Zoey Zhang
About Me
I am a friendly and hardworking postgraduate student from China, currently studying Sociology at the University of Aberdeen. I speak Mandarin and English fluently. I have experience in customer service, volunteering, teaching, and office work. I’ve worked in charity shops, restaurants, and bars, and also helped with local events and research projects.
My professional experience includes a role as a researcher at the Bureau of Statistics in Laifeng, China, where I collected qualitative data on deprived households, gaining insights into the socio-economic challenges they face. Additionally, I interned at the Finance Bureau in Laifeng, focusing on financial documentation and enhancing inter-departmental communication.
Currently, I am volunteering at an Oxfam charity shop in Aberdeen, where I manage stock, enhance customer interactions, and lead fundraising efforts through innovative store displays. This position has enriched my retail and customer service skills and has sparked a stronger passion for societal impact.
I am eager to participate in the Skill Up programme to immerse myself in a specific industry, where I intend to acquire targeted skills that will prepare me for launching my own business. My goal is to combine my academic background and practical experiences to establish a venture that addresses social issues, particularly poverty alleviation and community development.
Outside of my professional and academic life, I am actively involved in the Sociology Society at the University of Aberdeen and have led the Women’s Campus Football Team at Wuhan Textile University, which has strengthened my leadership skills and fostered a robust team-oriented mindset.
I am enthusiastic about the opportunities to learn, grow, and eventually contribute my skills and knowledge towards creating impactful solutions in the community.
Education
University of Aberdeen
I achieved a Master’s degree in Sociology at the University of Aberdeen. My studies are focused on several specialised modules, including sex, gender, violence, where I achieved a grade of A5; advanced qualitative methods in social science, where I earned a B1, peace and conflict studies, where I earned a B1, and advanced social theory, where I achieved a grade of C1. This diverse curriculum is enhancing my understanding and analytical skills in handling complex social issues, equipping me with the knowledge and methodology necessary to contribute effectively to academic and practical discussions on social policy and human rights.
Wuhan Textile University
I earned my Bachelor's degree in International Trade and Economy from Wuhan Textile University in Wuhan, China. During my studies from September 2017 to June 2021, I engaged deeply with a comprehensive curriculum covering Advanced Mathematics, Venture Economics, International Economics, Statistics, International Transportation and Insurance, Accounting Principles, Stock Investment, Cross-Border E-Commerce, and International Commercial Law. I graduated with an overall grade average of 75.47%, which equipped me with a robust understanding of global trade dynamics and economic strategies, laying a strong foundation for my career in international trade and economic analysis.
Work & Experience
Shop Volunteer
OXFAM CHARITY SHOP
Engaged in comprehensive charity shop operations. Tasks include stock management, customer service, and donation processing. Developed and executed engaging window displays and maintained a well-stocked, appealing store environment, driving fundraising efforts. Acquired valuable retail and customer service skills through Oxfam's extensive training programme, requiring no previous experience.
Researcher
BUREAU OF STATISTICS
Gathered qualitative data on deprived households in the local area, interviewing individuals on their employment status, income levels and other related topics. Attended weekly departmental meetings, took minutes, verified contents with manager and distributed them to team. Assisted colleagues from other agencies and departments operating in the location, including with social security and national medical insurance claims.
