Representatives from the HNU-ASU International College at Hainan University (HAIC) recently participated in the second International Early-Career Researcher Conference in Hospitality and Tourism (IECR), at Macau University of Science and Technology from May 9 to 12.

The HAIC delegation included faculty members Kim Jong-Hyeong, Youn Hyewon, Jeff Downey and Xiao Ranyue, along with  graduate students Hai Tian, Lyu Shufan and Zheng Yifan. The students showcased their research prowess and forward-thinking approach through engaging academic presentations. Their professional competence and academic vision earned recognition from international peers, reflecting HAIC’s commitment to cultivating high-level research talent.

HAIC student Hai Tian (R) gives an academic presentation. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

HAIC student Lyu Shufan (L) delivers a research presentation. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

HAIC student Zheng Yifan delivers a research report. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

Hai Tian presented a report titled “Grandparents’ Perceptions, Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions Regarding Grandtravel”. The study applied the Value-Belief-Norm model and the Theory of Planned Behavior to explore how older adults perceive and engage in travel experiences with their grandchildren.

Lyu Shufan’s presentation, titled “Grandparent Vacations with Grandchildren: Perceived Benefits and Challenges”, is based on semi-structured interviews. Lyu’s qualitative research offered a nuanced view of the intergenerational dynamics and real-world challenges associated with grandtravel.

Zheng Yifan’s talk on “What Makes Ethnic Restaurants Feel Authentic?” drew on the Stimulus-Organism-Response theoretical framework to develop a multidimensional model of authenticity perception in ethnic cuisine brands. His research provided new insight into how specific brand attributes influence consumers’ authenticity perception.

The IECR conference aimed to foster academic exchange among postgraduate students and emerging scholars in hospitality and tourism, while facilitating dialogue with experts and practitioners across the globe. This year’s event welcomed hundreds of participants, offering valuable opportunities for professional networking and cross-cultural academic engagement.

HAIC faculty members and graduate students pose for a photo. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC] 

HAIC continues to prioritize the development of students’ academic capabilities through international research platforms, enriched academic training systems and expanded global exchange channels. In recent years, HAIC students have become increasingly active on the international academic stage, contributing research that reflects the college’s disciplinary strength and forward momentum.

Looking ahead, HAIC remains committed to enhancing its research-oriented education model, strengthening academic support, encouraging innovative inquiry and promoting the application of research outcomes to serve sustainable development in hospitality and tourism studies.