Where are you from, and what are you currently studying, or have you studied, and at which institution?
I was born in Beijing, China and moved to Hong Kong at a young age. I’m currently completing a Master of Wine Business, where I will graduate at the end of the year, from the University of Adelaide, which will combine with the University of South Australia to become Adelaide University in 2026.
Before moving to Adelaide, I completed my Bachelor's degree in Economics at Taiwan University (NTU).
What has your timeline in Adelaide looked like?
Two years ago, I moved to Adelaide to start my study journey.
In my first year, the support and encouragement of my lecturers really nurtured my interest in wine. Over time, the wine culture here has truly grown on me.
In my second year, I wanted to take my passion further and explore wine-making. This isn’t typically part of the wine business curriculum; however, after speaking with my course coordinator, I was thrilled to receive their full support to take the two-part wine-making course. I loved every minute of it.
The hands-on experience, from cultivating grapes to fermentation and presenting the final product, gave me a much deeper understanding of the entire winemaking process.
During my time in Adelaide, I became a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, and I was excited to receive the Adelaide Business School - Wine Tourism Outstanding Academic Award.
To further build my qualifications, I also completed a WSET III Certification at TAFE SA.
Currently, I am working part-time as an Assistant Sommelier at the National Wine Centre. Earlier this year, our lecturer shared the opening through email. I decided to take the leap and apply. It was actually my very first time applying and interviewing for a job.
I went into the interview expecting a formal evaluation, but it turned out to be more of a conversation. I ended up asking more questions than answering, especially about different wine regions. My manager shared so much industry insight with me that the whole process felt more like a learning session than an interview. I was thrilled when I got the job.
The role includes a range of different things, from managing the inventory of wines to leading a wine tasting experience. I've had the chance to speak with wine experts from all over the world, including a winery owner from overseas who came to South Australia to learn and explore.
Every interaction challenges my communication skills, especially when it comes to introducing wines to people with different levels of knowledge and interest.
During my first week, I successfully guided a group of ten people on a wine tour and received a lot of positive feedback. That experience gave me even more confidence in my abilities.
What motivated you to choose Adelaide over other Australian cities for your studies?
When I was living in Hong Kong, I was fortunate enough to be exposed to different cultures. My passion for travelling and exploring the world has led me to over 25 countries and 50 cities so far.
Out of all the places I’ve visited, Adelaide really stands out to me as my ideal study destination. It’s a city that's carefully designed and planned, which makes it so easy to get around without the stress of traffic.
I also love the climate, there’s so much sunshine in Adelaide! The weather makes such a difference, and I have noticed it lifts my mood.
While Adelaide isn’t as fast-paced as some other cities, that’s exactly what I enjoy about it. I feel it has a balanced lifestyle, and it gives me more time to slow down, explore new things, and do what I love. Whether that’s discovering wines, spending time outdoors, or just enjoying the little things in my life in Adelaide. 
How did you select your course and institution?
After my heart led me to choose Adelaide as my study destination, I began researching programs and institutions. That’s when I discovered that Adelaide is one of the eleven Great Wine Capitals of the world. Wine is not only a major industry here but also a deep part of the city's cultural heritage, something Adelaide continues to take great pride in.
With a background in Economics, I decided to pursue a wine-related degree: the Master of Wine Business. Although I had also received an offer from the Law Department of Peking University, one of China’s top institutions, I ultimately chose Adelaide.
I felt that this path aligned more closely with who I am and the life I aspire to build. I believe that long-term goals should be a key consideration when choosing a university and study program.
If you were to take a friend on a day trip around Adelaide, where would you take them and why?
Every moment I spend in Adelaide feels like home.
One of the first places I plan to take my friends is McLaren Vale. This region offers a rich diversity of grape varieties, including many emerging ones from Italy and Spain. Whether you're new to wine or a seasoned connoisseur, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
What are your future aspirations?
I plan to continue working at the National Wine Centre after graduation, but eventually, I hope to move into the business and marketing side of the industry. My goal is to help South Australian wineries expand their presence globally, because I truly believe the wine we produce here deserves far more recognition on the world stage.
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