On the afternoon of September 8th, the Professional Degree Education Center (PDEC) of USSTBS held the 2024 Opening Ceremony for new graduate students. Sheng Chun, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and Vice President of USST, Cui Guomin, Executive Vice Dean of the Graduate School; and the leadership team from USSTBS, including Zhao Laijun, Dean and Managing Director of the PDEC, Ma Jingbo, Secretary of the Party Committee, Zhang Zheng, Vice Dean and Vice Director of the PDEC, Fang Zhiming, Vice Dean, Pu Yingying, Vice Secretary of the Party Committee, along with PDEC’s program directors, faculty representatives, and nearly 500 new graduate students. The ceremony was hosted by Zhang Zheng.
The Opening Ceremony
Embracing the Autumn Breeze, Embarking on a Journey to Dreams
Sheng Chun delivered a speech and expressed that USST always adheres to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought, committed to becoming an innovative university that leads industrial and technological advancement, and strives to progress towards a first-class university in science and engineering. Emphasizing the significant responsibilities and social missions of graduate students in the new era, Sheng Chun centered his speech on the theme 'Pursuing Excellence and Innovation at a New Beginning' and set forth several expectations for the Freshmen: Firstly, he urged the students to remain steadfast in their ideals and pursuits, regardless of the challenges they may encounter in the future. Secondly, he encouraged them to strive for excellence and self-improvement, be brave in exploring the unknown, continuously accumulate practical experience, and focus on personal morality. Thirdly, he emphasized the importance of innovation, developing an innovative spirit, and moving beyond traditional thinking. Fourthly, he highlighted the significance of being grounded in practice and contributing to society, aligning personal development with social needs. Finally, he urged the students to value their time at university, emphasizing the need to balance academic research with life, and to focus on communication and collaboration with their peers to progress together.
Speech by Sheng Chun
Forge Ahead with Determination, Embrace Responsibility and Mission
Zhao Laijun imparted his message to the incoming students, urging them to prioritize the nation, and shoulder the country's responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of responsibility and sustainability. He also encouraged students to leverage their expertise to realize their pursuits, highlighting that the studies at USSTBS feature interdisciplinary and practice-oriented, which will enrich their lives and pave the way for new avenues of growth.
Speech by Zhao Laijun
Soaring Ambitions, Celebrating Moments of Glory
To attract more exceptional applicants for professional degree programs such as USST's MBA, MPA, MEM, and MPAcc, USSTBS has launched a series of scholarships including the Sincerity Scholarship, Alumni Scholarship, Freshmen Scholarship, Competition Scholarship, and Study Abroad Scholarship. These initiatives are designed to offer multi-level and full-coverage support through various scholarship opportunities. Ma Jingbo announced the Decision on Awarding the 2024 Freshmen Scholarships of the PDEC , and the awarded students were honored during the ceremony. He also expressed his expectations for the students to work diligently and contribute to the betterment of the country.
Ma Jingbo unveiled the 2024 Freshman Scholarship Winners
Awarding Ceremony
Journey to Excellence, United Towards a Brilliant Future
Faculty representative Fang Zhiming used a doctoral student’s learning experience as an example to encourage students to embrace their new roles, value time on campus, continually enhance their systematic thinking, and fully take advantage of the university’s learning and practice platform.
Speech by Fang Zhiming
Student representative Wang Ning from the 2023 MBA program said Born at the summit of towering mountains, you can surely cross over any ridge to reach the distant shore you seek. She mentioned that our school boasts experienced professors, a beautiful campus, a variety of vibrant activities, etc. Regardless of the challenges we may encounter, do not be anxious, and here we work together to build the mental agility needed to navigate uncertainty.
Speech by Wang Ning, MBA Student Representative, Class of 2023
Student representative Zhou Xia from the 2024 MPA program, who was also an undergraduate from the class of 1999 at USST, highlighted the significant responsibilities of an individual. With confidence in her alma mater which is renowned for its rigorous and advanced educational philosophy, she started her new studies by returning to USSTBS.
Speech by Zhou Xia, MPA Student Representative, Class of 2024
Zhang Zheng presided over the Opening Ceremony
Before the ceremony, new students received welcome gifts at the registration desk and participated in orientation meetings where they engaged in communication with new classmates and teachers. Later, in the auditorium, they received the university emblem, marking the moment they became new youths of USST, thus beginning a new chapter in their lives.
Welcome gifts for new graduate students
Highlights the Ceremony
Accompanied by the resonant university anthem, the 2024 Opening Ceremony for the PDEC 's new graduate students came to a close. Together at this new starting sailboat, let us pursue excellence and innovation, composing a more brilliant chapter!
PDEC 2024 new graduate students opening ceremony
Translated by Jin Liang
Reviewed by Liu Weiwei
