Cultivating Classroom Engagement
<p>Born and raised in northern China, Bolong Li initially came to the US to pursue a graduate degree. After earning his master’s at NYU Tandon, Li entered the corporate world, establishing working for Apple and Amazon’s Audible. But his passion for teaching ultimately drew him back to the classroom—and NYU School of Professional Studies. </p>
<p>Li’s favorite part of teaching is the classroom discussions and engagement he shares with his students in the <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/executive-masters-in-marketing-and-strategic-communications.html">Executive Master's in Marketing and Strategic Communications</a> program. The learning is often mutual, he notes, stating how much he enjoys listening to his students’ unique perspectives. “Engagement is a two-way street, and we all can take away interesting inspirations from the class,” he emphasizes.</p>
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The market is changing rapidly due to evolving technology and customer behaviors. This requires strong lifelong learning skills. The [Executive Master’s in Marketing and Strategic Communications] is an ideal forum to gain these skills.”
The Critical Role of Real-world Learning
<p>Li is well acquainted with the critical importance of real-world learning, especially at an executive level; he incorporates live discussions, workshops, and projects in each of his classes which reflect this approach. Collaboration is another key component of Li’s classroom: “It's not just about brilliant ideas,” he stresses, “but the actual collaboration and discussion that transform ideas into actions.”</p>
<p>As an instructor, Li’s mission is to prepare his students to be innovators and leaders in today’s rapidly evolving professional arena. “To prepare students for today’s fast-changing landscape, I incorporate practical exercises into every aspect of my class. This equips the class to navigate the dynamic marketing and tech landscape.” In doing so, He cultivates “mindsets for success and growth” amongst his students so that they will be poised for success in their respective workplaces “open to new ideas and dynamics.”</p>