Bio
Tianyi Zhai serves as the Admissions Program Coordinator (Communications) for the School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD). She manages key areas of SMTD’s admissions operations, including communications, marketing, event planning, office logistics, student staff management, as well as data and CRM system support.
Originally from Beijing, China, Zhai graduated from the University of Michigan in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in Film, Television & Media (FTVM) and Psychology, earning both highest distinction and highest honors.
During her time at Michigan, Zhai built experience in higher education through diverse roles across campus. She worked as a Marketing and Communications Intern with the Information and Technology Services, a Media Assistant at ArtsEngine, and a Research Administration Assistant in the Department of Film, Television & Media. These experiences affirmed her commitment to serving students and strengthening campus communities. Upon graduation, she joined U-M’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions as an Admissions Representative.
Outside of her administrative work, Zhai is also an active creative. She has built a parallel career as a writer, director, and producer. She began staging original musicals in Beijing at age 14 and later transitioned into filmmaking at U-M, where she wrote and directed multiple short films. She also founded the university’s first cross-cultural film production collective and served as President and General Manager of WOLV-TV, Michigan’s student-run television station.
In her free time, Zhai enjoys cooking authentic Chinese food, sharing laughter over comedy shows with her husband, and spending time with family and friends – usually over something delicious.
As a practicing creative working in higher education, Zhai is committed to supporting students to pursue their academic and artistic ambitions at SMTD.
