Indy Dirksen at Fudan University
In a Chinese Economy class at Fudan University, Indy Dirksen — a dual-master’s student in the EMA Finance program with the University of Groningen, known on campus by her Chinese name SUO Wanqing (锁婉清) — raises her hand, her eyes focused and curious.
“Professor, with many countries experiencing cuts in traditional development aid, how does the Belt and Road Initiative offer an alternative model for financing development?” she asked.
Her questions are clear and well-prepared, shaped by the direct, analytical style of Dutch education and driven by a growing interest in China’s development.
A Friendship That Led Her Across Continents
Indy’s connection with China began during her studies at the University of Groningen, where she met JoJo, a Chinese classmate who soon became one of her closest friends. They studied together, worked as teaching assistants, and supported each other through demanding coursework.
“Indy worked very hard,” JoJo said. “We really encouraged each other.”
Through this friendship, China became familiar to Indy in small but meaningful ways — home-cooked meals, stories about family traditions, and everyday conversations that revealed how differently the world could be seen. “That’s how I first understood Chinese culture in a real, everyday way,” she said.
Indy with her Chinese friend JoJo travelling together
As her academic interests moved toward international finance and diplomacy, these personal encounters made her increasingly curious about China’s economic system. Eventually, the blend of scholarly interest and a friendship that offered a window into Chinese life led her to pursue a second master’s degree in China.
Learning in Two Worlds: Academic Growth at Fudan
At Fudan, Indy found an academic environment that complemented the foundation she had built in the Netherlands. The EMA Finance Program — an English-taught dual-degree track focusing on China’s economy and financial system — exposed her to courses such as “Chinese Economy”, “China’s Social Security System and its Reform”, and “Investments”, as well as opportunities to observe China’s financial sector firsthand.
She soon noticed clear differences between the Dutch and Chinese teaching styles. Dutch classrooms encourage constant debate, while Chinese courses are more structured. “Students here work very hard,” she said. “The atmosphere keeps me disciplined, and pushes me to challenge myself.”
Indy at her undergraduate graduation ceremony at the University of Groningen
Her “Chinese Economy” course, taught by Professor LI Dan, became a particular highlight. Indy often stayed after class to discuss China’s foreign policy and international behavior. “Indy is very active in class,” Li said. “She is eager to learn and wants to understand China more deeply.”
These courses helped Indy see policy not as abstract theory but as lived reality. Another course — “China’s Social Security System and Reform” — opened new academic territory and later shaped her research on the international currency hierarchy and China’s rising position within it.
Finding Her Rhythm in Shanghai
Shanghai’s energy suits Indy well. She enjoys long walks through its cafés, small bookstores, and tree-lined streets. “I love how walkable Shanghai is,” she said.
On campus, volleyball has become her bridge to meeting Chinese classmates. “There is no language barrier when playing sports.,” she said. “It’s easy to connect on the court.”
Outside class, she draws manga — a hobby linked to her earlier exchange in Japan — and takes photographs around the city. These quiet moments help her slow down. “This year is about being present and enjoying life a little more before my working career begins.”
A Photograph taken by Indy
Her classmates say that Indy blends into campus life with ease. “Curiosity is what makes Indy stand out,” said her classmate Francesca. “She’s always interested in other people’s stories. Conversations with her often open new perspectives for all of us.”
Looking Ahead: A Bridge Between China and the World
Indy’s Chinese name, SUO Wanqing, carries both cultural and personal meaning. “Wan” (婉) suggests grace, and “Qing” (清) implies clarity and sound judgment — qualities that echo the way she carries herself: open, sincere, and grounded in her principles. “Suo” (锁), drawn from her mother and grandparents’ Dutch surname “Slot”, symbolizes her roots and, in Chinese, can also suggest linking or fastening — much like a bridge.
As Indy plans her future, the metaphor feels fitting. Her long-term goal is to serve in the realm of international affairs as a diplomat, and contribute to international cooperation. Before that, she hopes to gain experience in the financial sector, believing that understanding private markets will make her a more informed policymaker.
Indy deliverd a speech at the School of Economics’ 40th anniversary ceremony
“I like connecting,” she said. “By going out into the world and meeting people with different backgrounds, we not only challenge our own biases—we make what once was unfamiliar, familiar. ” Indy hopes to use her time in China to strengthen trust between China, the Netherlands, and the wider world.
(END)
Writer: LI Wenyi, FANG Qiang
Editor: WANG Mengqi, LI Yijie
