Convocation 2025: Di Xu

Community engagement is more than an academic exercise, says Di Xu, who is graduating with a master’s degree in the subject. His extensive experience in the university setting, both as an administrator and as a student, has taught him that effective cross-cultural community building starts with establishing strong connections with classmates, professors and local — and sometimes international — community partners. 

His practicum work, focused on a new joint Master of Public Health program between the University of Alberta and Wenzhou Medical University in China, was not only a reaffirmation of this principle, it was a real-world experience that bridged theory and practice within a crucial international collaborative context.

“Working with both universities allowed me to see how community engagement principles can strengthen cross-cultural partnerships and create lasting educational impact,” he says, adding that as a graduate of the program, he remains committed to furthering local and international partnerships and building strong academic communities.

Congratulations Di!

Which degree are you receiving?

A Master of Arts in Community Engagement from the School of Public Health. 

What drew you to this area of study?

I was drawn to the community engagement degree program because it brings together my passion for international collaboration and my belief in the power of community-driven change.

Having worked for years in university international affairs, I wanted to better understand how academic institutions can build more meaningful and equitable partnerships with communities. This program allowed me to explore those questions in a supportive and inspiring environment.

What achievement, accomplishment or moment are you most proud of from your time in the program?

I am most proud of contributing to the new joint Master of Public Health program between the University of Alberta and Wenzhou Medical University in China, which is currently under development, as part of my practicum. It was a meaningful opportunity to apply what I learned in class to a real-world international collaboration. 

Working with both universities allowed me to see how community engagement principles can strengthen cross-cultural partnerships and create lasting educational impact.

How did you stay motivated when things got tough?

There were definitely challenging moments, especially as an international student adapting to a new environment while being away from my family. What kept me motivated was remembering why I started — to learn how communities create positive change and to contribute to meaningful international partnerships. I also found strength in the support of my classmates, professors and friends, whose encouragement reminded me that learning is not a solitary journey.

What was/are your go-to spots on campus? Why?

My favourite spot on campus is the river valley area near the U of A campus. I love spending quiet moments there surrounded by trees and open space — it’s the perfect place to reflect, recharge and find balance between study and life. The peaceful atmosphere always reminds me to slow down and appreciate the beauty around me, even during the busiest times of the semester.

What did you learn about yourself during your time at the U of A?

I learned that I am resilient, adaptable and deeply motivated by meaningful work. Balancing academic challenges, cross-cultural projects and life as an international student showed

me that I can navigate complexity while staying focused on my goals. I also discovered the value of listening and learning from others — classmates, professors and community partners — which has strengthened both my professional skills and personal growth.

What advice would you give to a student considering your area of study?

My advice would be to stay curious, open and ready to listen. Community engagement work is as much about understanding people and building relationships as it is about theory. Take every opportunity to connect with classmates, professors and community partners — those experiences will teach you lessons that no textbook can. And don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone; that’s where the most meaningful learning happens.

What's next for you in your career and/or academic journey? What do you hope to accomplish?

After graduating from the MACE program, I hope to continue working in university administration with a focus on international collaboration and community engagement. I aim to build stronger partnerships between universities across countries, creating programs that are mutually beneficial for students, faculty and communities. Ultimately, I want to contribute to meaningful educational experiences that connect academic knowledge with real-world impact.