Yan Zhanyu studied at LUISS during the 2016-2017 academic year with the Double Degree with China Foreign Affairs University.
He obtained a master’s degree in International Relations with a major in Global Studies, receiving merit for his thesis entitled Comparison of Structuralism and Reductionism under Counterfactual Interference: Case Study of Appeasement in 1919-1938.
Yan had always wanted to study in Europe, and Italy was his first choice. It was important for him to analyze international relations from a different perspective than that offered at his university, and the reputation of LUISS programs helped him choose the CFAU-LUISS Double Degree.
During his year in Italy, Zhanyu had the chance to meet people from different cultural backgrounds which helped him grow on a personal level. “The experience was quite satisfying and getting accustomed to life in Rome was not difficult, especially thanks to the University’s Saturday Italian language course for foreign students.”
Zhanyu has completed his studies at CFAU and has been offered the chance to earn a Ph.D. from several universities. “Once I went back to China I send out applications to continue my studies and I was accepted by several universities. I can definitely say that the LUISS Double Degree enhanced my CV.” Also essential to Zhanyu’s success was the University’s faculty and Professor Raffaele Marchetti in particular. Every two weeks he organized a meeting with me and gave me advice, even on everyday issues. He taught me so much, and not only academically. In general, I found that the teachers I met were creative and stimulating.
Starting in September, Zhanyu will study at Peking University for a Ph.D. in International Relations.