Kayla Zhang

Why did you decide to do a MA in EAAS?

I decided to pursue an MA in EAAS because of my strong interest in Chinese and Japanese film and culture. I’ve always been drawn to how stories, especially in film, reflect broader social and historical contexts. EAAS gave me the opportunity to explore these connections in a more structured and academic way.

Are there any EAAS-related courses or events that have been particularly memorable?

Two experiences were especially memorable for me.

One was Professor Sheehan’s Chinese Economic History seminar. It was a small class with only four students, and we met for three hours each week. The workload was intense. We read one book every week, and everyone had to actively participate. I used to be quite quiet in class, but this course really pushed me to speak more and think critically.

The other was taking classes with Professor Rosen, including Soft Power and Film & Politics. Every class with him felt valuable. He is incredibly caring, responsible, and deeply knowledgeable about China. Meeting him has been one of the luckiest parts of my time at USC, and it’s a bit sad to see him retiring.

Can you tell us about your research focus or current work?

My research focuses on contemporary Chinese animation, ideology, and the relationship between mythology and soft power. I’m currently working on a chapter about Kung Fu Panda with Professor Rosen, which will be published with Bloomsbury.

Outside of academic work, I’ve also been writing a long-form campus novel :), exploring storytelling in a more creative format.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Take full advantage of your time in class. The EAAS program offers small, discussion-based courses and many opportunities to interact closely with professors.

I would also encourage students to connect more with Grace and their peers. I was a bit shy and didn’t always take the initiative, which I now regret. There’s a lot you can learn from the people around you.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to continue working in film, with a focus on screenwriting. In the future, once I gain more experience, I would also like to try directing. Right now, I feel more confident focusing on writing longer scripts before moving into production.