Revving up the racing culture: A day in the life of Shirley

Editor’s Note

Shirley Xie, an aspiring student at Tsinghua University, has devoted herself to the field of vehicle engineering and is also a dedicated member of the Tsinghua Formula Student Racing Team. Her life at Tsinghua is far from ordinary – it revolves around pushing the boundaries, transforming theories into tangible realities, and fostering collaborative efforts towards a shared objective. Join us as we delve into a glimpse of Shirley's day at Tsinghua University.

“Human beings always desire the ultimate speed,” said Shirley. “Before studying vehicle engineering, I had many doubts. But when I drove for the first time and created for the first time, I understood the charm of this subject.”

Initially harboring doubts, Shirley found her calling in the realm of vehicle engineering, driven by a profound curiosity. It was during that pivotal moment, as she took the wheel and experienced the thrill of driving, that she comprehended the enchantment embedded within this captivating discipline. From that moment on, Shirley's passion for vehicle engineering blossomed, fueled by the joy of creation and a deep appreciation for the subject's inherent allure.

“After joining the Tsinghua Formula Student Racing Team,” said Shirley, “I can put what I have learned into practice.”

Consisting of only around 20 members, the Tsinghua Formula Student Racing Team makes groundbreaking achievements each year as they design their own racing cars for the formula student competition in China. Crafting a racing car from the ground up is tremendously challenging, but Shirley finds solace in the unwavering support of her dedicated team, fostering a sense of unity that fuels their remarkable accomplishments. 

“Before going to university, I didn’t know much about racing,” said Shirley. “But in the team, I experienced the extreme spirit of motorsport.”

Beyond the application of theories and the fulfillment of personal aspirations, the passionate racing enthusiasts of the Tsinghua Formula Student Racing Team have a grander objective: to promote the racing culture to a wider audience. In their quest, they eagerly anticipate and invite more like-minded students to join their ranks. Together, they aspire to ignite a passion for racing in others, fostering a community that celebrates the thrill and ingenuity behind this captivating sport.

Shirley's typical day at Tsinghua can be encapsulated by three words: passion, dedication, and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that with boundless passion, unwavering dedication, and unyielding determination, we can achieve greatness and transform our dreams into reality.

Read more about THU

International Cultural Festival celebrates Tsinghua’s diversity

Meet Tsinghua volunteers who look forward to biodiversity

A day in the life of Tsinghua Kazakhstan student Shadi

TsinghuaRen | Revving up the racing culture: A day in the life of Tsinghua Student Shirley Xie

Writer: Wong Rhui Poh

Editors: Liu Shutian, Gillian Tang

Designer:Liu Zhengyu

Reviewers: Chen Ken, Lin Yuan