Recent Alum Named Schwarzman Scholar for Graduate Study in China

Qingyan (Elaine) Zhang has been named a Schwarzman Scholar, a program that funds one year of graduate study in Beijing.  Schwarzman Scholars are selected based on leadership potential and entrepreneurial spirit, among
other criteria.

From an initial pool of just over 5,800 applicants, Zhang is among the approximately 150 Scholars chosen from around the world. She will develop international leadership skills through the fully funded one-year master’s degree program in global affairs, designed to enable future leaders of the 21st century to engage with China. 

Scholars are selected based on leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, and a curiosity and interest in understanding other cultures and living in China. 

Originally from Hangzhou, China, Qingyan (Elaine) Zhang double majored in Public Policy and Mathematics. While at Duke, she served as President of the Public Policy Majors’ Union, the Executive Print Editor of the Duke Undergraduate Law Review, a Resident Assistant for first- year students, and a Teaching Assistant in the Chinese Program. 

Through her internship at a global NGO, Zhang produced a comprehensive mapping of Asian data sandboxes, platforms that allow innovators to test emerging technologies before releasing them for wide distribution. Upon completing her degree at Tsinghua University, Zhang plans to continue contributing to the research and decision making involved in governing and regulating international data. Zhang aspires to promote and advance ethical and responsible global data networks. 

Launched in 2016, the Schwarzman Scholars program seeks to bring young leaders from around the world to learn from and study in China. Scholars engage with China by attending lectures, traveling, immersing in the culture, and exploring their area of academic focus. 

To receive support in applying for opportunities like the Schwarzman Scholarship, interested Duke students and recent alumni should contact the Nationally Competitive Scholarships advisors in the Office of University Scholars and Fellows.