As a Ph.D. candidate in Applied Linguistics at the School of Languages, Linguistics, and Film, I have a diverse background in academia and industry.
What do you study? What’s your favourite part about what you study? What made you want to pursue a PhD?
“As a Ph.D. candidate in Applied Linguistics at the School of Languages, Linguistics, and Film, I have a diverse background in academia and industry. My journey began with a BA in China and Taiwan, followed by an MA in the US. Post-MA, I ventured into the industry, working with UPMC Enterprise in Pittsburgh and Apple in Shanghai, where I applied my expertise in analytical and computational linguistics to develop Machine Learning models using a Natural Language Processing (NLP) approach. My research interests include multimodal discourse, emoji usage in text-based online counselling, and sociolinguistics.
My approach to research mirrors the way I navigate life—with a spirit of exploration and a willingness to embrace the unknown. I'm not the typical researcher who has committed to academia from the start; rather, I thrive on experimenting with uncertainties, even if they can be daunting at times. This journey of discovery helps me learn more about myself along the way. For me, research is an extension of my life's philosophy: approaching each challenge with passion and authenticity, and understanding that obstacles are a natural part of the process. The most important aspect for me is to stay focused on my project and enjoy the journey.”
Tell us a bit about your background (where you are from etc...)
“My hometown, Qingdao—also known as 'Tsingtao'—is a vibrant city on China's east coast. It's famous for its German beer, a legacy of its colonial past. Qingdao's diverse population includes Chinese, Korean, and Japanese communities, creating a rich linguistic landscape where signs are often in Mandarin, English, and Korean. Growing up in a city shaped by both colonial history and modern socialist China, I was immersed in a blend of cultures and languages that sparked my curiosity about the nuances of communication. This led me to study linguistics and explore different countries.
However, this multicultural background also left me feeling uncertain about where I truly belong. Despite being ethnically Chinese, I sometimes don't feel fully connected to Chinese or East Asian identities. It's intriguing to recognize how I've internalized various cultural influences, but it also complicates my sense of belonging. London, with its own multicultural vibe, is where I first confronted this identity crisis that I had long suppressed. The city's diversity reminded me of many places I've been and made me grateful for the journey I'm on to discover who I am and where I fit in the world.”
What are you working on in the archives?
“I am working on translating Pao Swen Tseng’s autobiography from traditional Chinese into English. I look forward to showcasing more aspects of her life journey during this year’s Asian Heritage Month.”
What made you interested in this work and exploring the life of Pao Swen Tseng?
“East Asian representation is generally underrepresented. I believe there are still biased views on 'model Asians', a term often used to describe the perceived typical or average Asian individual, suggesting that we are quiet and reserved. However, I disagree and dislike the stereotypes of so-called 'positive racism ', a term used to describe seemingly positive stereotypes that are actually harmful and perpetuate racism. I hope to use this chance to explore more inspiring stories of the East Asian community, especially Chinese women.
One such story is Tseng's, which stands out for its unconventional nature. Her journey as a Chinese woman in a feudal society during one of China's most transformative periods is truly remarkable. In an era when survival was challenging for men, let alone women, Tseng's wisdom and strength enabled her to achieve incredible things. Her commitment to the education and empowerment of Chinese women is a powerful testament to the impact one individual can have. This spirit of dedication and love for humanity, as Erich Fromm describes in "The Art of Loving," resonates deeply with Tseng's life and legacy.
As a Chinese woman, exploring Tseng's life stories feels both personal and empowering. It's almost as if I'm having a conversation with her as I work on the translations. It's also gratifying to know that my skills in reading traditional Chinese are contributing to preserving and sharing these valuable archives.”
How did you come to know about this? How did this opportunity come about?
“Last September marked my arrival as a newcomer in a fresh academic adventure, embarking on my PhD journey. After years of moving from place to place, I found myself grappling with questions of identity and yearning for a community where I truly belonged. It was then that an email from the student union caught my eye—it announced the Asian Heritage Month event. Intrigued by the opportunity to explore the narratives of Asian students, especially those from East Asia, I decided to attend.
What I discovered was eye-opening. The stories shared were rich with experiences, shedding light on the unique challenges and triumphs of East Asian students. One story that stood out to me was of a South Korean student who had been misidentified as Chinese—a reflection of the general lack of awareness and curiosity about the rich diversity within the East Asian community. It was disheartening to learn about the mistreatment of East and Southeast Asians in the past, often reduced to stereotypes or overlooked entirely
Among the stories, one particularly inspiring one was that of a Chinese woman, the first of her nationality to graduate from Westfield College. She became a pioneering educator, dedicated to the empowerment and education of Chinese women. Despite the significance of her contributions, her story has largely been overshadowed by various historical biases. It feels like a privilege to dive into these forgotten chapters and bring them to light. I am excited to share her legacy this year and, in doing so, become part of this rich tapestry of history.”
What are some interesting things you have learned through your translation work?
“Did you know that Physiognomy was once considered a form of 'science' in Tseng's era? She is a master of Physiognomy, a fact that adds a layer of intrigue to her wide range of interests. It's fascinating to see someone trained in the Western tradition of science embrace something as controversial as Physiognomy, which was heavily criticized for its feudal roots. This aspect of Tseng's character truly showcases her open-mindedness, which is an essential quality for an educator.”
What are your interests outside of academics/research?
“I enjoy many things, including listening to music, watching films, reading, and walking around the park. These activities allow me to take my mind off of research. I am also open to trying new interests all the time. It's not really about what I do; it's more about being mindful while doing them.!
What are some cultural traditions that you enjoy/would like to share?
“I miss the tradition that during the dragon boat festival, my family will make bracelets with five colours in red, black, yellow, green and white for the meaning of protection. This tradition was not just about making bracelets, but also about the precious time spent with my family and making good wishes for the younger generation. A cute story behind it says that you must let the bracelet go when the first rain comes after the festival so the bracelet will turn into an earthworm to help the greens grow. I am still fascinated by this story, and it brings back nostalgic memories of our family bonding.”