September 25, 2023
Qirui Gao is a current student in MS in Marketing and Retail Science (MRMRS) program. Meet Qirui Gao and learn more about his experience this summer at Stern and around NYC.
“This is Central Park in New York. It's very beautiful and there are a lot of people enjoying their weekends here. I highly recommend it for a relaxing study break!”
This is the most symbolic symbol of the United States. The Statue of Liberty symbolizes the people's right to freedom and democracy. I got to see it upfront during the program activity on the Circle Line Boat Cruise in July.”
“Standing in front of the New York Stock Exchange, you will feel the pulse of the financial world.. If you are interested in the financial markets, this is the perfect place to feel the pulse of the stock market and perhaps inspire you to do more in-depth investment research. The Stock Exchange is just a short walk from the Stern campus!”
“This is the view I captured from the Brooklyn Bridge. It's very beautiful. Everyone should go visit.”
Hometown: Nanjing, China
Undergraduate school: Macau University
Undergraduate major: Hospitality Management
Previous internship experience: Publicis media, PR intern
Reason for choosing this program:
- Faculty: The Stern School of Business and NYU Shanghai have an exceptional team of professors who are experts in their fields and have strong ties to the real world. I can benefit from their teachings and learn from their practical experience, which will help me succeed in my career.
- Campus resources: Both campuses in NY and Shanghai have an excellent library, research center, and student support services that will help me better complete my studies and get involved in academic research and projects.
- Alumni Network: NYU has a worldwide alumni network that includes many successful business leaders. As a student at the school, I will have the opportunity to join this large and powerful alumni community, which will help me tremendously in my career development.
Career goals and interests: Join the internet or fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industries
- What was your favorite course this summer?
My favorite course was Data-Driven Decision Making taught by Professor Xiao Liu. Professor Liu was very responsible and patient in teaching us a lot of software such as JMP, R language and Tableau. It was a very long process, but the professor skillfully used various cases to help us understand it, and the final Airbnb project gave us a lot of insights. All of these skills I learned from this course are applicable to future jobs I am interested in. For example, we can use sentiment analysis in market research for advertising agencies to further grasp consumers' emotional biases and thoughts about products and brands. I also learned more about logical methods of analysis and the syntax and rules of the languages and software, which I hope to use in future job interviews and possibly as a self-starter to make myself more competitive.
- What was your most memorable program experience this summer?
One of the most memorable program experiences I had was participating in a peer bonding activity, a trip to Central Park in New York City. What made this experience stand out was the unique combination of natural beauty and urban environment.
As we entered Central Park, I was immediately struck by the lush greenery, serene lakes, and picturesque bridges that contrasted so vividly with the bustling cityscape just outside the park. We got to see iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields.
However, what truly made this experience unforgettable was the sense of camaraderie among my peers. We laughed and chatted, played games, and had heart-to-heart conversations while appreciating the park around us.
- What was it like to study and live in NYC this summer?
I had the incredible opportunity to live in New York City and it was an experience like no other. My daily commute
During weekends, I made it a point to explore different neighborhoods. One thing that surprised me was how diverse and distinct each neighborhood was, offering a unique blend of cultures, cuisines, and atmospheres. For fun, I often visited the city's iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
- What is your advice for students studying at NYU Stern in NYC?
My advice for students studying at NYU Stern in the heart of New York City is to adopt the mantra: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”
Firstly, “Stay hungry” suggests that you should maintain a strong desire to acquire knowledge and grow academically. NYU Stern offers a wealth of resources, world-class faculty, and diverse courses. Make the most of these opportunities by approaching your studies with enthusiasm and a thirst for knowledge. Never settle for mediocrity; aim for excellence.
On the other hand, “Stay foolish” encourages you to be open to new experiences and take risks. NYC is a dynamic, ever-changing city filled with diverse cultures, industries, and ideas. Don't be afraid to explore beyond your comfort zone. Join clubs, attend networking events, and intern in various fields to broaden your horizons.
In essence, my advice is to blend the rigorous academic environment at NYU Stern with the limitless possibilities of NYC.
- What is one thing you’re looking forward to doing in Shanghai during the fall semester?
One thing I'm eagerly anticipating during the fall semester in Shanghai is the opportunity to secure an internship. I see this as a pivotal step in my educational journey, allowing me to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Interning in Shanghai offers a unique blend of experiences. It's a bustling metropolis with a vibrant business ecosystem, making it an ideal place to gain hands-on experience. By immersing myself in a professional environment, I aim to further expand my practical skills and enrich my understanding of my chosen field.