Time flies -- in the blink of an eye, three years at Xiamen University have been etched into the album of memories. Another cohort of IFAS students is about to leave the campus and embark on a new journey. The memories of the past three years have shaped who they are today, and the passing on of knowledge and experience has forged new bonds. On the afternoon of May 23, 2025, the Student Union of the Institute of Financial and Accounting Studies hosted the 2025 Graduates' Experience Sharing Session. At the event, graduating student representatives shared valuable insights on job hunting, providing inspiration for their juniors' career planning. 

The session was chaired by student Wu Donghong, and guest speakers were Wang Yuqi and Chen Junjie. The two speakers elaborated in detail on their job-search plans and related preparations, enthusiastically sharing practical experiences and insights, and answered many questions from the jeniors in detail.

Figure 1: Student Wang Yuqi Shared Her Experiences

First to share was Wang Yuqi, who will soon begin as a management trainee at a bank. She opened by explaining how to craft an outstanding resume that matches different job profiles and highlights personal strengths. She advised students not to rely mechanically on resume templates but to reorganize their experiences along clear logical lines—for example, by incorporating reflections and key takeaways from internships to emphasize relevant and effective information. 

Wang then discussed the interview stage in depth. She emphasized the importance of identifying one’s strengths and actively showcasing one’s distinctiveness in interviews to avoid blending into the crowd. She recommended casting a wide net when submitting applications (applying broadly) and, once invited to interviews, seizing every opportunity — early on, attending many interviews is a good way to accumulate experience. 

Regarding positions in broadly institutionalized sectors (e.g., public institutions and state-related organizations), she advised the need to stay informed about current trends and develop well-reasoned perspectives, using solid evidence to support one’s views during interviews. In response to questions from younger students, Wang reiterated the importance of polishing resumes and practicing interview techniques,and she advised starting the application process early and being thoroughly prepared for the job search.

Figure 2: Student Chen Junjie Shared His Experiences

Next, Chen Junjie, who has secured a civil service position in Shanghai - shared his experience. Focusing on public sector-oriented career paths, Chen advised younger students to explore other employment opportunities while preparing for civil service exams and tailor resume submissions based on personal interests. 

Regarding the civil service examination, he emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the eligibility requirements and exam schedules. He encouraged students to gain experience and build resilience by participating in multiple exams. For exam preparation, Chen recommended forming a personal thinking framework and theoretical system, cultivating problem-solving skills through practice, and staying updated with current trends, and illustrated this approach with a practical example. He also noted that preparing for civil service exams can be helpful for bank written tests because of considerable overlap in topics; for hot issues such as digital finance, students can consult official media and develop their own informed views. In response to queries about internships, Chen advised choosing internships aligned with one’s interests to explore suitable industries and roles.

The graduate speakers generously shared their knowledge, and provide clear guidance to their juniors, and in the process, deep bonds of friendship were formed. The experience-sharing session concluded amid warm applause, and  students gathered for a group photo to commemorate this memorable afternoon.

Another cohort of IFAS graduates is about to embark on a new journey. The fruits of their hard work and effort over the past three years were generously shared with their younger students. Witnessing their determined steps and bright futures, we feel deeply inspired. The banner of responsibility and hope has now been passed to us, bearing their expectations and blessings. No matter how stormy the road ahead may be, we will keep that banner flying proudly in the wind.

Text: Yi Ru

Pictures: Ji Yilin