The School of Chinese Medicine and Health at Nanfang College, Guangzhou (NCG) held its inaugural alumni sharing forum on 17 October as part of the College's 20th anniversary celebrations. Under the theme “From Campus to Career: Professional Development and Growth in Chinese Medicine and Healthcare”, the event brought together industry professionals and alumni, both online and in person, to explore career opportunities, developments in traditional Chinese medicine and the wider healthcare sector, and the skills needed for professional growth.

Associate Professor Wang Yuping, Executive Vice Dean of the School of Chinese Medicine and Health and President of its Alumni Chapter, attended the event and delivered an address. Reflecting on the School's development since its establishment in 2022, Wang highlighted its commitment to fostering students' character and preparing graduates for careers in traditional Chinese medicine and the wider health sector.

Describing alumni as a valuable part of the School's community and a reflection of its educational achievements, Wang emphasised the role of the Alumni Chapter in connecting graduates, the School and current students. He encouraged students to learn from alumni experiences and broaden their understanding of the industry, while inviting graduates to remain involved in the School's development and contribute to innovation in Chinese medicine and healthcare.

Two industry professionals offered perspectives on emerging opportunities and the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

Luo Xiaoyuan, General Manager of the Healthcare and Elderly Care Division at Pearl River Life Insurance and President of Guangzhou Pearl River Huiren Rehabilitation Hospital, examined the implications of population ageing for the healthcare and elderly care sector. Drawing on data relating to the silver economy, Luo outlined six potential career pathways and encouraged students to obtain relevant professional qualifications early and establish a clear direction for their development.

Chen Yunru, Deputy General Manager of Guangzhou Zihe Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Co., Ltd., emphasised the importance of beginning career planning early. Chen introduced a three-step approach: developing self-awareness through group activities, understanding the industry through research, and identifying one's own professional strengths and characteristics. Students were also encouraged to cultivate ways of thinking that reflect employers' expectations.

The forum also featured three alumni who shared insights from their academic journeys, job searches and professional experiences.

Lin Haozi, a member of the 2022 Health Services and Management cohort who now works on the North American platform of Shenzhen Guida Technology Co., Ltd., spoke on the theme “Your Degree Does Not Define Your Limits”. Drawing on experiences of interdisciplinary learning, academic competitions, job applications and postgraduate entrance examinations, Lin encouraged students to explore opportunities beyond the conventional paths associated with their field of study.

Wang Yanbo, another member of the 2022 Health Services and Management cohort who is now studying at Hangzhou Normal University, reflected on the value of participating in competitions and shared advice on preparing for civil service recruitment examinations and postgraduate entrance examinations.

Zeng Jinan, a member of the 2022 Chinese Materia Medica cohort, drew on experiences of exploring different employment opportunities and successfully completing a probationary period. Zeng offered a practical principle for workplace development: listen and observe more, come prepared with solutions, and avoid empty talk.

The discussions prompted lively exchanges, giving current students opportunities to consider their academic and professional plans in light of industry developments and alumni experiences. Together, the speakers highlighted the diverse career pathways available in traditional Chinese medicine, health services and related industries.

Building on the forum, the School of Chinese Medicine and Health will continue to strengthen its Alumni Chapter as a platform for exchange and collaboration. By drawing on the experience and expertise of its graduates, the School aims to support students in their professional development and contribute to innovation in traditional Chinese medicine and the wider healthcare sector.