July 13, 2023

Name: Junlin LI

Hometown: Guangzhou, China

Undergraduate school: NYU Tisch School of the Arts

Undergraduate major: Game Design

Previous work/internship experience before the MS program:  

• Internships at ClearOps Inc., Guangdong ADD Flavor & Fragrance CO., Ltd., Perfect World Inc.
• Full-time market analyst at Guangzhou Culinary Seasoning Master Co., Ltd

 

You did your undergraduate study at NYU Tisch, why did you choose the MS Organization Management & Strategy (MSOMS) program to become a double Violet? 

Despite majoring in Game Design at NYU Tisch, I devoted a significant portion of my time to studying marketing and management at NYU Stern because of my enduring passion for business. In the beginning, as a gamer, I dreamt of establishing my own gaming company dedicated to game production and creation. However, through interactions with talented classmates and brilliant professors, I recognized my longstanding enthusiasm for entrepreneurship and organizational management. Therefore, I applied to the MSOMS program to broaden my network and strengthen my managerial acumen to become a successful leader.

What was (were) your favorite course(s) and why?  

My favorite course in the program has always been Professor Tim Klatte's "Managing Change in Management." This course captivated me with its comprehensive exploration of organizational development, which is a critical aspect of successful organizational management. The course included understanding the stages of organizational development, implementing change management models, and addressing the psychological aspects of change. Furthermore, the course emphasized the importance of effective communication and leadership in driving successful change initiatives. His teaching provided me with significant insight on my future career path. Throughout the course, Professor Klatte expertly demonstrated various strategies and techniques for effective change management in an organization. His engaging teaching style, combined with his own experience in Deloitte and Grant Thornton, made the class insightful and interesting. Outside of the classroom, he showed selfless support for students on career path advice, recommendations, and startup counseling. 

What are some takeaways from the capstone project experience?

Instead of focusing on industry-specific knowledge, I acquired essential skills in team building, team management, project management, and effective communication. These experiences have contributed to my growth as a leader, enabling me to become more adept in organizational management. 

Do you currently have an internship or did you have an internship during your program study? If yes, how did you find this internship and what knowledge or skills did you learn from this internship?  

No internship during the program.

How do you think the joint set up of the program between Stern and NYU Shanghai impacts the student experience?  

During my five years as an NYU student, I have formed a strong relationship with both the New York and Shanghai campuses. Each campus feels like home, thanks in part to the diverse and inclusive academic environment that I have had the pleasure of experiencing.

How has this program shaped your career aspirations?    

The MSOMS program offers a variety of courses focused on entrepreneurship. By leveraging the knowledge gained through these courses, I have been able to develop my own entrepreneurial business concepts and pave the way for my exciting professional journey.

What are your plans after graduation?    

Currently I have founded two startups:

1). GPT-powered game NPC and world design engine (Co-founded): this project focuses on the development of GPT-powered dialogue, NPC, and dynamic world creation engine that integrates symbolic AI and knowledge graphs, tailored specifically for gaming.

2). Chinese Dessert (Tong Sui) Distribution (Self-founded): This project involves introducing and distributing traditional Chinese desserts (Tongsui/guangdong tangshui) to the US market with an innovative style.

I am filled with excitement for the challenges and the journey that awaits me following graduation.

What else did you enjoy about being a student in this program? (ie. social, academic, professional examples)  

The MSOMS community is filled with numerous individuals with ambitious career aspirations, and I am truly honored to be a part of the program alongside such talented and driven people who are fervent about their future dreams. Furthermore, as a longstanding member of the NYU badminton team, I had the privilege of becoming this year's NYUSH badminton team leader that allowed me to connect with many exceptional students who share a passion for both the sport and the school.

What is your advice for prospective students who are interested in the program? 

Be courageous about potential failures, be genuine to your friends, be curious about your future, and be determined to achieve your dreams.