Fueled by the belief that education is both a personal symbol of success and a path to standing out in a crowded world, Songhe Shi left behind a stable, well-paying job in China to chase a lifelong dream of earning a graduate degree.

Where are you from?

I’m from China. What I like most about St. John’s is the beautiful natural scenery, comfortable living environment, and kind and friendly people.

What do you enjoy doing for fun?

In my spare time, I like to go out with friends to try various cuisines in the city, explore the beautiful natural scenery of St. John's, try cooking various dishes at home, and go to the movies.

Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?

The reason why I decided to pursue a graduate degree is that I believe a graduate degree allows me to deepen my knowledge in the area that I’ve been working in, helps me stand out in crowded job markets, and provides me with the opportunity to build up networking. To me, earning an advanced degree is a lifelong goal and a symbol of success.

Why did you choose Memorial University for your graduate studies?

I chose Memorial University of Newfoundland for my graduate studies for many reasons. First is its affordable tuition and low cost of living. Memorial University’s tuition fees are one of the lowest in Canada for both domestic and international students. Also, Memorial has a very high reputation for its education quality and academic levels, and it has very good national and global rankings. Moreover, Memorial has a very supportive academic environment. Smaller class size here allows me to obtain closer faculty mentorship. Studying here gives me access to all the top university-level learning resources. Finally, the welcoming community and student life at Memorial are awesome.  Take my own program as an example, all the faculty and staff are very friendly and supportive. They will patiently listen to your problems and difficulties and then do everything they can to help you. They just give off that feeling of always being ready to help students.

How would you describe your experience as a graduate student at Memorial?

My experience as a graduate student at Memorial is incredible and unforgettable. Memorial provides me with all the resources I need to help me realize my dreams. This experience at Memorial will be the most valuable in my life!

What scholarships or awards have you received?

Fellow of the School of Graduate Studies 2024-2025

Atlantic Credit Unions Graduate Awards in Business 2024-2025

Joe O’Neil Memorial Award 2024-2025

Atlantic Credit Unions Promise Scholars in Business 2023-2024

Faculty of Business Administration Associates Scholarship Fund 2023-2024

Have you faced any challenges in life that you’ve overcome to pursue graduate studies?

The biggest challenge that I’ve ever faced in my life to pursue graduate studies was the time when I had to make the decision to give up my previous stable and well-paying job and go back to school to pursue my graduate degree. At the beginning, I felt skeptical that I had made a wrong decision. But after coming to Memorial, I realized that my decision was not wrong, and it was all worth it.

What industry or career path are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

After graduation, I’m interested in pursuing a career either in the Human Resource Management field or in the Accounting/Finance field.

What advice would you give to current or future graduate students?

Graduate school may not be easy, and you may encounter a variety of difficulties that you have not experienced before. But please make sure that you stick to your original intention and face them bravely. You will find that at Memorial, you are not alone; everyone here stands with you and helps you to overcome these challenges and difficulties. When you finally stand on the stage of the graduation ceremony and hold your degree in your hand, you will realize that everything you have experienced in your postgraduate life will be one of the most beautiful memories in your life. You must believe in yourself and strive forward toward that dream of yours!

Anything else you would like to share?

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone I have met in the graduate program (MER) I have attended. All the faculty and staff administrators here, each and every one of them, are some of the friendliest and supportive people I have ever met. It is because of their selfless help that I am where I am today. I would also like to thank my fellow students whom I have studied and from whom I have learned so much. I am truly grateful to them all!

Become a graduate student at Memorial. Apply online today!