Shuheng Yu, a doctoral student at the School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, was a visiting scholar at the Columbia School of Social Work and the Columbia China Center for Social Policy from April to October 2024. In a recent written interview, she shared her background, research interests, and her experience at Columbia University.
Shuheng Yu, a doctoral student at the School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, was a visiting scholar at the Columbia School of Social Work and the Columbia China Center for Social Policy from April to October 2024. In a recent written interview, she shared her background, research interests, and her experience at Columbia University.
What led you to your career as an academic and researcher?
Recognizing the importance of social issues, combined with the guidance and encouragement from professors, was pivotal in shaping my academic path. I was fortunate to participate in several academic activities during undergraduate studies. One such opportunity was the National Simulated Collective Bargaining Competition, which deepened my understanding of the realities faced by workers and the obstacles in labor protection, sparking my interest in studying the social security system. My internship at the local Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security enabled me to engage with real-world cases, making me realize that social security policies can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and their families.
What convinced me that I could contribute to this field was the continuous encouragement and mentorship from my professors. My journey began when our department chair shared a collection of academic papers with me. My labor economics professor also encouraged me to write and submit academic papers for publication. Although publishing was a significant challenge, the feedback I received was invaluable. Most importantly, my mentor, Professor Li Shi, with his exceptional expertise and unique insights, helped me grasp deeper insights into the discipline, moving beyond intuition and surface-level understanding. His wisdom, patience, and meticulous guidance gave me the courage to persevere, especially during moments of doubt.
What are your main research areas and interests?
My research focuses on income distribution, social medical insurance, and population health. Health, as a key component of human capital, not only influences an individual’s productivity in the labor market but also impacts overall societal productivity. Conversely, income is a significant determinant of improved health outcomes. The close interplay between health and income makes disadvantaged groups particularly vulnerable; they can easily fall into an "illness-poverty trap" when faced with income or health shocks, making escape from this cycle difficult. The social medical insurance system acts as a protective factor by mitigating the economic risks associated with illness. Evaluating the effectiveness of medical insurance policies and exploring ways to decouple the relationship between health and income are crucial for enhancing societal equity.
Can you briefly introduce your home institution?
Zhejiang University, located in Hangzhou City, is one of China’s most historic institutions. With over 127 years of development. It has evolved into a comprehensive university, encompassing 7 campuses and 40 schools. Adhering to the principle of “Pursuing Essence and Innovation (求是创新),” Zhejiang University has fostered a cadre of distinguished scholars who have made significant contributions to societal development. The university's research spans a diverse array of fields, including industry, military, business, culture, and policymaking. Professor Kezhen Zhu, a renowned geologist and meteorologist and one of former presidents of Zhejiang University, posed two important questions: What are you studying at Zhejiang University for, and What kind of person do you aspire to be after graduation? These questions continuously remind us to clarify our goals, value our time, and commit ourselves to contributing to societal progress.
What aspects of being a visiting scholar at Columbia were exciting to you?
I was excited about the diverse culture and cutting-edge disciplines at Columbia. The opportunity to deeply explore the principles and implementation of the U.S. social security system significantly enriched my knowledge in this area. Columbia's focus on Chinese issues and its nuanced understanding of them allowed me to broaden my perspective and deepen my knowledge.
Beyond the academic aspects, I was deeply touched by the friendliness and enthusiasm of the scholars and fellow students. Their support helped me acclimate to both the university and the community, easing my transition into this new environment. Additionally, the vibrant cultural and entertainment activities in New York City, such as film festivals and other public events, added a dynamic and lively element to my overall visiting experience.
What were your main research activities during your stay at Columbia and in NYC?
During my time at Columbia University and in New York City, my main research activities included auditing classes and participating in lectures and seminars. In the summer term course on Resilience Aging, I explored the concept of resilience aging and strategies to promote it. The class discussions deepened my understanding of the aging process and the challenges faced by older adults, emphasizing the importance of societal and community support. An interview draft by a classmate, which detailed how an older adult woman overcame mental and physical health issues, offered valuable insights into the lived experiences of older adults.
Additionally, attending lectures and engaging with the City’s vibrant social scene enriched my learning experience. For instance, a lecture organized by the Asia Society expanded my understanding of how increasing awareness about other countries can enhance international dialogue and promote information exchange. Moreover, free English classes offered by the NYC public library showcased the inclusivity and friendliness of the City's programming, enriching my overall experience.