"PEI has given me so much, I’d love to give something back."
What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?
I'm originally from Northwest China, and I’ve always been fascinated by islands—they’re everywhere, each one different, surrounded by so many intriguing stories and myths. It’s not about seeing them as exotic or unusual, but just a pure, childlike curiosity. The Master of Arts in Island Studies program at UPEI is one of only three in the world, and what excites me most is its focus on International Relations and Public Policy. The tuition is also affordable, which is a big relief for an international student like me. Plus, PEI’s summers are beautiful, and that adds to the charm.
What do you find unique and interesting about the MAIS program?
What I find most unique about the program is its comprehensive approach, which includes three main areas: International Relations and Public Policy; Tourism; and Community Sustainability. These areas aren’t studied in isolation—they’re all interconnected, which makes the program both broad and deeply engaging. For me, the most exciting part is the focus on International Relations and Public Policy. I’ve always been curious about how islands manage their relationships with the wider world while dealing with their own policy challenges. The MAIS program allows me to explore these questions in depth and understand how island governance operates on both a local and global scale.
That said, I also find the focus on tourism and sustainability incredibly valuable. Tourism is such a central part of life for many islands, and sustainability is about ensuring these communities can thrive while protecting what makes them unique. Learning about these topics has broadened my perspective and helped me see how everything ties together.
This balance between exploring my main interests and gaining insights into other important areas is what makes the MAIS program so rewarding. It’s given me the tools to think critically about islands in a way I never could before.
"Living here is different from what I imagined, but in a good way. The slower pace and close-knit community have made it easier to focus on my studies and find a sense of balance in my life."
What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and UPEI faculty members?
I’ve been lucky to receive so much support at UPEI. The MAIS professors have helped me not only with academics but also with scholarships and adapting to life in Canada. The Faculty of Arts, the International Student Office, the library staff, and the residence office have all played a big role in helping me settle in—whether it’s learning about Canadian culture, navigating campus, or just making my living situation more comfortable. Everyone has been welcoming and ready to help, which has made a huge difference for me.
What opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?
Studying at UPEI and living on this island has given me the chance to experience the beauty of the simple moments around me. The campus itself is peaceful, and I often find myself taking walks, reflecting on my studies or just appreciating the calm. There’s something about the quiet here that helps me focus and connect with both my academic work and personal life. The beauty of PEI is in the small details—the way the light filters through the trees in the morning or the soft pink hue of the sky at sunset. These moments remind me to slow down and take in what’s around me, offering a kind of peace that allows for reflection.
Being on this island has also made it easy to engage with the local community. The slower pace means I’ve had more opportunities to meet people and form connections, whether it’s with classmates on campus or with locals around town. At UPEI, it’s not just about academics; it’s about learning to appreciate life at a different pace, finding balance, and connecting with the world in a meaningful way.
What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?
UPEI has a distinct atmosphere that’s both welcoming and familiar. It’s a smaller campus, so it’s easy to connect with people, whether it’s professors, classmates, or staff. That kind of environment makes it feel like a place where everyone knows you and your interests, making it easier to ask for support or advice when needed. As for PEI, its charm lies in its pace. It’s quiet, not as fast-paced as bigger cities, but it’s also not isolated. You get a real sense of community here. The natural beauty of the island—the quiet mornings, sunsets, and the fresh air—help me find time to think, slow down, and reflect. It’s a place that encourages me to appreciate the present and the little things around me, whether I’m walking across campus or just enjoying the view from a quiet corner.
Living here is different from what I imagined, but in a good way. The slower pace and close-knit community have made it easier to focus on my studies and find a sense of balance in my life.
What would you tell a student considering UPEI and the MAIS program?
I’d tell them that if they’re looking for a unique academic experience, this is the place to be. The MAIS program isn’t just about islands—it’s about seeing the world through a different lens and connecting local issues to global challenges. In today’s world, almost everyone feels lonely at some point, like an isolated island. But trust me, studying islands teaches us that being an island and feeling lonely are not the same thing. This program might help you discover a new perspective on life (or islands), one that’s more connected and full of possibilities. On top of that, UPEI offers affordable tuition. It’s a chance to receive high-quality education without the financial strain that often comes with studying abroad. The professors are incredibly supportive, and the small campus size means you get more opportunities to interact with them. If you want a place where you can focus, grow, and enjoy the beauty of a small, welcoming community, UPEI is a good choice.
What are your general plans after graduation?
After I graduate, I hope to stay on PEI and find a job here. I’d like to create a small, cozy space for myself where I can enjoy life and maybe spend some time just watching the sky. More importantly, I want to contribute to the local community in meaningful ways, whether that’s through policy work, community projects, or cultural events. PEI has given me so much, and I’d love to give something back.
Big futures start here!
Read more about the UPEI students and amazing alumni featured in our 2026–2027 Viewbook!
Interested in UPEI? Contact our student advisement team today at apply@upei.ca.
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Meet Hexi Wang, second-year student in the Master of Arts in Island Studies program.
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