Faces of CPS: Dr. Jinghang Cui
Alumni | Doctor of Education, Class of 2023
Tell us about your background. Where do you call home?
I’m originally from China, and I’m proud to say I’m the first in my family to attend college.
What three words would you use to describe your Northeastern experience?
Transformative, Supportive, Innovative.
What drew you to pursue a doctoral degree in education?
Love and passion in the field of health education. I was deeply committed to my work and wanted to find a way to advance both my professional practice and my ability to make a meaningful impact in the field.
What was your biggest challenge before enrolling at Northeastern?
Before enrolling at Northeastern, my biggest challenge was finding a way to balance my full-time professional responsibilities with the ambitious goal of pursuing a doctoral degree. I was deeply committed to my work and had many ongoing projects, which made me question whether I could devote the necessary time and energy to a rigorous academic program. I also had some apprehensions about transitioning back into an academic setting, particularly with the action research and online learning model that Northeastern offers.
How did you overcome those challenges?
What truly helped me overcome these challenges was developing a structured, personalized plan. I set clear priorities and created a schedule that allowed me to integrate my professional commitments with my academic pursuits. Northeastern’s flexible online format was a game changer—it enabled me to study at times that suited my work schedule, while still participating in critical in-person residencies that enriched my learning experience.
Equally important was the support I received from the faculty and my fellow students. Their insights, encouragement, and shared experiences made me feel that I wasn’t alone in this journey. Through regular interactions, academic advising, and the dynamic learning community, I gradually built the confidence and skills needed to successfully navigate both worlds.
What inspired you to choose Northeastern specifically?
First, I was inspired by the university’s commitment to experiential, practice-powered learning. The program’s innovative approach—blending flexible online coursework with in-person residencies—aligned perfectly with my need to balance my professional responsibilities with academic growth. Additionally, the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with distinguished faculty and a diverse cohort of fellow professionals really resonated with me.
What opportunities have you experienced at Northeastern?
Since joining Northeastern, I’ve experienced a wealth of opportunities. I’ve been able to engage in action research projects that have a real-world impact, expand my professional network, and further refine my leadership and research skills. The support and mentorship provided by faculty, along with the dynamic peer community, have enriched my learning journey immensely.
Were there any ongoing challenges during your time at CPS?
At the same time, there have been challenges. Balancing a full-time career with rigorous academic demands often required careful time management and prioritization. Integrating the flexibility of online learning with the structure of in-person residencies also presented occasional logistical hurdles. Yet, these challenges have been instrumental in my personal and professional development, pushing me to evolve and adapt continuously.
What has your journey at Northeastern revealed about yourself?
My journey at Northeastern has been transformative. I’ve learned that I’m more adaptable and resilient than I ever imagined. Balancing a demanding professional career with rigorous doctoral studies pushed me to reexamine my priorities and embrace continuous growth. I discovered that I thrive in an environment where diverse ideas and hands-on, action-oriented learning are not only valued but are the norm.
The challenges and opportunities I encountered affirmed that I have the inner drive to lead change, innovate in educational practice, and continually redefine my own boundaries. This journey has not only deepened my commitment to lifelong learning but also reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and self-reflection to unlock one’s full potential.
What advice would you give to others considering higher education?
From my experience as a Doctor of Education and a member of the Northeastern community, I’ve learned that higher education is as much a personal journey as it is an academic one.
For Students: Embrace your curiosity and be honest with yourself about your ambitions. Seek out programs that not only offer rigorous academics but also provide flexible, supportive environments. Build relationships with peers and mentors early on; they can help you navigate challenges and celebrate your successes. Remember, higher education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s a transformative process that will reveal strengths you never knew you had.
For Faculty and Staff: Invest in your own professional growth and be open to lifelong learning. Understand that your role extends beyond the classroom or administrative office—it’s about shaping a vibrant, inclusive community that fosters student success. Engage in collaborative efforts, share your experiences, and be proactive in seeking opportunities to enhance both your personal and professional lives.
Ultimately, higher education is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Challenges will arise, but they are the very opportunities that reveal your resilience, adaptability, and commitment to making a difference. Stay true to your purpose, lean on your community, and never stop learning.
This journey taught me that success isn’t defined solely by degrees or accolades—it’s defined by the impact you make, the relationships you build, and the continuous evolution of your own understanding.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
One additional thought I’d like to share is that higher education is not just a phase you go through—it’s an ongoing journey of personal and professional evolution. Beyond academics and career preparation, my time at Northeastern taught me the immense value of self-reflection and community. When you engage deeply with your studies, colleagues, and the broader network, you not only gain knowledge but also discover who you truly are.
I’ve learned that being open to feedback and being adaptable—whether in a classroom setting or in professional roles—can transform challenges into opportunities. Every experience, even the unexpected setbacks, has helped shape a resilient mindset that continues to guide my growth. I encourage anyone considering this path to embrace change, seek out diverse perspectives, and always invest in building genuine, supportive relationships. These aspects, although sometimes overlooked, are what truly enrich your journey in higher education and beyond.
