Trulaske alumna joins prestigious program at Chinese university

Madison Plaster, a 2018 Mizzou graduate with degrees in international studies and business administration, joined an elite group of scholars from 40 different countries at Peking University in Beijing as a prestigious Yenching Scholar this fall. Through internships and leadership positions during her time at the Trulaske College of Business, Plaster gained an interest in food security, trade, and China’s Belt and Road Intiative, which seeks to connect more than 60% of the world’s population through infrastructure investment, regulation, and cultural ties.

How did your experience at Trulaske prepare you for this chapter in your life?

“Through Trulaske, I researched Missouri business opportunities in Vietnam and its connection to the rise of China, promoted study abroad programs to China, and designed a mock business proposal for an American store in China. These experiences contributed to my desire to learn about China’s trade and development and apply to the Yenching Academy. My experiences also helped me secure a position as Co-Director of Programming for the Yenching Global Symposium, a 3-day annual conference on China bringing students, professionals, and experts from around the world to Peking University.”

What made you want to apply for the Yenching Scholar? 

”Through internships and leadership positions during college, I gained an interest in food security and trade. I also learned more about China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to connect more than 60% of the world’s population through infrastructure investment, regulation, and cultural ties. I have interest in a career in diplomacy and contributing to discussions on US policy in these areas. As China continues to evolve in economic and political influence, I saw Yenching as a unique opportunity to study China in a dynamic, diverse environment and develop greater insight on the social, cultural, historical, and economic perspectives of China and other countries.” 

What advice would you give to business students at Trulaske?

“If you’re interested in pursuing post-graduate fellowships, find a way to gain leadership experience, explore your professional and personal interests, and meet with the MU Fellowships Office early. “

Story by Seabrook Omura, Trulaske MBA student