A bird's-eye view of the University of Bridgeport. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

When it comes to choosing a school, how should students balance the school's overall ranking and their own interests and needs?

If you go to the big name schools only because of the name, it does not mean that you will get the best education. In fact, if it doesn't suit your interest, the school's reputation might not be your strongest advantage. You must do enough research to find the school that fits you the best. If you find the right fit, you can be extremely successful.

How have the students' expectations changed in the past decade?

I think it has something to do with the changing role of China in the world. Compared to 10 years ago, many Chinese students would come with their families with the hope they would eventually stay in the US. Now, I see clearly that they absolutely intend to come back to and become the leaders in China. They may want to have a little international experience at first, but all for the purpose of building China.

The other one is that I think they are having a much more detailed focus in their education. As opposed to just studying something, they are often very clear, and increasingly clear, of the impact of their choices.