professional experience, which provided a strong foundation for his academic journey. Currently, he works as a Product Manager at Ant International, where he plays a key role in driving innovative solutions in the fintech industry. His time at WISE not only enhanced his technical and analytical skills but also inspired his continuous pursuit of growth and excellence in his career.

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A Humid Winter’s Beginning

The winter at Siming Campus was different—humid and cold, the kind of chill that got into your clothes but never quite made your breath visible. I still remember it clearly: October 22, 2022, the day I first arrived at Xiamen University. My suitcase bumped along the stone paths as I took in my surroundings, a foreign Chinese student in a place that felt both strange and familiar. I came with quiet determination. This wasn’t just about getting a degree—it was about finding my path in the world of finance, here in China and beyond.

The semester began as a mix of the usual and the unexpected. Some classes were held in lecture halls, while others took place on the small screen of my laptop. This mix of online and in-person classes wasn’t what I had imagined for graduate school, but it was the reality, and I had to make it work. My days shifted between long online lessons and moments of quiet thought, trying to connect what I was learning to how I could use it.

Mornings were simple but comforting. I’d pick up a warm cup of soymilk and a crispy youtiao from a campus stall—or sometimes a baozi when I wanted something more filling—before heading to class. There were times I ate slowly, enjoying the peaceful start to the day.

Evenings had their own rhythm. The campus came alive with joggers running on paths around the lakes and courtyards. I often stopped to watch them, their determination reminding me of the energy of the students around me. Sometimes, I joined in, walking casually along the tracks. Back in my dorm, under the soft glow of my desk lamp, I spent hours reviewing lectures and reading course materials, trying to make sense of econometrics and mathematical theories. It often felt like I was just keeping my head above water—not failing, but not mastering the subjects either. Still, I was learning to adapt, to accept the struggle, and to find meaning in the journey.

Discovering the World Beyond

When I needed a break from studying, I walked around campus. Wandering through its historic buildings, I admired their beauty and felt the weight of the university’s long history. The library was always full until closing time, buzzing with students hard at work. In the evenings, many students jogged around the campus, taking advantage of the cooler weather. These moments reminded me that I was part of something bigger—a group of people chasing dreams with determination.

Exploring the city was also part of the experience. One of my favorite trips was to Gulangyu Island, just a short ferry ride away. Its quiet, car-free streets and old-style buildings gave it a unique charm. I wandered through its winding alleys, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and watching couples pose for wedding photos with the sea or historic buildings as their backdrop. From Gulangyu, I could see the mainland and the tall statue of Zheng Chenggong, standing as a symbol of the city’s history.

Another favorite spot was Zhongshan Road, a lively street full of lights, crowds, and delicious smells. I tasted local dishes like ‘shacha’ noodles and oyster omelets, each bite full of bold flavors that seemed to capture the city’s character. These outings gave me a deeper connection to the place I was calling home.

Guidance and Growth

The difficulty of my coursework often pushed me to my limits. Stress felt like a constant shadow, following me even during moments of rest. But I wasn’t alone in facing these challenges. The teaching assistants, who were PhD students, became my lifeline. They were more than just helpers—they were mentors who had been through the same struggles. Their clear explanations made complicated ideas easier to understand. With their help, I passed some of my tests with a confidence I hadn’t expected.

During my second semester, I met my thesis supervisor, Professor Wang. His guidance was a turning point in my studies. “Start with the problem,” he told me during one of our first meetings, “and the solution will come naturally.” He helped me find direction for my thesis, guiding me on how to collect data and focus my research. His advice turned what seemed like an impossible task into something manageable. Under his guidance, I learned to ask better questions and think more deeply about the world of corporate finance.

Unexpected Triumphs and Bittersweet Goodbyes

The semester also brought unexpected opportunities. I joined the Internet+ Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition, an exciting but nerve-wracking experience. Working with my team, we developed our project, polished our ideas, and practiced our presentation. As the competition went on, I realized how much I still needed to learn—about technical skills, public speaking, and solving problems under pressure. When we won 1st runner-up in the provincial round, I was both surprised and proud. It wasn’t just about the achievement; it was about how much I had grown during the process.

At the same time, I faced emotional challenges as friends I had grown close to prepared to graduate. Our last week’s together were filled with long talks, sharing stories about why we came to WISE and what we hoped for in the future. Their courage inspired me, but it also made me think about my own path. Soon, it would be my turn to leave, and the thought of job applications and career decisions made me both excited and nervous.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

As I reflect on my time at WISE, I see it as a journey full of growth. The guidance from professors like Professor Wang, the encouragement from teaching assistants, the lessons I learned from my friends, and even from the challenges—shaped me into a better version of myself. WISE was more than just an academic institution; it became a part of who I am.

As WISE celebrates its 20th anniversary, I feel proud to have been part of its story. I hope the faculty continues to guide and inspire students, helping them reach even greater heights.

Here’s to WISE—may it continue to thrive and lead the way in finance education for many years to come.

Happy 20th anniversary, WISE!