The programme introduction session for the cohort of 2023 at the Joint School took place on Thursday, September 7. Programme directors and faculty members gave an overview of the programmes, and all deputy programme directors and personal tutors were present.

Civil Engineers are custodian of natural and built environment.

Yue Huang, programme director, started the induction with a Q&A session, exploring the essence of civil engineering. Ali Rahman introduced talent development at Southwest Jiaotong University. Ding Haibo, Liu Yu, and Li Yang, personal tutors, provided valuable information on how to develop research interest.

Nikolaos Nikitas and Jun Ye answered students' questions about the "Structural Analysis" modules, encouraging exploration in civil engineering. The session deepened students' understanding and fueled their enthusiasm for civil engineering, motivating them towards academic excellence.

Nothing moves without Mechanical Engineers.

Martin Levesley, on behalf of Programme Director Qing’en Meng, introduced the programme and shared his own story about his childhood interest in engineering. He chose mechanical engineering as his area of study and research, particularly in medical rehabilitation robots. He discussed the future development directions of the program and encouraged students to lay a strong theoretical foundation in their areas of interest. Justin Gallagher, instructor for the "Computer Applications in Engineering Analysis"module, introduced the content and learning methods.

Tian Huaiwen, deputy programme director, welcomed the new students and encouraged them to explore different fields during their university years. Personal tutorsfor the 2023 cohort introduced themselves and their research interests, encouraging the students to go to them for academic support.

EE is everywhere and inherent in everything we do.

Li Zhang, on behalf of Programme Director Andrew H. Kemp, introduced the Electronic and Electrical Engineering programme. She highlighted the research directions and research teams of the School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at University of Leeds. She also shared inspiring experiences of some Joint School students who are pursuing their PhDs in the UK. Additionally, she talked about British culture, scenery, and campus life to encourage students to explore the world.

In the interactive session, Li Zhang encouraged shy students to ask questions and involved them in lively discussions. The students then met their personal tutors Li Jikun, Ai Jing and Tang Peng, who filled the students with confidence and determination to pursue their dreams.

Without computing nothing adds up.

John Stell, programme director of CS, began by defining computer science and dispelling the misconception that CS is solely about using the latest computers. He explained that computer science requires three essential skills: hardware understanding, mathematical modeling, and programming. He illustrated these concepts with classic examples.He also introduced Transfer to Leeds programme, encouraging students to study at Leeds.

Xing Huanlai warmly welcomed the new students. As the module co-leader for the "Network" module, he expressed his excitement to meet and teach the students in the future classroom. Following this, Luo Zhipeng, along with the personal tutors Jia Zhen, Yu Xiuying, Luo Shouxi and Laha ALE, introduced their own research areas. Yu Xiuying also introduced the Jiaotong University ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest and invited the CE students to join the competition team.

Materials create an infinite future.

Andrew Bell, the programme director, led the students on a tour of Leeds city and the University of Leeds. He particularly showcased the Bragg Centre, named after the Nobel Prize-winning scientist, William Henry Bragg, and shared his inspiring story. Andrew stressed the ubiquitous presence of materials in our daily lives and underscored the vital role of materials science as a critical interdisciplinary field. He emphasised that future advancements in areas such as smart technology, aerospace, and transportation heavily depend on innovative materials. He encouraged students to establish a strong foundation in their studies, highlighting the importance of mastering subjects like physics, chemistry, and materials science.

Jiang Xiaosong warmly welcomed the inaugural batch of materials science students and presented the programme's strengths and prospects from the perspectives of historical legacy, research achievements, and practical platforms. He urged students to approach their studies with humility and perseverance, believing that with lofty aspirations, a bright future awaits them. The personal tutors, Chen Xiaolang, Zhang Chengsong, Ning Hongbo and Zhong Zhengye, introduced their own research backgrounds and academic accomplishments. With their extensive expertise and rich research experience, they are committed to providing students with robust guidance and support throughout their academic journey.

The inductions concluded with offer letter presentation. All the students received their offer letters from the University of Leeds.

By Jessie LIU