We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mei Sun a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Mei, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was one of the most important lessons you learned in school? Why did that lesson stick with you?

A Turning Point in My Journey

When I was pursuing my PhD in Biology at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) twenty years ago, there was a moment that profoundly shaped my approach to both my career and my life.

One day, during a committee meeting with my PhD mentor and advisors, I was discussing a topic related to my research. I needed to talk about the coronary artery, but as an international student, I struggled with the pronunciation. Unable to say it clearly, I kept referring to it by its abbreviation, “CA.”

My mentor, however, insisted that I pronounce the full term correctly. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t get it right. In frustration, I ended up drawing an anatomical diagram of the coronary artery on the whiteboard to explain what I meant. My mentor looked at the diagram and said, “Yes, that’s correct. But one day, when you’re standing on stage as a scientist presenting your work, you cannot simply apologize for your poor English, rely on abbreviations, or draw pictures to compensate. You must meet the professional standards expected, regardless of language or background.”

That moment left a deep impact on me.
From then on, I stopped seeing language barriers, cultural differences, or any personal disadvantages as excuses. Instead, I came to believe that no matter the circumstances, we must meet the standards required of us — and not just meet them, but strive to excel.

It was a true turning point in my life, a powerful lesson that continues to drive me forward.
I share this story to encourage others: no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, never let obstacles define your limits. Always rise to meet the highest standards and pursue excellence.

Mei, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I hold a PhD in Biology and have built my career at the intersection of scientific research, government leadership, and strategic consulting.
After completing my doctorate, I worked as a research scientist in both pharmaceutical companies and nonprofit research organizations. I later became a Principal Investigator, leading my own laboratory at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID).

Following my time in scientific research, I transitioned into a leadership role at the Federal Defense Health Agency (DHA), where I served as a Program Manager overseeing research funding portfolios that supported important DoD medical research missions.

Recently, I founded my own consulting company — Heyma Consulting.
Heyma Consulting focuses on two major areas:
• Helping companies secure research funding and develop effective funding strategies;
• Assisting entrepreneurs and business owners with personal financial planning, including retirement strategies, health protection, and life insurance solutions.

Our company’s tagline is:
“Providing your financial strategies for your personal and business needs.”

The name “Heyma” (黑馬) means “Black Horse” in Chinese culture — symbolizing a leader who charges ahead with courage and speed, inspiring others to follow.
At Heyma Consulting, we embrace this spirit: we strive to lead, serve our community, and empower entrepreneurs to move forward with confidence and strength.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

At Heyma Consulting, although we are currently a small team, every member embodies the spirit of a “black horse” — someone who leads with resilience, strength, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our company’s name, derived from the Chinese term “黑马” (black horse), symbolizes individuals who rise against the odds and inspire others to follow.

Managing a small team presents unique opportunities. It allows for deeper connections, quicker adaptability, and a culture built on shared vision. However, regardless of a team’s size, my approach to leadership consistently rests on two fundamental principles: discipline and sympathy.

Discipline, I believe, must begin with leadership.
It is not something to be enforced externally but cultivated internally. As the leader, I hold myself to the highest standards first — demonstrating consistency, accountability, and integrity. True discipline is modeled, not mandated; it sets the tone for the entire organization and builds trust within the team.

Equally important is sympathy — the ability to genuinely understand and care for those around you.
While discipline governs how we hold ourselves, sympathy governs how we support others. It means recognizing the challenges our teammates face, offering encouragement, and fostering an environment where every individual feels seen, valued, and empowered.

Another vital aspect we emphasize at Heyma Consulting is work-life balance.
We work hard for a reason — for our families, for our loved ones, and for the people who matter most in our lives. If working too hard comes at the cost of sacrificing family and personal well-being, then we have lost sight of the very purpose we work for.
Maintaining a healthy balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment is essential for the longevity of both individuals and teams.
In this way, work-life balance is an extension of both discipline — knowing when to set boundaries — and sympathy — honoring the human side of every team member.

At Heyma Consulting, by balancing discipline, sympathy, and a strong respect for work-life balance, we create a culture where every “black horse” can thrive, innovate, and lead not only with purpose but also with heart.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

At Heyma Consulting, we focus on serving startups and young entrepreneurs.
Business networking events and startup forums have been our most effective sources for new clients, offering valuable face-to-face connections that build trust and relationships.

However, with countless events and limited hours in a day, success is less about attending more events and more about prioritizing wisely.
Healthy leadership demands balancing ambition with sustainability — working smart, not just working hard.

In addition to in-person networking, online platforms have become an increasingly efficient way to reach new clients.
As AI technology advances, leveraging digital tools for client engagement is becoming essential.

At Heyma Consulting, we also offer both in-person and online classes to support entrepreneurs.
By focusing our time, embracing innovation, and maintaining balance, we build lasting partnerships with the next generation of leaders.

Contact Info:

• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/mei-sun-908b525