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News

Mar 28 2025

BCIS Alumni Story

Andy, a BCIS alumnus from the Class of 2013, can be described like a fine vintage wine—his journey enriched by time, full of depth and character. From his first encounter with philosophy in high school to discovering a passion for wine in Paris, from graduating with honors from Boston College to establishing himself in Beijing’s wine industry, and from a global explorer to a devoted father—his path exemplifies the essence of a BCIS education: to help every student find their own soil, take root, and grow.

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Andy's journey into philosophy began in his junior year at BCIS. Engaging in thought-provoking discussions on existence, consciousness, and reality sparked his intellectual curiosity and a deep desire to seek answers. With this passion, he pursued a degree at Boston College, where he majored in philosophy and political science while minoring in psychoanalysis. Enthralled by ancient Greek and Continental philosophy, he challenged himself with graduate-level courses during his undergraduate years, ultimately earning an honors degree. His academic journey was rigorous, but he thrived in it, forming a lifelong bond with a professor who became not only his mentor but also his guide and friend. Under his mentor’s influence, Andy embraced intellectual challenges and explored diverse fields, gaining profound insights into the world.

However, Andy’s aspirations extended beyond academia. During a year-long exchange program in Paris, he found himself captivated by the city’s charm—its architecture, cuisine, and, most notably, its wine. He became fascinated by the history, identity, and stories encapsulated in each bottle. Philosophy had taught him how to think about the world, but wine allowed him to taste it. In that moment, he discovered his true calling.

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Upon graduating, Andy returned to China to embark on his wine career, turning passion into profession. From wine tasting to production, from trade to cultural appreciation, he applied his philosophical mindset to the study of wine. With meticulous analysis and storytelling, he guided clients in selecting premium wines, sharing the narratives behind each bottle. He also leveraged social media and writing to educate a broader audience about the depth and richness of global wine culture.

Back in Beijing, Andy remained an active member of the BCIS community, frequently attending alumni reunions and community events. Reflecting on his time at BCIS, he often expresses gratitude for the freedom to explore and discover his passion for philosophy. Without BCIS, he might never have uncovered this intellectual pursuit, nor found his true direction in life. The school’s educational philosophy not only fostered his academic exploration and self-motivation but also helped shape his worldview and values.

This habit of critical thinking continues to shape his professional life. His philosophical background gives him a unique perspective on wine—beyond flavors, regions, and production techniques, he delves into the cultural, historical, and human-nature connections within each bottle. As he sips a Burgundy, he often ponders: How does wine shape our understanding of the world and influence our interactions with it?

To Andy, wine is more than a beverage—it is a vessel for culture and philosophy. Just as different schools of thought coexist and intertwine, each wine carries its distinct personality, yet shares commonalities with others. Today, he has gained a strong following on Xiaohongshu, with over 100,000 followers, and has even been invited to Tsinghua University to share his expertise on wine culture with students from various disciplines.

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Despite his thriving career, Andy prioritizes family above all. His philosophical studies have reinforced his belief that family and education are the cornerstones of life. From the moment his daughter was born, he chose to become a full-time father, actively involved in every aspect of her growth. Each morning, he carefully prepares breakfast and cooks meals for his family—not just as a daily routine but as an expression of love and appreciation for life.

This March, Andy’s daughter officially joined BCIS Early Childhood Center as a Pre-K student. The BCIS community is honored to welcome the second-generation Warrior, who will continue to grow within the same nurturing environment that shaped her father. This trust and connection are deeply valued by BCIS.

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“I remember saying at my 2013 BCIS graduation: ‘Live a little happier, and try to be present in the moment. Living in the present is actually a balance of three dimensions: past, present, and future,’” Andy recalls. To this day, he continues to embrace this philosophy, finding harmony between family and career, passion and responsibility. His life, much like a well-aged bottle of wine, grows richer, more complex, and full of character over time. And so, in the simple joys of daily life, Andy savors the beauty of existence, one moment at a time.