Recently, the concept of “Metaverse” has invoked large-scale discussions. Therefore, we are honored to invite our guest, Cindy, who is engaged in the field of meta-universe and has profound insights into psychology.
Fun fact:
The term “Metaverse” originated from the science fiction novel "Snow Crash" in 1992, which depicted a vast virtual reality world. In this world, people use digital avatars to control and compete with each other to improve their status. In today’s definition, Metaverse is a virtual world that uses technology to connect and create, mapping and interacting with the real world, creating a digital living space with a new social system.
Nowadays, the so-called "Metaverse" integrates many existing technologies such as 5G, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and blockchain, creating a completely new networked world.
1. How do you view the relationship between college profession and career?
For most students in China, the choice of college major is often made hurriedly after the college entrance examination, which results in a lack of sufficient understanding of both major and society. Career choices should be made after having a certain cognitive foundation, in line with one's planning. In China however, the major studied in university is not necessarily related to one's career.
For example, I majored in Chinese during college. Some of my classmates later pursued careers closely related to the major, such as working as teachers, while others entered industries like e-commerce, fast-moving consumer goods, and the internet, which are less related to the major.
2. Career choices are often made based on the combination of the major and moderate social practice, which reflects a person's personality and interests. From your perspective, how do you view the relationship between virtual and real?
Virtual and real are actually complementary and mutually promoting. For example, exhibitions can take place not only in physical art galleries but also on Metaverse platforms, reaching more audiences and providing richer interactive experiences. During the pandemic, many stores were closed due to the impact of the virus. However, they could set up brand spaces in the Metaverse and conduct business online.
3. Could you share the most interesting thing you have done using the Metaverse?
There are a few Metaverse spaces that have left a deep impression on me. For example, a group of alumni originally planned to gather at their alma mater this year, but due to the pandemic, the reunion couldn't happen. So, their class president organized a group of students to build an online version of their school in the Metaverse, including scenes from the school campus, library, and student dormitories, recreating their school days. The virtual scene also incorporated many video clips from their past gatherings, such as dinner parties and singing sessions. I was quite moved when I saw it.
Additionally, during the pandemic, my friend's cat passed away. To commemorate her beloved cat, she built a memorial hall in the Metaverse, displaying photos and videos of the cat. When she misses her cat, she goes there to see or continue decorating the space, easing her loneliness.
4. I noticed that you have a wide range of interests. What prompted you to explore such various topics?
I was a well-balanced student in high school, excelling in both arts and sciences. I always felt that each subject had its charm. Later in university, I studied English, Chinese, and Korean, and I also paid attention to many things beyond my major. During my university days, I interned at Knowyourself, where I was exposed to psychology, which I found fascinating. I have also worked as a translator at various international exhibitions, and my job required me to interact with companies from different industries, which exposed me to many novel things. Perhaps it's my strong curiosity about the world and people that drives me to explore diverse topics.
5. As an enthusiast of art, variety shows, and movies, what type of art do you enjoy, and why?
To be honest, I don't remember the names of art genres or artists very well. I tend to focus on the emotional resonance I experience with a piece of art in the present moment and space. Therefore, I prefer art forms that involve more interactivity, where the audience's actions become a part of the artwork. Works completed collaboratively by artists and the audience leave imprints on my viewing and participation, which I find enchanting and fascinating.
6. Could you recommend some variety shows or movies that you particularly like?
Recently, I have been watching "Merry Queer," a South Korean variety show featuring LGBT couples. It depicts the lives of three LGBT couples and sheds light on the prejudices and challenges faced by the LGBT community in South Korea. The show's concept itself touched me deeply. In South Korean society, the LGBT community is not completely accepted, so the show faced many obstacles. The dedication of the production team made me appreciate it even more.
7. Knowing that you have a deep interest in psychology, do you believe that the impact of family on a person can be changed through growth and development later in life?
The experiences a person encounters in their early growth environment inevitably leave some impressions. However, I believe that these early experiences can be adjusted through later growth. First of all, awareness is the first step. Recognizing the impact of early experiences on oneself is the beginning of change. Secondly, based on this awareness, one can consciously sense their state and adjust their behavior. If necessary, seeking help from professionals can also be beneficial.
8. How do you think a person can break out of their comfort zone and continuously grow?
I pay attention to the latest industry reports within my field and spend time learning about concepts and areas I haven't heard of before. If there are opportunities to attend industry forums or community events, I actively participate, meet interesting people, and learn about the latest information. Even if it's in a field beyond my professional expertise, I still explore and expand my knowledge boundaries bit by bit, extending my touch in the world.
Conclusion
Through this interview, we learned about Cindy's wide range of interests and her ever-curious mindset toward exploring new fields. Her thought-provoking ideas cover the intriguing effects of virtual reality, the impact of factors like the original family in psychology, the wonder of arts and films, and the collision of universal ideas.
In this age of fast change, many opportunities loom before us. However, each of us faces countless challenges and unknowns in life. Cindy's profound contemplation and attitude towards life inspire us to actively discover our interests in the unknown, continuously break through our comfort zones, and find our true dreams and passions."
Producer & Interviewer: Isabella Wang
Text: Cindy Huang
Editor: Christine
Formatting: Amy Pan
Translator: Max Huang
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