Eyee Hsu

Eyee Hsu, host of Crossover. She has been the host of Up Close, CCTV-9 (CCTV-News)'s only guest interview program with a live studio audience. She has worked with Up Close since its inception starting as the writer for the program, and brings a Western perspective grounded in Eastern philosophy and sensitivity. An American-born Chinese, Eyee has always been drawn to her Chinese roots and vowed that she would one day establish her home in China. Now currently residing in Beijing, her dream has been realized.

Eyee graduated with high distinction in scholarship from UC Berkeley with a double-major in Economics and Environmental Science. For over five years, she was a management consultant with a leading healthcare consulting firm, advising America’s largest healthcare systems on organizational, operational and strategic issues. She has performed healthcare work in the United States, Canada, Japan, China’s mainland and Taiwan.

Eyee has a passionate interest for cultures, has traveled extensively and loves the outdoors. She is an avid snowboarder and hiker and is always ready to try anything new. With a welcoming spirit and an objective perspective, Eyee Hsu brings warmth and genuine sincerity to Up Close.

Where did your name come from?

My name in Chinese is 徐亦怡。 In English, my first name is Eyee, pronounced like two “e”s. My last name is Hsu, pronounced like “Xu”. Trust me, it was not easy growing up in the United States with a name like this, but now I am grateful for having such an unusual name.

To you, what is the most important thing in a person?

I believe that being a good listener is one of the most important characteristics in a person. Only by listening to others can you gain a richer perspective and really begin to learn about how to be a global citizen. You can learn something from everyone.

What do you dislike most in a person?

Arrogance. I believe that arrogance breeds ignorance.

Which Up-Close programs have been your favorites?

Each guest on Up-Close has left a strong impression on my own personal outlook. And that’s because each individual has a truly inspiring story to tell. We’ve interviewed incredible people! But if you forced me to pick a couple, I would have to say the two would have to be the Flying Tigers, and Dr. Jane Goodall.

The Flying Tigers were true heroes in the Sino-Japanese War. Now mostly in their 80s and 90s, a group of Flying Tigers and other WWII heroes came to Up Close to share their stories from that time. Their heroic sacrifices and courageous spirits are a rare thing to find. But most touching was their way of celebrating life with each other. I’ll never forget having the honor of being surrounded by so many heroes in one studio.

Dr. Jane Goodall is a childhood hero of mine. I first learned about her when I was six years old. She has and always will be a personal inspiration. The most incredible thing is that after all these years admiring her, when I finally met her; she surpassed all of my expectations. Sitting next to her in the studio is a life experience I will treasure. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to meet and interview her.

Which was your most "fun" interview?

The diplomatic answer would be “all of them.” But ok since you need me to pick one, I would have to say it was the David Wu, Talk da Talk interview. It was unique because actually David and I are friends, so it was easy to talk and have fun. There was a lot of joking, although we touched upon some more serious topics as well. We also had a great time playing games with our studio audience – it was hilarious.

Oh yeah, near the end of the interview, I also got a chance to put David “on the spot” so tune in if you want to see him squirm a little! (laughter)

Who would you want to interview most?

The list is endless. But if I had to choose someone in China, I would have to say Vice Premier Wu Yi. Here is a woman of incredible intelligence, integrity, ambition and elegance. She is the most powerful woman in China today and a very important role model for the women of the world.

What is your philosophy on life?

Stay positive and aim to be happy. Life will continue to throw challenges at you no matter how much you plan. These are tests of individual character and it will be up to you to assert yourself and turn an impossible situation into a positive opportunity.

What is your advice to everyone out there?

Remember there is only one person in the world like you - yourself. That makes you absolutely unique and special.

What do you do in your spare time?

I have a variety of hobbies, and love to do all forms of exercise. Lately, I have been learning boxing, and practicing pilates. I am currently working on my pilates teaching certification - I love teaching and will teach an occasional class in Beijing. But my favorite forms of exercise are outdoors – snowboarding, hiking.

I love to read. But if I have a larger block of free time, I will always try to do some type of travel, whether it’s within China or outside of China. My passion is to experience new cultures, and explore new sights. I feel this really stimulates the soul and makes one feel connected to the rest of the world. I went to India in 2005, and last year went to Peru and Alaska. I hope to set my foot on the African continent for the first time soon!