In order to continuously and thoroughly implement the fundamental task of cultivating virtue and talent, and to effectively advance the Three Rooms and One Hall special activity, the School of Intelligence Science and Technology held the second Zhike Luncheon π faculty-student exchange luncheon at the No. 16 Student Canteen on April 17. The event invited teachers Yao Yao and Long Xiaoxiao from the college, as well as eight undergraduate students from the class of 2023, to have lunch together. They engaged in discussions on topics such as career development, research interests, and the cultivation of academic abilities. The luncheon was presided over by the college's counselor, Liu Haohan.
Professors Yao and Long first addressed the students' questions regarding career development. Regarding the choice of studying abroad, they pointed out that there are currently many restrictions on studying in the United States, while the competition for studying in places like Hong Kong and Singapore is also quite fierce. Whether to choose to study abroad or pursue a guaranteed graduate admission should be based on a comprehensive consideration of various factors, including personal interests, family circumstances, and employment prospects. Taking his own experience as an example, Professor Long noted that in addition to research capabilities, the living environment and personal character in a cross-cultural context are also important factors to consider when choosing a destination for studying abroad.
Regarding the questions on research interests and directions, Professor Yao shared his own insights. He mentioned that one should take the initiative to explore research directions. During the summer vacation of his junior year, he began to study courses such as Introduction to Algorithms on his own, laying the foundation for his subsequent research. He believes that many of the current faculty members in the college come from the industry. They are generally young, active, and have a broad range of interests and strong connections with the industry, which is an advantage of the college. Students should seize the opportunity to participate in the research projects that the faculty members are currently advancing. Even if they are only responsible for a part of the project, it will be highly beneficial for their own growth.
How to balance research training while ensuring the study of subject courses is a common challenge faced by many students. In response to this, the two professors suggested that, on the one hand, it is important to build a solid foundation, including in mathematics, physics, and coding. The undergraduate stage is mainly focused on general education, and students should try to acquire as much knowledge as possible, which will be of great help for subsequent graduate studies and the improvement of research capabilities. On the other hand, students should gradually develop a clear direction of interest and a long-term plan for themselves. There is no need to be overly eager for quick success or utilitarian. At present, the ability to publish papers should not necessarily be the sole criterion for measuring research ability. Instead, the primary task should be learning and enhancing one's capabilities, with the belief that extensive accumulation will lead to eventual breakthroughs.
Finally, drawing from their own experiences, the two professors offered valuable life advice to the students. Professor Yao suggested that students should focus their energy on one or two things, rather than superficially trying out various opportunities. If they find that something is not suitable for them, they should quickly change their approach. Professor Long noted that in addition to pursuing research, students can also explore the possibilities of various careers. Participating in conventional research projects such as university innovation projects can help develop their cooperation and coordination skills, and may also reveal other strengths they have beyond research.
The second Zhike Luncheon π faculty-student exchange luncheon provided students with more intuitive answers to questions regarding studying abroad, guaranteed graduate admission, capability development, and life planning. The college will continue to uphold its commitment to cultivating virtue and talent, further advance the Three Rooms and One Hall special activities in a practical and in-depth manner, build more communication bridges between students and teachers, and support the comprehensive development of students.
