May 10 2007
Joseph Lee
Joe Lee at Pace was one of the professors on Chu’s list. He stood out among others because he’s first reply to me was that he’s willing to supervise me. Wow.. I was excitied. After few weeks when we finally aligned our schedules, we met in his neat office that he shared with someone. He’s dapper, used a handkerchief, not just a pocket square, but a functional tool. His British accent (where he got his Ph.D. recently) would fade from time to time replaced by his native Hong Kong tone. It turned out, his area of interest or specialty mirrors one of mine: 19th century missionary in China. His family has deep root with the missionary, and he inquired about Liu’s museum since he didn’t know. We had more than an hour lively discussion or Q&A, and decided we should meet regularly, that he’ll draw up an outline for me to follow; … Rosy! I was happy, that here is a mentor who happens could also use my research.
On our way out, I asked if his Chinese history has long waiting list. Come on, China is hot and sexy .. “No, only the one who failed at other courses come to mine … to fulfill credit requirement ..” he confessed. That’s my first meeting of him, also my last. I tried to contact him three times after, but never go a reply. Ok, I’m not a stalker, but wondered what has happened since?