Yinglun An's Master’s Journey in Marketing and Digital Communications at Queen Mary
From China’s media industry to a Master’s at Queen Mary, Yinglun An shares how life in London and a scholarship shaped his journey.
My name is Yinglun An - but most people know me as Allen. I’m currently studying for a Master’s degree in Marketing and Digital Communications at Queen Mary University of London. Before joining Queen Mary, I worked in China for ten years as a presenter and media professional.
My journey here began in the summer of 2024, when I was awarded the Global Talent Scholarship. That recognition played a big role in my decision to come to London. Now, after a full year of study and life in here, I feel truly grateful for the choice I made. The growth I've experienced - both personally and academically- has gone far beyond what I expected.
This is thanks not only to the openness and diversity of London, but also to the supportive and inclusive environment at Queen Mary. The campus feels safe and welcoming. The course content is practical and forward-thinking. And the teachers and classmates I’ve met here have been both professional and kind.
I still remember arriving in London last August. Back then, I struggled to adapt to an English-speaking environment. Even a simple “How are you?” from a stranger could leave me unsure how to respond. Today, I find myself chatting with classmates in the hallway for ten minutes at a time.
In the beginning, I couldn’t follow lectures clearly, so I always sat in the front row. I looked up every word on the slides before class just to keep up. Slowly, I gained confidence. By the end of the first semester, I was joining class discussions and even received a distinction. I never imagined that kind of change was possible, and I’m thankful that Queen Mary gave me the space to grow into it.
There are two places on campus that I’ve come to love. One is the Mile End Library. Open 24 hours, it has become my second home. I’ve spent more than 500 hours there, drawn by the bright, modern, and safe space it offers, no matter the time of day. Like soil to a growing seed, it gave me what I needed to focus and thrive.
The other is the canalside. When I feel stressed, I sit by the water and breathe. The blue sky, the plants, the cats and the swans - it’s my personal recharge station. Sometimes I bring my lunch or even study there. Without a doubt it has the best view on campus.
Yinglun An
MSc Marketing and Digital Communications Student
Queen Mary University of London
Inspired by Yinglun An's story? Explore the MSc Marketing and Digital Communications programme and discover how Queen Mary University of London can help you unlock your potential in a the marketing world.