Xueyao Jian, Class of 2027, is an Applied Mathematics major and the president of the Judo club.
“Sports aren’t just about winning; they’re about personal growth and development.”
Xueyao Jiang, class of 2027
Q: How did you first get into judo?
To be honest, before college, I wasn’t physically active I took a judo class as a freshman and found it really interesting. At first, we started with the basics, such as learning how to crawl, roll, and practice fundamental techniques. As I progressed, I began participating in more activities and gradually realized how much I enjoyed the sport. Judo introduced me to a new way of improving my flexibility, coordination, and overall physical fitness. What really kept me engaged was the complexity of the sport; it’s not just about strength, but also about strategy, balance, and control.
Judo Club training class Group Photo
Group Photo at Judo Class
How do you stay disciplined in your training?
When I was a freshman, the club president was my friend, and she always encouraged me to attend sessions even when I was not very motivated. That support helped me stay committed. Moreover, even though judo is physically and mentally demanding, it has become a form of stress relief for me after a long day of classes. There’s something very satisfying about focusing entirely on the movements and techniques. It requires complete concentration, which helps me momentarily forget any stress or worries.
Judo Collaboration Training
Q: What do you find most fulfilling about being part of the Judo Club, and How has the community impacted you?
One of the things I love most about judo is the sense of community within the club. The coach and members are incredibly supportive, and I’ve found that judo is as much about teamwork as it is about individual skill. Unlike some other sports where competition is solely about defeating your opponent, in judo, your progress often depends on your training partners. You need to trust and support each other to grow. Judo requires close physical contact, so having a positive, respectful environment is essential. As I learned more, I felt a strong desire to help new members feel welcome, just as others had done for me.
Xueyao with her first opponent at the 2024 China National Collegiate Judo Championship
Q: Can you share your experience competing in tournaments and what you’ve learned from them?
Last November, when the Judo Varsity wasn’t a thing, I participated in the Shanghai Judo Open Competition. Our team won six medals, and I was thrilled to receive my first medal. However, I wouldn’t consider myself a highly competitive person. For me, sports aren’t just about winning; they’re about personal growth and development. The titles serve to inspire us and give us something to strive for. Yet, more than the medals themselves, what I valued most was the experience of preparing for the competition. The intensive training sessions pushed me beyond my limits and taught me how to cooperate more effectively with my training partners.
Xueyao stands on the podium (leftmost) with her first medal at the Shanghai Judo Open
DKU Judo Varsity Team at the 2024 Shanghai Judo Open
Q: As the new president of the Judo Club, what are your goals for the club and for yourself as an athlete?
Becoming the president of the Judo Club is a huge responsibility, and there’s still a lot for me to learn. My main goal is to expand the club and encourage more students to try judo. I hope that in the future, we can provide even more resources and opportunities for students interested in judo. Beyond the club, my personal goal is to continue improving my skills and deepen my understanding of judo. I especially want to refine my techniques for real combat situations. While competitions are important, I believe that constantly pushing myself to improve is what truly defines a true athlete.
Xueyao as new president of judo club at 2025 Spring Club Expo
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