Graduate of CPS: Mingwei Sun
Master of Science in Corporate and Organizational Communications, ‘24
First Generation College Graduate
Where are you from or where do you consider home?
China
Please provide 3 words that encapsulate your Northeastern University experience:
Challenge. Change. Growth.
What has your journey at Northeastern University revealed to you about yourself?
My journey at Northeastern was truly like that of a Husky. I learned what it means to be resilient in the face of challenges, to stay curious in the face of uncertainty, and to show courage in the face of change.
Before coming here, I was unsure of my path. But throughout my time at Northeastern, I discovered my voice, my confidence, and my passion. I love how interdisciplinary the university is—it gave me the opportunity to explore different fields and perspectives. I took courses in communication, global studies, digital media, and even lighting for film. These experiences opened doors I never imagined.
Now, I dare to pursue a career where I can build bridges across cultures and foster global understanding. I dare to step into Boston’s Fashion Industry—not just as a spectator, but as a director, supporting the artists and designers I admire at City Hall. I dare to raise my voice to create meaningful impact and help others build a better future.
Most of all, I dare to create community, become a leader, launch my own start-up called WE:World Explorer, and go out into the world to show that I am ready for challenge and change.
Huskies always dare to embrace the unknown, push boundaries, and lift each other up—and I’ve proudly become one of this family.
My journey at Northeastern was truly like that of a Husky. I learned what it means to be resilient in the face of challenges, to stay curious in the face of uncertainty, and to show courage in the face of change.
What motivated you to continue through challenging times in obtaining your degree?
I reminded myself often that graduation is not the end—it’s the beginning of something new. There were tough moments—navigating a new city, adapting to a different culture, building a life from scratch—but I always remembered: “No challenge, no change.” I kept going because I believed in the value of learning and growing. I looked at how far I’d come and how much I had contributed—not just for myself, but for the community around me. That purpose kept me motivated.
Experiential learning is a core component of a Northeastern education. Describe some of the highlights for you.
Experiential learning changed everything for me.
During my co-op, I served as the Curry Student Center Manager, where I had the opportunity to lead events, shape student experiences, and make Northeastern a more inclusive and welcoming place. I organized cultural events that helped students, especially Asian students, feel seen, heard, and connected. One student even told me, “This is the first time I’ve felt a sense of belonging here.” That moment meant the world to me.
Working for Northeastern helped me understand the culture and the people that make this community so special. It taught me how higher education can bring people from different backgrounds together to build a more compassionate and interconnected world.
I also had the chance to collaborate with OGS during International Education Week, where I led a Chinese calligraphy workshop. That experience reminded me how powerful study abroad can be, it’s about connection, storytelling, and building a better future together.
Where do you imagine yourself five years from now?
In five years, I see myself working as a documentary or creative director—telling meaningful stories that amplify unheard voices and explore cross-cultural identities. I want to build something that inspires people and creates connection across borders.
Northeastern showed me how big the world truly is. It opened my heart and shifted my mindset. The world no longer feels overwhelming, it feels like my oyster.
I never imagined I’d be graduating in the middle of a snowy Boston winter, still wearing the same boots and carrying the same backpack I started with. But I’ve grown into someone who’s ready for the journey ahead.
I may not have everything planned, but I know this: I’m ready.
Is there anything else you wanted to say that we didn’t cover?
Coming to Boston wasn’t easy. I had to build my life from zero—new city, new culture, new challenges. But I always reminded myself:
When life brings a wave, just surf with it. Have fun and enjoy the ride. And with that mindset, life here has been so much fun.
I’ve learned from professors who changed my perspective, like Professor Bob, who taught us to be rockstars on social media and helped me find the confidence to share my voice with over 20,000 followers. I’ve been inspired by Professor Patty, who traveled the world to empower women leaders and inspired me to become a Global Changemaker.
As a double Husky, I’ve led impactful campaigns during my co-op, celebrating Women’s History Month, advocating for Pride, and standing for diversity and humanity.
And now, I’ve launched a podcast called “Beyond Classrooms”, a space where we explore learning that goes beyond textbooks, grades, and traditional lecture halls.
And above all, I’ve found a community. I’ve met Huskies, brilliant, passionate people from all over the world who’ve changed my life in ways I will forever treasure.
Connect with Mingwei on Instagram, LinkedIn, Eportfolio and Rednote.
