Self-introduction

Question 1

Full (2–3 Minute) Self-Introduction DKU

Answer 1

Thank you for this opportunity. My name is Tina Huijuan Li. I completed my undergraduate studies in Chinese Language and Literature at Shandong Normal University, followed by two master’s degrees—one from Beijing Normal University in Comparative Literature and one from Duke University in East Asian Studies. I later enrolled into Duke’s Ph.D. program in History, where I advanced to ABD status and taught for five semesters. That teaching experience help me figure out my professional interest, that is direct work with college students. I love coaching them on study skills, helping them navigate challenges, and connecting them with campus resources. This directly aligns with the core duty of running the ARC Program.

My background has provided me with a unique understanding of the student experience. As a first-generation college student and an international scholar who has studied in the US, China, Japan, and Turkey, I bring deep empathy for students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those navigating academic challenges. Furthermore, my administrative internships have given me a practical, behind-the-scenes understanding of how academic units like the ARC function.

I understand this role isn’t just about direct student coaching; it’s about leadership, coordination, and seeing the big picture for the center. My experiences of serving on undergraduate researcher hiring committee, developing workshop from scratch, and collaborating across school departments like libraries and student affairs have prepared me to step into this position and contribute immediately to the team’s mission.

I am eager to bring my unique combination of college teaching experience, administrative skills, and cross-cultural empathy to support both the DKU students and the ARC team. Thank you.

Question 2

career break

Answer 2

When I was in Duke’s Ph.D. program in History, I completed all coursework and teaching assignments, and advanced to ABD status in December 2019, right before the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the pandemic-related challenges against my planned archival trips to Geneva and Shanghai, combined with several family crises, I decided to master out my phd program in 2023 to focus on my family. Now that these challenges have been resolved and my daughter has started preschool, I am eager to return to my professional path.

The full-time parenting period was not a waste of my time. I got the chance to