Meet Li Zhi Liao, class of 2017. Li has combined her love of Chinese and mathematics as a financial analyst, and shares how majoring in Chinese (or any language) is a major asset in any career.
What was your major?
I was a double major in Chinese and Applied Mathematics.
What are you up to now?
I currently work as a financial analyst in my company's financial planning and analysis team. My main tasks involve helping to plan and predict our financial future, as well as creating reports and presentations for senior management and executives.
How did your experience at UC Davis prepare you for the next step in your professional journey?
My experience in LangLit has equipped me with advanced communication skills and critical thinking abilities, which are invaluable in any professional setting. These skills enable me to analyze complex texts, articulate ideas effectively, and engage with diverse perspectives. Additionally, my proficiency in Chinese, acquired through my language and literature studies, has directly prepared me for my career. By understanding and utilizing Chinese-language financial reports and market analyses, I have gained valuable skills for budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling, essential for my professional endeavors.
What's your advice for someone considering your major?
I highly recommend studying a language. For instance, while one may not directly utilize Chinese language proficiency in their chosen career paths, the analytical skills honed through language and literature studies are universally applicable. These skills empower one to navigate complex challenges and collaborate effectively with diverse teams across various fields, such as finance, healthcare, and technology. The ability to critically analyze information, articulate ideas persuasively, and engage with diverse perspectives is invaluable in any professional setting. Therefore, studying a language extends beyond direct language use in future careers, providing individuals with essential skills for success in an interconnected world.
Do you have a professor or a class you want to shout out?
I want to shout out to Professor Halperin for his exceptional Classical Chinese classes. His dedication to teaching and his passion for the subject were truly inspiring. Professor Halperin's expertise, combined with his engaging and humorous teaching style, left a lasting impression on me. I am continually thankful for the guidance he provided both during my time in school and now, as I navigate the professional world.