To the graduating class of 2024 Fall,
The Department of Asian Studies heartily congratulates you on the completion of your degree in Asian Studies from the University of British Columbia! We are extremely proud of you – this is an impressive achievement and we are inspired by your hard work and dedication!
To celebrate you, we composed this “UBC Asian Studies Class of 2024 Fall Graduates Yearbook” page featuring graduates sharing their perspectives on Asian Studies and thanks for those who supported their academic journeys.
2024 Fall Graduates Yearbook
Doctoral degree
Specialization: Japanese
Thesis title: Enlightenment for Plants: Religious Education and Entertainment in Kajō monogatari
Supervisor: Dr. Christina Laffin
My research examined the relationship between humans, nature, and entertainment in premodern Japan – relationships that I feel are even more relevant globally today. Challenging myself to look at the perspectives of a different time and culture has made me realize the strong parallels between then and now; there seem to be certain things that unite us all as humans no matter our differences. Wherever I go from here, I want to use my knowledge of Japanese history and literature to foster connections between people.
I want to thank the whole Asian Studies Department, from my supervisor and supervisory committee to department staff! We have a wonderfully supportive department and I count myself lucky to have been part of it. I would not be here without all of you!
Specialization: Punjabi and Sikh Studies
Thesis title: The splendor of several suns: the Gurpratāp Sūraj Granth and the Sikh intellectual tradition in the early 19th century
Supervisor: Dr. Anne Murphy
Specialization: East Asian International Relations
Thesis title: The “short-lived” challengers – The Qing merchants in Late Chosǒn Korea, 1882-1895
Supervisor: Dr. Nam-lin Hur
Asian Studies fosters deep cultural, historical, and political understanding of one of the world's most dynamic regions. My degree equipped me with expertise in East Asian history, international law, and economic collaboration, alongside practical research and analytical skills. Moving forward, I aim to bridge academic knowledge and actionable impact, promoting sustainable development, economic partnerships, and cross-cultural understanding to contribute meaningfully to global and regional cooperation.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity of being a student in the Department of Asian Studies at UBC. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my PhD supervisor, Professor Nam-lin Hur, for his invaluable guidance. I am deeply thankful to the faculty members whose mentorship and insights greatly enriched my academic experience. I also sincerely thank the Centre for Korean Research, the Centre for Chinese Research, and the Centre for Japanese Research for their unwavering support, which was instrumental in shaping my scholarly path and personal growth.
Master’s degree
Specialization: Japanese
Thesis title: A journey within fifty-three squares: playing with Tōkaidōchū Hizakurige in sugoroku board games
Supervisor: Dr. Joshua Mostow and Dr. Christina Laffin
Specialization: Japanese
Thesis title: Continuities and Discontinuities in Dazai Osamu's "Osan": Unveiling the Illusions of the Occupation Era
Supervisor: Dr. Christina Yi
I cannot stress enough how much of a pleasure it was for me to receive training in Asian Studies at UBC. As I gradually transition away from academia, which was once my comfort zone, and into the larger labour force, I realize that my specialized studies in Japanese literature not only allowed me to pursue my passion but also equipped me with a wide range of skills: language proficiency and an empathetic attitude to engage with a diverse community; the ability to approach and solve issues from interdisciplinary perspectives; and a willingness to learn and adapt.
I must extend my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, Dr. Christina Yi, who has been my greatest supporter and inspiration since my undergraduate years. I am also grateful to my advising committee, Dr. Sharalyn Orbaugh and Dr. Christina Laffin, for offering their invaluable expertise during the completion of my master’s thesis. Finally, I wish the very best to my friends who are forging their paths in Asian Studies and those who are continuing their studies at UBC.
Specialization: Chinese
Thesis title: Laboring (for) Machines: The Human–Machine Dynamics in Early Mao-era Science Fiction
Supervisor: Dr. Christopher Rea and Dr. Renren Yang
Asian Studies provide me with a method to undertand the convoluted past, the present we are involved in, and the spectualtive future. It includes questions regarding media, technologies, politics, literature, etc., which are indispensable parts for me to explore my existence in the world.
I am now in the Department of Asian Studies at Cornell University for Ph.D. studies.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my co-supervisors, Professor Christopher Rea and Professor Renren Yang, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout my master’s program. Professor Rea taught me “where research begins,” which is more precious than any theoretical approach. Professor Yang broadened my horizons in media studies and popular culture, challenging me to embrace unfamiliar methodologies and align my research with the Asian Studies field in North America.
Bachelor’s degree
Major in Asian Language and Culture (China)
As a Chinese born Canadian, I grew up feeling disconnected from my Chinese roots, as I couldn't speak any Cantonese/Mandarin and didn't celebrate any holidays, and I always felt like I wasn't "Chinese enough". For me, taking Asian Studies and Chinese courses helped me learn and understand my culture, and helped me feel closer to it. This degree has helped me figure out my future and what I want to do with life -- I'd love to travel to China and continue learning Mandarin and more about the culture, and to also find my identity along the way.
I would like to sincerely thank Hongyang Tao, my 2022W CHIN 335 and CHIN 337 professor! She helped me find motivation and inspiration for learning Mandarin, always encouraging me and my writing! 🙂
Major in Asian Language and Culture (Korea)
As a soon-to-be graduate of Asian Studies, I believe the field is vital for fostering cross-cultural understanding and addressing global challenges. It has provided me with insights into Asia’s diverse histories, cultures, and political landscapes, helping me develop critical thinking and a broader global perspective. This degree has deepened my appreciation for the region's influence and has shaped my ability to view the world through multiple lenses. I will carry these skills forward, using them to contribute to bridging cultural gaps, promoting international cooperation, and engaging in meaningful dialogues that address complex global issues.
I would like to thank my professors for their constant support throughout my academic journey. Their guidance, encouragement, and insightful feedback helped me overcome challenges and stay motivated. Their belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to push myself further. I am truly grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they’ve had on my growth.
Major in Asian Area Studies
Major in Asian Language and Culture (Japan)
The opportunity to learn another language, not to mention the high quality curriculum, is inevitably an importance of Asian Stuides. It has shaped me into thinking diversely, taking multiple steps and stages of consideration is a really good experience in communication skill.
I'd like to thank Professor Kim Ihhwa. She not only taught me the skill of Japanese language, but also pushed my limits through various challenges for me to achieve a higher standard.
Major in Asian Area Studies
To me, the importance of Asian Studies is that it has allowed me to learn more about the intersectionality of arts and culture, with the inclusion of political and social elements. It has also broadened my horizon about the region and areas I come from.
Shout-out to Renren Yang, one of the best professors in the department! I would also like to thanks my friends Jessica Yeung, Sonia Tang and Kate Wong for always being so supportive.
Major in Asian Area Studies
