Despite the rainy weather, SUSTech’s 2018 graduation ceremony is full of passion and excitement. To capture such emotions, we interviewed a few graduates, their parents, and advisors.

As one of SUSTech’s 2018 summa cum laude graduates of 2018, Jianghao Yue said she was experiencing a mixture of emotions, including happiness, excitement, sadness and emptiness. When asked about her thoughts on winning the honor, she responded: “I can’t represent all graduating SUSTechers, who were all excellent in their own way. However, we SUSTechers all have one thing in common. We dare to innovate and venture but are also practical at the same time.”

Speaking of collectivity, a student talked about his friendship here: “I’m so lucky to have made a few excellent friends at SUSTech. I’m always emotional when thinking about the time we spent together, especially at this time of year. They’re the most precious present in my life.”

Another graduate reflected on his time on SUSTech and had some “real talk” for current SUSTechers: “Don’t waste your time – make sure what your goals are and make comprehensive plans accordingly. Make the most of your four years.”

SUSTech and Harbin Institute of Technology jointly educated the first master’s graduates, who are making history with both institutions and for themselves.

Finance Department graduate Huang Guiyuan highly praised the excellent environment of the ceremony venue and said she would always miss her alma mater.

Zhen Jiadi, who was about to start working in Beijing, said she was preparing to reset herself and embrace a new chapter of her life with a calm state of mind. Her boyfriend Zhang Jianqiao was coming with her, and he expressed his sense of belonging to SUSTech.

Ren Ke, who will begin his Ph.D. studies at SUSTech this fall, was equally excited because of the infectious emotions at the graduation ceremony. He considered it a holy experience and thanked his advisors and professors repeatedly. 

Many current students were at the venue to support and learn from the 2018 graduates. One said he felt inspired and was looking forward to attending his own graduation ceremony with no regrets after three years. Another current student was moved by the speeches of the President and faculty representative, and she vowed to work harder in the coming academic year.  

Faculty representative Yao Xin, who is also the Department Head of Computer Science and Engineering, felt very proud for his graduating students: “Your youthful spirit and ambitious dreams have made SUSTech truly come to life; your desire to explore the world of science has contributed to the research-oriented nature of the university. You are the ones who define SUSTech, which will forever be your home!”

Dean of School of Environmental Science and Engineering Liu Junguo smiled when talking about graduates. He had a lot to say, but chose to leave just a few remarks: “Please retain your passion and venturing spirit after leaving SUSTech and entering a new chapter of life, and be prepared for the upcoming challenges in the new environment.”

Associate Professor Luo Dan from Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering wished the graduates all the best, but also reminded them that life would be harder once they enter the workplace and compete in the society. He hoped that every graduate would face obstacles with a positive mindset, stay humble when achieving success, and give back to society and the country with their knowledge.

Many parents traveled thousands of miles before arriving at SUSTech to witness the defining moment of their children’s lives, and we can hear the happiness in their words.

“My son has always been a little different, and I’m glad that he insisted on coming to SUSTech in high school. His achievements today proved his decision right, and we’re truly happy for him.”

Another parent is a fan of SUSTech who has been promoting the university as a high school teacher: “I encourage my students to apply for SUSTech so that they can receive a world-class education in China!”