Yi was born and raised in mainland China, and came to the U.S. in 2002 to pursue her post-graduate education. She graduated with a Master's from East China Normal University in Shanghai, China and a Ph.D from Arizona State University. Yi has taught and researched in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 20 years, in both China and the U.S.
Yi is fascinated by the Italy-originated Reggio Emilia approach, especially its emphasis on art and projects. As an art and science lover herself, she enjoys hands-on activities and working with young children on a daily basis. Yi is settled in Davis with her engineer husband, Shiqiao, and two lovely children, Rain and Joy.