Q&A with Yunfei Yan

Why did you choose UCL to study your undergraduate degree?

I chose UCL primarily for its outstanding academic reputation – particularly the Institute of Education, which is consistently ranked world-leading. My volunteer teaching experience in Indonesia sparked a deep interest in exploring educational inequalities. I was confident that IOE’s distinguished faculty would nurture my growth in this field.

What do you miss most about studying at UCL?

I miss studying alongside my classmates. UCL provides fantastic self-study spaces, like the libraries and Student Centre. I loved being there with friends – it created an immersive atmosphere that made learning effortless. 

Are there any experiences at your time at UCL that shaped or supported you in your future career?

A pivotal experience was the Placement Module led by Prof Mark Freeman in my second year. Through it, I interned at the UCL Petrie Museum under Curator Dr Anna Garnett. My work involved documenting and transcribing the archives of Margaret Murray and Georgina Aitken, analysing artifact texts to explore female educators’ teaching models, and curating an exhibition based on my research.

This experience gave me a tangible sense of the profound role educators play in higher education and ignited my passion for inquiry. This was further strengthened during my dissertation, supervised by Dr JD Carpentieri. Researching factors affecting collaboration effectiveness in group work, our discussions deepened my interest in academic research.

Tell us a bit about your career

I currently work at The Education University of Hong Kong, where I am responsible for implementing a new postgraduate programme. My role involves handling administrative documents, syllabus design, programme promotion, admissions, and student consultations. Additionally, I support my team with research tasks, which vary depending on each member’s focus area.

After graduating from UCL, I pursued a postgraduate degree at the University of Hong Kong. This experience qualified me to work in Hong Kong and eventually led me to my current position. I take pride in contributing to the academic community while continuing to explore research interests that began during my time at UCL.

What has been your career highlight so far

The highlight has been seeing the successful implementation of the new postgraduate programme I worked on. Being involved throughout the entire process, from conducting extensive preliminary research and engaging in evidence-based discussions with university committees and external reviewers, to refining the curriculum through multiple rounds of revisions, made me truly appreciate how challenging it is to bring an academic programme to life.

Watching the first cohort enrol and knowing I contributed to building something that will shape students’ educational journeys has been incredibly rewarding.

What are your future career aspirations?

I want to remain in the higher education sector, as I truly thrive in this dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. I am committed to pursuing a PhD to deepen my research interests and contribute original insights to the field of education. Ultimately, I hope to establish myself in a university setting where I can balance teaching and research responsibilities, guiding students while continuing to explore questions that matter in education.

What makes you most proud to be a UCL alumnus?

UCL’s enduring commitment to inclusivity. From its foundation, UCL broke barriers and this inclusive spirit remains palpable today. The university motto, “Let all come who by merit deserve the most reward,” truly captures my journey. Although my performance in high school wasn’t outstanding, my determination and effort earned me a place at UCL. That opportunity transformed my life.

More information

• Learn more about the Education, Society and Culture BA
• See more student Q&As

Last updated 28 April 2026.