Notre Dame China alumni launched first event of Career Development Series in collaboration with Notre Dame Beijing
This summer, Notre Dame alumni successfully hosted the first event of their new Career Development Series—a law lecture at the Notre Dame Beijing office. The program was initiated by the Notre Dame Club of China with joint support from the clubs in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, in collaboration with Notre Dame Beijing. The main session was held at the Notre Dame Beijing office, with an in-person sub-venue in Shanghai and global alumni joining virtually. Two distinguished law school alumni, Mr. Zhidong Wang from the US and Mr. Jing He from Beijing, served as keynote speakers. Their participation marked a meaningful start to the series, which aims to connect alumni across regions and provide career guidance for the next generation.
The event was initiated and hosted by Vivian Peiqian Qian (LL.M. ’17, Law School), a member of the ND Club of China-Shanghai. “I experienced countless kindnesses at Notre Dame, and I hope to continue passing them on,” she shared. Vivian recalled how, when she applied for graduate school, her American supervisor firmly recommended Notre Dame: “It has to be Notre Dame! The alumni network is incredible.” During her studies, she experienced the warmth and generosity of the Notre Dame family first-hand—from resume reviews and job referrals by senior alumni, to being welcomed into alumni homes during holidays. Inspired by these experiences, Vivian has made it her mission to strengthen the alumni network in China. She explained, “During the Greater China Scholarship Ceremony and alumni gathering at Notre Dame Beijing in March, many alumni shared that amid global uncertainties, young graduates especially need career guidance. Alumni quickly mobilized resources across regions, and this first career lecture was the result. We hope this becomes a high-quality beginning that will bring alumni across Greater China closer together.”
At the opening of the session, Jingyu Wang, executive director of Notre Dame Beijing, shared updates from the University. She noted that in 2024, President Rev. Robert A. Dow announced the launch of a global need-blind admissions policy, providing equitable financial aid opportunities to international undergraduates. Over the next decade, Notre Dame aims to increase the percentage of international students from 7% to over 12%. She also highlighted the University’s three new strategic research priorities—climate change and environmental protection, global health and human well-being, and data and computational science—inviting alumni in China to participate in these global collaborations.
Dr. Jing He (Ph.D. ’05, Electrical Engineering), chair of the ND Club of China-Beijing, also spoke at the event. She shared her journey from pursuing her doctorate in 2000, to entrepreneurship and investment in China, to now leading the Beijing club. “In today’s fractured global landscape, with AI and technology reshaping society, many young alumni face confusion about their career paths. The spirit of 'For the Common Good' at Notre Dame is more valuable than ever,” she said. “Like Vivian, I hope to pass on the warmth Notre Dame gave us. In the future, our career lectures will expand beyond law to other industries. Every member of the Notre Dame family—whether alumni, students, or parents—is on a lifelong journey of growth.”
The event also featured a video greeting from G. Marcus Cole, dean of the Notre Dame Law School, who encouraged alumni to live out the motto “Be a Different Lawyer” by engaging deeply with their communities, serving society, and offering pro bono legal services to advance justice and social progress. He also emphasized the Law School’s strong commitment to diversity and warmly welcomed applicants from around the globe.
"In today’s fractured global landscape, with AI and technology reshaping society, many young alumni face confusion about their career paths. The spirit of 'For the Common Good' at Notre Dame is more valuable than ever." —Dr. Jing He, Ph.D. ’05
Attorney Zhidong Wang (J.D. ’94), founder and partner of Z Wang & Associates, reflected on his connection with Notre Dame. After earning his J.D., he served as a board member of the Notre Dame Law Association for two decades and is licensed to practice in Illinois and multiple federal courts. He recalled, “When I applied to law school in the 1990s, I had no legal background, but Notre Dame took a chance on me and awarded me a generous scholarship. Even if I could choose again, Notre Dame would still be my first choice. My alma mater is inseparable from my life.” Vivian added that Attorney Wang remains actively engaged with students, often visiting campus to share career advice. His law firm now also includes young lawyers from Notre Dame.
Attorney Jing He (J.D. ’00), managing partner at GEN Law Firm, has led major cross-border intellectual property disputes and is recognized for combining legal expertise with strategic consulting. He recalled the early days of Chinese students at Notre Dame: “In the 1990s, studying abroad was not easy for Chinese students. Notre Dame gave us warm and solid support. Because of that, whenever Notre Dame needs me, I will always be ready.” His firm regularly offers internships for Notre Dame Law School students, strengthening ties between China and the US.
During the Q&A, alumni raised questions on topics such as differences between practicing law in the US and China, strategies to overcome career burnout, the impact of AI on the legal profession, and qualities law firms value most in new hires. The discussion was so lively that it extended half an hour beyond schedule.
"The event demonstrated the power of the Notre Dame network. Accomplished alumni shared their experience and inspired students and alumni with their insights. It's a great example of how Notre Dame alumni are a 'Force for Good' and are supporting each other on their individual journeys!" said Lea Barthuly, international program director of the Notre Dame Alumni Association.
The Beijing on-site session welcomed about 60 attendees, including alumni, undergraduates, new students, transfer students, and parents. Participants traveled from across China as well as from the US, Malaysia, and Singapore. Following the lecture, the event hosted a luncheon to welcome incoming undergraduates and their families. Mr. Xiangdong Zhang, Chair of the Beijing Parents Committee; Vice Chair Richard Zhang; and Associate Professor Nicholas Teh of Notre Dame’s Philosophy Department shared insights on study and life at Notre Dame. Professor Teh, together with 13 students participating in a joint program with Peking University, also provided advice for students preparing to study in the US.
As Betty Caiqi Qi, Chair of the ND Club of China-Shenzhen, noted, “We hope to use this event as a starting point to continue building more career-themed activities, bringing together alumni from diverse industries and strengthening our network.”
The Career Development Series began with this law lecture, and more industry-focused sessions are planned in the future, further strengthening the bonds of the Notre Dame community across Greater China and beyond.