Bringing a translator’s mindset to global wealth management. Chengcheng Wang completed the MSc in Translation Studies at the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC) in 2023. Originally from Quzhou in western China, she came to Edinburgh after an undergraduate degree in Translation and Interpreting in China, which, as she explains, gave her a solid start in languages. But Chengcheng knew she "wanted to experience a different academic culture, which brought me to Edinburgh.”Now working as a Premier Relationship Manager at HSBC in Hangzhou, Chengchen’s main focus is helping high-net-worth clients with their global asset allocation and wealth planning.People are often surprised to find a Translation Studies graduate in banking, but Chengcheng sees a clear link between the two: “To me, the connection is actually quite natural.” Chengcheng Wang in front of the University of Edinburgh Main Library on graduation day “At LLC, I learned that translation isn't just about swapping words between Chinese and English. It’s about listening carefully and understanding the context.”The skills she developed during her MSc continue to shape her professional approach, and, in her current role, she feels that she does ‘the exact same thing’. As she puts it: “I have to ‘translate’ complex market updates and financial jargon into something relevant to my clients’ lives.” The critical thinking and cross-cultural awareness I picked up at Edinburgh help me build trust with my clients quickly. I treat every financial plan like a translation project - it needs to be precise, logical, and tailored to the audience. Chengcheng Wang MSc Translation Studies, 2023 Finding focus in Edinburgh's green spacesChengcheng looks back fondly on both the city and the University environment, particularly the many green spaces close to campus. “I really miss the atmosphere of the city. There’s a sense of calmness in Edinburgh that helps you focus.” "I loved walking through the Meadows or just sitting in the Main Library with a view of Arthur's Seat.” It wasn't just the Edinburgh cityscape that shaped her experience. The academic community at LLC was just as important to her: “The professors at LLC were incredibly supportive. They encouraged us to think outside the box, which gave me the confidence to explore a career path different from most of my peers.”Thinking beyond translationFor students considering Translation Studies and wondering where it might lead, Chengcheng’s message is clear. Her advice is to embrace the breadth of opportunities a humanities background can offer. “Don’t limit yourself. Just because you study Translation doesn't mean you have to be a translator forever. The soft skills you learn here - like empathy and communication - are actually hard skills in many other industries, including finance.” Be open-minded. Your background in humanities gives you a unique perspective that data-driven industries really value. So, trust your training and don't be afraid to try something new. Chengcheng Wang MSc Translation Studies, 2023 Are you interested in studying Translation Studies?With a wide range of languages offered, our one-year taught masters programme will help you gain an understanding of the cultural role of translation in multiple contexts, while also enhancing your practical skills in translation as an activity. Throughout the programme, we also focus on important transferable skills that employers look for in roles where clear and precise communication is essential. The University of Edinburgh is an official Higher Education (HE) Language Partner of the Chartered Institute of Linguists and a member of the RWS Campus - Trados Academic Partner Program. In the QS World Rankings by Subject 2026, we ranked 3rd in the UK for Modern Languages and in the World Top 15 for Modern Languages (12) and Arts & Humanities (9). Find out more about studying Translation Studies at Edinburgh Tags Meet our graduates Postgraduate Translation Studies This article was published on Friday 21 August 2026
