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There are always opportunities if you stay persistent and keep doing what you genuinely love.
Yuhuan Zhang, Duke in NY - Creative Industries (Fall 2025)
What was your favorite excursion that you went on?
All the performances we saw were fantastic, but nothing is more memorable than the food tour we went on around Jackson Heights in Queens. That is an area inhabited mostly by South Asian people, and the restaurants include Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian cuisine. We tried authentic local food in five different places, some in restaurants and others at street food trucks.
We first complained about how far this place is, but we were soon blown away by the exciting foods and the unique culture. If it were not for this tour, I probably would never have come to this area. But it made me realize that this place embodies the inclusive spirit of New York and is an essential stop for anyone who truly wants to understand the city.
What was your favorite place in New York?
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My favorite place in New York is probably MoMA, the Museum of Modern Art. I went there more than five times during this semester, sometimes with my friends, DiNY cohort but mostly on my own.
Modern and contemporary art is my favorite art period and there is always something exciting exhibited in the MoMA: Nakagin Capsule Tower, Ruth Asawa and Wifredo Lam’s retrospective. Even the permanent collection feels familiar and captivating to me. Every time I go to MoMA, I find pieces that match how I’m feeling in the moment and recharge me.
This is us watching the play Oedipus on Broadway.
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The class was touring the New York Public Library of the Performing Arts and saw photos of early play productions.
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Visiting and learning about artist books at the Printed Matter
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Visiting the Miguel Abreu Gallery and saw Jean-Luc Moulène’s fifth one-person exhibition at the gallery.
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Taking an acting workshop taught by Martavius Parrish, an Duke Alum ('14) in the Lincoln Center.
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Why did you decide to do this program?
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As an art history student and visual artist, New York is a dream place for me to live. I’ve always wanted to be part of the art world and experience it firsthand, rather than only learning about it through lectures.
This program combines lectures, excursions, and an internship, creating an immersive semester I would never have in Durham. I also see it as a great springboard for thinking about my future career and learning more about the industries I hope to work in.
What is your greatest takeaway from this program?
My biggest takeaway from this program is about career development and the importance of staying true to what you love while keeping a curious mind. The world is changing so fast, and new opportunities keep emerging, many of which you would never think of because they are beyond what you can picture at this moment.
I realized how important it is to connect with people who are deeply involved in an industry, because you can always learn exciting news and valuable experience from them. There are always opportunities if you stay persistent and keep doing what you genuinely love. During my semester in New York, I felt encouraged by everyone I met in the creative industries. New York brings together people who love art and believe that the dynamic here can make dreams come true.
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What advice do you have for other students considering this program?
Too many things happen every day in New York, and you might want to catch everything. But that is not possible. Get used to the feeling of being overwhelmed and try to see the bright side of it. Follow your gut and show up where you feel you belong the most. Once you get used to the New York vibe, I am sure you will fall in love with this city and find your people and community here.