Lixing Li
M.Ed. Educational Leadership - Higher Education Administration
Education
William & Mary, Doctor of Philosophy, Educational Policy, Planning & Leadership - Higher Education Administration
Describe your career and how the William & Mary School of Education helped prepare you.
I am currently working as an academic advisor at Olin Business School, Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to that, I worked in different functional areas, such as international admission, recruiting, programming, coaching, and cross-cultural teaching. The William & Mary School of Education has played a pivotal role in shaping my career trajectory. Its rigorous curriculum, practical experiences, and supportive faculty provided me with a solid foundation in educational theory and research. During my time in the program, I was fortunate to work at the Undergraduate Admission Office, the Reves Center for International Studies, and Confucius Institutes on campus. These opportunities allowed me to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, while the collaborative environment fostered valuable interpersonal and leadership skills. Thanks to the comprehensive education and opportunities, I am well-equipped to excel in my current role and maintain a life-long learning mindset.
Why did you choose to apply to William & Mary and specifically to your program?
I chose to apply to William & Mary because it is a prestigious medium-sized university renowned for its academic excellence. Specifically, I was drawn to the program due to its small and inclusive nature. The intimate faculty-to-student ratio offers abundant resources and opportunities for meaningful experiences. Moreover, the curriculum is both practical and comprehensive, aligning well with my academic and career goals in higher education administration. As a top "public ivy" institution, William & Mary consistently ranks highly across various areas, further affirming its appeal to me. I was convinced that immersing myself in such a program at a leading institution like William & Mary would provide invaluable firsthand insights into becoming an effective higher education professional.
What has been the most influential experience as an alum?
As an alum, my experience at William & Mary inspires me to continue challenging myself and getting out of my comfort zone. It encouraged me to make a difference to the community. I have a commitment to advocate for international students and staff who are studying and working in higher education. In recent years, I have been actively involved in the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) and have shared my experience to support more young professionals who share my passion. I have recently been selected as the Chair-elect at ACPA Commission for Global Dimensions on Student Development (CGDSD).
Any additional information you think a prospective student should know about the School of Education and our degree programs?
In addition to the exceptional curriculum, the program fosters a supportive and inclusive environment conducive to personal and professional growth. As one of the few international students in my cohort, I never felt lonely; instead, I found a community dedicated to my success. I received continuing support and encouragement from faculty, staff and peers throughout my journey. Collaborating with a group of excellent students motivated me to grow fast and build my confidence. The School of Education provided students numerous opportunities to discover my full potential. This emphasis on inclusivity and support ensures that every student, regardless of background, has the resources and encouragement needed to thrive academically and personally.
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Ph.D. in educational policy, planning & leadership - Higher Education Administration
