Hongjiao Li

I embarked on my academic journey at Stanford's School of Education fresh from my undergraduate studies. As an international student from China, my curiosity about education was primarily rooted in my home country's distinctive system. At Stanford, I found a place to nurture that curiosity, where the vast academic resources, diversity, and passionate minds come together to pursue revolutionary studies.

I was immediately drawn to the spectrum of cultures represented in the ICE/IEPA program. Where else would you find such a diverse blend of thought and experience? This rich tapestry of global perspectives allowed me to engage in multifaceted dialogues that unfolded the beauty of cultures and dissected the educational challenges facing the world. The friendships I made spanned continents and offered a unique perspective on the role education plays globally.

Choosing to delve into the intricacies of gender, Hukou, and private tutoring in China for my thesis was no simple task. But it was a journey made easier by the unwavering support and guidance of the faculty at Stanford GSE. Every conversation, whether it was a casual chat with a friend from another program or a critical feedback session with a professor, planted seeds of growth within me. It strengthened my desire to pursue a Ph.D. in the future, with an undying commitment to helping children reach their full potential.

What stood out to me was the program's innate ability to accommodate each student's unique academic inclinations. Whether you were a seasoned researcher or just finding your way, Stanford GSE had a course, a path, and a mentor to guide you. Personally, the courses on research design, statistics, and qualitative research were enlightening. They offered me new ways to perceive the value and analytical process behind research studies.

Reflecting on my master's journey, the findings of the study not only contributed to the dialogue on educational equity in China, but also solidified my belief in the transformative power of informed, grounded research. The structure and ethos of the program are designed to foster holistic understanding. It pushed me to evaluate my topic not only from a theoretical perspective, but also from a sociological, philosophical, and pragmatic one. This multifaceted approach to education is what sets Stanford apart. It challenges you, supports you, and above all, believes in your potential.

Today, as I stand at the crossroads of my academic journey, I can confidently say that the Stanford GSE program has shaped a more complete version of me. A version that is resolutely committed to ensuring that students in China and around the world have unrestricted access to education, enabling them to recognize and realize their inherent worth.

Participating in this program felt like putting together an intricate puzzle. Each piece, whether it symbolized an experience, a lesson, or an interaction, played a crucial role in shaping the rich tapestry of my academic journey. To prospective students considering this path, I can confidently say that the experience will be enlightening.