Class of 2024: From day one to graduation

As the Class of 2024 prepares to don their caps and gowns, we took a moment to sit down with a few soon-to-be graduating students and reflect on the remarkable journey that has led them here.

Get to know the students

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

Ziqi: My name is Lou Ziqi from China, majoring in journalism and communications.

Tata: Hi! I’m Tata from Indonesia. I’m studying for an MPA degree at the School of Public Policy and Management.

Raphael: I am Raphael, a French Computer Science Master’s student at Tsinghua University.

Shin Ni: I’m Shin Ni Chen, from Malaysia. I’m studying at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University.

Zhao Jin: I’m Zhao Jin, from China. I’m studying at the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

    Shin Ni

  Tata

Raphael

Zhao Jin

 Day One at Tsinghua

Can you describe your first day at Tsinghua?

Ziqi: I think I was filled with great anticipation and a deep sense of freedom.

Tata: I was mesmerized by how beautiful and large Tsinghua is.

Raphael: My first day at Tsinghua felt like stepping into a whole new world—vibrant, energetic, and full of promise.

Shin Ni: Our orientation was held online but I could feel an undeniable connection to the school and other students.

Zhao Jin: My first day at Tsinghua was overwhelming with a sense of "vastness and novelty," like a dream come true.

Ziqi saves the beauty of Tsinghua's campus on one snow day with her camera. This is one of the many things that Tsinghua students cherish and take pride in.

Journey and Growth at Tsinghua

Three words to describe what Tsinghua means to you?

Ziqi: Platform for growth, home of the heart, reflection.

Tata: Self-rediscovering, self-development, life-changing experience.

Raphael: Excellence,innovation, opportunity.

Shin Ni: Opportunity, growth, inspiration.

Zhao Jin: collective, a teacher, a way of thinking.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned at Tsinghua?

Ziqi: It was the History of the Media. It helped firm up my life choices and academic paths.

Tata: It's okay to fail, but the most important thing is always to stand up again and do the best in our capacity.

Raphael: The importance of perseverance.

Shin Ni: While not everything is within my control, doing my best and accepting outcomes is crucial.

Zhao Jin: Tsinghua has provided me with a comprehensive education fostering all-around development.

Cherished Memories and Dreams Aheads

What is your most memorable moment at Tsinghua?

Ziqi: Every time I stand in front of someone and speak eloquently, whether it's a presentation or a group meeting report. These moments gave me a strong sense of confidence.

Ziqi in the 2021 College Student Day activity "Cover Story"

Tata: Performing at Gala Night with fellow Indonesian communities. I got the chance to introduce Indonesian rich culture and made new friends.

Tata with other Indonesian students at the 2024 Gala Night

Raphael: Collaborating on a compelling series of articles for Professor Dunham’s In-Depth News Writing class. The experience stood out due to the intense teamwork, insightful discussions, and the opportunity to explore such a timely and relevant issue.

Raphael with Professor Dunham and other classmates from the In-depth News Writing class

Shin Ni: When I first took on the role of the Global Village event leader. Participating in and leading an event that showcased my culture was incredibly meaningful.

Shin Ni at the Global Village event

Zhao Jin: Representing my department and sharing the story of our "Mechanical Power" practice project at the Tsinghua University Student Social Practice Annual Meeting was a meaningful moment and it encouraged more students to "get educated, grow their talents, and contribute" through social practice.

One sentence to send to your first-year self：

Ziqi: Don't overthink, act and try.

Tata: Having more confidence and less self-doubt.

Raphael: Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow.

Shin Ni: Be brave and pursue your dreams: Nothing is impossible until you try.  

Zhao Jin: Be bolder and more proactive in trying challenging things.

What about to your future self?

Ziqi: Have you found yourself?

Tata: It's okay to fall but always look back and remember why you started and how far you've come!

Raphael: Never stop learning.

Shin Ni: You've been doing great; remember to stay humble, listen to your heart, hold onto your passion, and continue your journey.

Zhao Jin: Believe in yourself and pursue the life that fits you best.

One piece of advice to Tsinghua students?

Ziqi: Believe in your possibilities.

Tata: Live your life to the fullest and seize the day! Good luck!!

Raphael: Cherish your time here and make the most of every opportunity.

Shin Ni: Congratulations on your accomplishments and best wishes for a bright and successful future!

Zhao Jin: Stay focused, cherish your time, and keep pushing forward!

To the Class of 2024, we celebrate your achievements and look forward to the incredible contributions you will make to the world. Congratulations on your graduation, and may your paths be filled with continued success and fulfillment.

Read more about THU

10 questions you need to know when applying to Tsinghua

Liu Jichen: Youth efforts in addressing zero hunger

Coffee & Tea: A cultural mix on Tsinghua campus

TsinghuaRen | Class of 2024: From day one to graduation

Writers: Nguyen Ha Linh, Grace Hii

Editor: Gillian Tang

Designer: Chen Hongxin

Reviewers: Chen Ken, Lin Yuan