What is your first U of A memory?
A white snow campus at the University of Alberta, while the environment was quiet and cold. I arrived in late January and started my work in February 2018 from Taiwan, so I experienced an impressive change.
What’s something your coworkers don’t know about you?
In my early years in Canada, every time I heard people ask me, “How are you?” With my ineloquent English, I tried very hard to tell them how I am. I think I am a pretty honest person, and I would sincerely answer the question. I would appreciate your patience if you want to know more about me.
What’s your favourite distraction?
I love the environment around campus and the river valley. My favourite distraction is walking after work or on the weekend, when I can immerse myself in nature on a sunny day.
If you were enrolling in one course, program or degree right now, what would it be?
If I were enrolling in a course right now, it would be oil painting. I want to learn how to capture what I see, feel, and experience on canvas. I have a strong desire to paint the landscapes and changing seasons of Canada, bringing them to life through color and texture.
If you could invite anyone — alive or dead, real or fictional — to dinner, who would it be?
My parents passed away 15 years ago. Over the years, I realized how deeply they loved me, but I have not shown them the same depth of love in return. I wish I could invite them to dinner and tell them how much they mean to me.
If you could see any live performance tomorrow, what would it be?
I’ve always wanted to see The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber, featuring the unforgettable performances of Sarah Brightman and Michael Crawford. It’s my favorite musical, and I’ve listened to the soundtrack countless times—each time, the music brings me comfort. Years ago, while traveling in London, I missed the chance to see it in the West End, but it remains a dream of mine to experience it live.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?
Keep seeking and exploring the unknown world until you find your inspiration and engage yourself on it consistently. No effort is wasted in your life journey.
What’s one thing you can’t live without?
I am a Christian and trust in God's love. I rely on the faith and cannot live without it. As English is my second language, I came to Canada to work and live alone. Most of the time, I feel alone and struggle even when I have support from my coworkers and friends. God’s love is unconditional and present with me whenever and whatever I ask.
What three words describe your U of A experience?
Respect, trust, and gratitude.
I respect my colleagues and trust them, and they do the same in return. I am so grateful for every achievement we accomplish together.
Do you have any upcoming projects or initiatives you are looking forward to at work?
Yes, I recently curated the exhibition Birds and Beasts: Wearing Honour and Order in the Qing Dynasty, open now until June 28, 2025. Our team organized a series of programs, including lectures, tours and family activities. I am looking forward to the lectures given by my colleagues, Dr. Wen-chien Cheng (Curator from the Royal Ontario Museum) and Dr. Corwin Sullivan. These activities are all free and everyone is welcome to join. Please view the exhibition website for more details.
