Haroan “Elvis” Wu

GSE Program:

MA, International Education Policy Analysis (IEPA)

Degree(s):

Bachelor of Commerce, Finance and Economics, University of Melbourne

MS in Development Economics, University of Oxford

Year of GSE degree:

2022

Age:

28

Hometown:

Shanghai, China

"There are many options here, and it's best to think ahead about what you want. As long as you plan ahead and use your school resources wisely, then you can make it happen."

You’ve arrived at spring quarter! How would you describe your experience so far?

My experience at Stanford [has] far exceeded my expectations. First of all, the whole GSE community is so nice, you can feel everyone's passion for education and love for life, and everyone supports and encourages each other. The faculty here is even better than I expected, and no matter what kind of questions you have, they will try to help you and will offer to provide any kind of resources you might need, whether it's for academics or job hunting.

Why Stanford?

Everyone I met at Stanford was very interesting and unique, and I'm very grateful to Stanford for bringing everyone together and creating so many possibilities. When a group of very interesting souls get together, there are always a lot of fantastic ideas that come out. With the smartest and most interesting classmates, the most cutting-edge perspective on technology and innovation, the most supportive environment for entrepreneurship, countless jobs in Silicon Valley's big companies, super patient and visionary professors, a strong alumni network after graduation, and the California sunshine, why not choose Stanford?

How would you describe the other students in your cohort?

If I had to describe my teammates in one word, I would use "amazing.” They are all amazing, they are all my family, and I love them. We live together like a family and we celebrate each member's birthday with surprises and gifts. Especially during COVID, everyone is very united and one person with a problem will basically get solidarity from everyone. We also work out together, play ball, go on trips, and share our stories and feelings.

What were you doing prior to applying to the GSE?

Before coming to Stanford, I studied development economics at Oxford University. Before that, I studied economics and finance at the University of Melbourne, where I was both an assistant professor and a teaching assistant.

What advice do you have for students who are trying to decide whether to attend the ICE/IEPA program?

This is the best place for learning international education policy!

Any tips for incoming students to help them get the most from their time at Stanford?

There are many options here, and it's best to think ahead about what you want. As long as you plan ahead and use your school resources wisely, then you can make it happen.

What do you do to relax and have fun?

I often organize hiking trips to various places for my friends to enjoy the beauty of California. I cook at home and invite friends over. I also go to the school gym every week to work out or go to the golf course to practice golf.