My name is Xin He, and I’ve collected hometowns like souvenirs: born in Sichuan, raised in Shanghai, and tempered by Beijing, where I earned my bachelor’s degree at Renmin University of China. If you connect the dots, my journey literally traces a triangle across China’s map. I chose to major in PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) largely because, at the age of 18, I preferred to stay unsettled. Throughout my undergraduate years, I experienced different styles of disciplines, and also tasted the bitterness of trial and error. These days, my academic heart beats for something close to home: China’s internal migration and social inequality. In my free time, I am passionate about hiking and cycling. Right before coming to America, I trekked around 75 km along the clockwise pilgrimage route at Mount Wutai—a sacred site believed to be the bodhimanda of Mañjuśrī, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. I made the journey not only for the views, but also to pray for blessings in my upcoming graduate studies. In my last undergraduate winter vacation, I took a memorable road biking trip around Hainan Island. The warm ocean breeze, challenging climbs, and endless coastal views made it an unforgettable adventure. I also have a future plan to ride the famous route G318—all the way from Sichuan to Tibet. Let’s see where the road takes us next!
Preferred Name: Xin
Please share the title of a book you’ve recently enjoyed and would recommend to your GLS colleagues. Thinking Like an Anthropologist: A Practical Introduction to Cultural Anthropology by John T. Omohundro
What movie or television show that you watched recently would you recommend to the rest of us? The Legend of Hei
Coming to the Duke GLS program, I hope to unlock my potential.
We’re going to make a GLS 2024 playlist on Spotify. Please recommend a song to include that speaks to how YOU feel as you embark on this new learning journey. It could be something that you’re listening to a lot now or a longtime favorite that captures the moment for you.
