Annie Xu, MPhil Art 2019

Full Name: Annie Xu
Graduation Year: 2019
Course Studied: MPhil/PhD Art and Design
Nationality: China
Job Title: HR Manager
Employer/Organisation Name: British Steel
How did your time at the University of Lincoln support your career?: I started working in 1999. The PhD research journey at the University of Lincoln is the most significant period of my life. The career support from my journey’s experience is not from art practice but from the accumulated understanding of philosophy, the knowledge of multiple disciplines, and the capability I gained from the practice-led research methodology. When you reach the level of a Doctor of Philosophy, you will find that many disciplines of knowledge are connected, transferable and understandable. That level of understanding will help you identify the root cause of a problem in your work and rapidly understand and grasp key instructions from top leadership, ensuring your implementation and delivery of work are always in the correct direction.
What are the best parts of your job?: To be an HR professional, it is essential to have core knowledge and specialist knowledge in human resource theories and academic research methodologies that are principles-led, evidence-based, and outcomes-driven. I am pleased that my knowledge and experience can help this multicultural business.
If you could give our current students any top tip for after graduation and their careers, what would it be?: Always learn and embrace change. Never measure the value of your degree by the tuition fee or compare it with your salary, because the knowledge and wisdom you gain from your studies are not commodities. Knowledge empowers you to become a stronger person, not physically but mentally.
Were you an international student?: Yes
Why did you choose to study in the UK?: From my perspective, the UK has the best research environment for contemporary art.
What inspired you to study at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)?: The University of Lincoln and the university where I worked had an educational collaboration at that time.
What was your favourite thing about being a student at the University of Lincoln (or one of its predecessor institutions)?: The people. I am always thankful for and appreciate the guidance from my supervisors and the help from the staff.