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Jinghao's Journey to Studying Supply Management Abroad

Friday, 1 August, 2025

Student Jinghao
Jinghao Chen, Transport City Planning and Environmental Policy graduate from cohort 2021.

In the first three months after graduation, I focused intensely on preparing for the IELTS exam. I knew that improving my English score would open more doors, so I committed myself fully to the process. I also took a training to become a licensed tour guide, a different but rewarding challenge that helped me grow in communication and presentation skills.

In December, I travelled to Xi’an and Hong Kong, reconnecting with friends and revisiting familiar places. As someone from Shaanxi, this trip was both nostalgic and energising. Spending time with my classmates in Hong Kong reminded me of the power of good company and meaningful connections.

During Spring Festival, I spent time with my family and focused on self-improvement. I began teaching myself IT skills, particularly those that would support my future plans to pursue a Master's in Supply Chain Management. 

I also took up an internship at a supply management company, which lasted for a month and a half. It was hands-on and physically demanding, especially when visiting a sausage factory as part of the operations. It wasn’t easy, but it was eye-opening. I even had the chance to explore roles in HR and production systems management, which helped me connect what I’d learned online with real-world practice. Suddenly, everything made sense. 

Now, I’m excited to share that I will begin my Master’s in Supply Chain Management at Coventry University in the UK this September. It’s a one-year course, and I’m ready to make the most of it.

My few words of advice to fellow students?

If you’re planning to study abroad, take your coursework seriously from the very beginning. I didn’t study hard enough during Stage 1 and 2, and only realised in Stage 3 how important those early years are. A strong academic record gives you more options and better chances when applying to top universities.

Also, prepare for your IELTS or TOEFL as early as possible. The earlier you pass, the more time you'll have to focus on research, applications, and internships.

Finally, a word of caution: don’t blindly trust everything that study abroad agencies tell you. Many of them are trying to sell expensive services or courses. Do your own research. Believe in your abilities. You are fully capable of finding and applying to great programmes on your own.

UCD China Joint Colleges Office

Room 504, James Joyce Library Building, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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