International alumni club spotlight

As our international club spotlight series continues, we remain dedicated to showcasing the remarkable stories and dynamic spirit of our University of Michigan alumni worldwide. Across bustling cities like Shanghai, London, Mumbai, and countless others around the globe, our international alumni communities uphold the proud traditions and excellence synonymous with Michigan. As we Look to Michigan for inspiration and leadership, our alumni embody the passion, insight, and commitment that define Wolverines, creating meaningful connections and tight-knit communities around the world.

In this edition of Going Global, we spotlight the U‑M Shanghai Alumni Club, who regularly connect through engaging events like football watch parties and lively receptions.

We asked Shanghai Club leaders Erin Gong and Dalu Qi how they embrace the Wolverine spirit half a world away from the Ann Arbor campus. 

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the Shanghai Alumni Club? 

One of my favorite aspects of the Shanghai Alumni Club is definitely the shared experience of watching Michigan football games together, even at odd hours here in Shanghai. It's also incredibly valuable to be part of a group that brings together people from so many different industries and backgrounds. I really appreciate the chance to learn from others and gain new perspectives through these connections.

What is your favorite Michigan memory?

Football Saturdays, learning to be semi-good at beer pong, and relaxing in the Arb during the beautiful summer—definitely highlighted moments of my time there. Another one of my impactful memories was volunteering at a domestic violence shelter through Alternative Weekend in my first year. It was a really significant experience for me. As an international student, it provided an important opportunity to connect with local communities and understand different aspects of life in the U.S. It also allowed me to make some great friends who shared similar values.

What motivated you to join the Shanghai Alumni Club? 

Moving back to Shanghai in 2021 after years abroad, I found myself a stranger in my own hometown. Attending a Shanghai Alumni Club event was a lifeline; I immediately connected (and reconnected!) with some fellow Wolverines who have since become my closest friends here. Now, by actively contributing to the club, I hope to pay it forward and help other Wolverines find that same sense of belonging and community in Shanghai through our alumni network.

What motivated you to join the Shanghai Alumni Club?


The club feels like such a natural part of my life now, it’s hard to trace back to one reason.
I’ve always wanted to give back to the UMich community—my undergrad years shaped who I am today. In 2016, a club leader from another school wanted to co-host a mixer with UMich alumni. I found our local group and helped organize the event. That first party brought in 70 people and kicked off my journey with the club.
When I heard about the 2017 bicentennial celebration in Shanghai, I wanted to contribute more, so I began hosting monthly mixers—which we’ve continued to this day.
Through these gatherings, I met Wolverines from all over. Over time, I became part of the community—and it became part of me.

What is your favorite Shanghai Alumni Club moment or event?


In our careers, we rarely get to plan something 5-6 years in advance and see it come to life. The club gave me that chance.
Early on, I was inspired by Hong Kong Club President Jonathan Wu’s “Jonathan Model”: identifying local talent before college, supporting them through UMich, and welcoming them back to grow the alumni network—a virtuous cycle.
I’ve dreamed of bringing that to Shanghai, and it started to become real this March at our first Welcome Party. We hosted 70 students and parents—our most unifying event yet.
Answering their questions brought back our own best memories—favorite classes, professors, foods, and spots in Ann Arbor. It reminded us why we care so deeply and why we give.
I hope we can keep recreating that experience—for more alumni and more future Wolverines.

How would you describe the Shanghai Alumni Club and what it means to you?


In the past nine years, the club has become more than a community—it’s become my spiritual home.
Shanghai is where I live. The club is where I belong. Many members feel like family.

Interested in Starting an International Club?

Check the Club Finder to see if there is already an International Club in your area. If no group currently exists and you would like to be a contact or start a club or an online community in your region, contact Natasha Novak, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, at [email protected] for more information.