Ray Wang (left) was elected as the student representative, Class of 2023, Master of Science in Global Health Program
“The reason why I went back to school is very simple – I want and need more knowledge. This is my motivation. But it was not an easy decision. At 38, I am expected to play the roles of a good father, a good husband, a good employee, or a good boss, which I’m so fortunate to already have. Now I wish to take on one more role at this stage in my life, a self-motivated learner.”
This is what Ray Wang articulated at the beginning of his personal statement detailing why he’d like to apply for the Master of Science in Global Health Program at Duke Kunshan University. Before joining Duke Kunshan, Ray worked for seven years in the NGO sector.
The decision for the right people, in the right place, at the right time
When asked why he decided to go back to school for graduate studies, Ray answered by a rhetorical question.
“What is education?” He then quoted American philosopher and educator John Dewey, “Education is a process of living and not a preparation for future living.” Ray sees education as an integral part of life, essential for everyone to reach their full potential and achieve great growth. Of course, Ray added, it is always important to think critically about what you have learned.
And why now? “I meant to come back to school a long while ago,” said Ray thoughtfully.
Ray strongly recommends the movie The Bucket List. “People should look into the future, and also should do self-reflection, on what they meant to do,” said Ray.
Regarding the right place, Ray answered with a touch of gentleness in his voice, “My child is in Kunshan, and I am a father.” This is indeed a simple but powerful reason.
Why he’d like to pursue a master’s degree in Globe Health? “Because it will allow me to effectively redistribute resources to engage more people in global health issues,” said Ray confidently. He has worked with top experts in the field, and has come to realize that greater value will be created when there is a stronger connection among experts of different sectors, which will only happen with effective leadership and communication. He would like to build such a bridge and bring together the expertise to contribute to the health sector. Inspired by this goal, Ray decided to pursue a master’s degree in Global Health at Duke Kunshan University, an ideal program to well prepare him for his future plans.
I see myself as a platform builder on campus
Ray sees life as a concert. “The conductor has to understand why composers wrote every note in that piece and communicates his interpretation to the musicians who then convey the message to the audience,” said Ray. “To deliver impactful results, I shall have a better understanding of the overall project and inspire team members who have various expertise to work towards the same goal with passion.”
Going back to school provides an interesting challenge for Ray Wang. He has long been working with experienced industry experts and it is a very refreshing experience to interact with much younger fellow students on campus. Ray enjoys talking to them, inspired by their fresh thinking. He often shares his experience and leverages his network to provide more opportunities for younger classmates.
“Age is not an issue,” said Ray. “By studying in Duke Kunshan’s excellent Global Health program, I can tap into a pool of great potential partners on campus. I would like to serve as a connector, bringing together the best talents for interesting and meaningful projects.”
Ray longs to be a person with a good vision and a good heart. “Dream big,” he added. “and you will forget how old you are.”
Be part of global health solution
Ray Wang focuses on two directions: tobacco control and mental health.
In his many previous projects, Ray had the experience of assisting mental health patients with many social concerns, cancer patients who died of fear rather than cancer, as well as heavy smokers of rural areas in finding out their lung cancers early and getting proper treatment.
The more projects Ray has worked on, the stronger he feels about the significance of health promotion and communication.
So, “being part of global health solution” is what Ray Wang has planned for himself after completing his studies. He aims to be a passionate and committed practitioner in global health and is making steady progress towards his goal.
