From Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) to master’s offers from both the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, Liu Yaojia has just built her path step by step.

Liu Yaojia

Class of 2026, Department of Statistics and Data Science

Offer: MSc in Statistical Science, University of Oxford;
MPhil in Population Health Science, University of Cambridge

For her coursework, she reviewed materials page by page after class, carefully noting key concepts. In group projects, she took the initiative to lead, coordinating teammates and refining details. In research, she immersed herself in literature, coding, and problem-solving.

Liu studies with the help of artificial intelligence

“Most nights during my four years were spent in the computer lab,” she recalled.

Her approach was simple but powerful: By focusing on each task with patience and consistency, she transformed anxiety into a sense of progress, and eventually, into tangible results.

Liu wins the provincial second prize with teammates in CUMCM-2024 (Contemporary Undergraduate Mathematical Contest in Modeling)

One of her academic highlights came in her second year, when she joined Dr Ma Chuoxin’s research group. There, she worked on a project exploring the relationship between dyslexia and different brain regions. Unlike typical coursework, this research involved complex three-dimensional brain imaging data, requiring her to extend statistical models and develop new methods.

Liu with Dr Ma Chuoxin

It took nearly a year to complete, and the experience gave her a deeper understanding of biostatistics and the full research process.

Beyond research, BNBU’s diverse curriculum enabled her to explore multiple fields, including deep learning, actuarial science, and survival analysis. Through these experiences, she gradually identified her true interest: biostatistics and data science.

For Liu, what makes statistics exciting is its real-world impact. In a national mathematical modelling competition, she and her team designed an optimal crop-planting strategy for a village. “When we got the result, it felt amazing,” she said. “Using what we learned to solve real problems, that’s really cool.”

Equally important was the support she received from peers, including Luo Jieping, a senior BNBU student who also received offers from Oxford and Cambridge. Inspired by senior students who guided her through coursework and postgraduate applications, Liu now continues that tradition: mentoring juniors and sharing her experience.

Liu with Luo Jieping

Liu with junior BNBU students

“If you’re unsure what you like, try more,” she advised. “Take different classes, talk to professors, explore research and internships, and start early.”

Now, as she prepares for her next chapter, Liu carries with her the belief that first took root years ago: I can do it.

From MPRO

Reporter: Cecilia Yu

Photos by Cecilia Yu and the interviewee