This summer, the Class of 2023 will graduate from Guangdong Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (GTIIT). They have big dreams and thirst for knowledge; they keep their eyes on the stars, but feet on the ground. The young "Aspirants" grow from GTIIT to a wider world. Let's follow the interview series of the graduates from the Class of 2023 to know their stories.

“When I learned I was accepted by Cornell University in March of this year, I was ecstatic. But I never expected that just five days later I would receive an offer from the University of Pennsylvania as well!” Wang Chenhao, a 2019 graduate in GTIIT Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) program, shared his excitement upon receiving his application results, saying, "My grades were not the best, so I didn’t anticipate that I could be accepted by Ivy League universities." Reflecting on his experience, he expressed gratitude for his decision to attend GTIIT four years ago, which he referred to as the best decision at that time.

High School: 

Jiangsu Provincial Zhenjiang No.1 High School

Program: 

Materials Science and Engineering

Offers:

University of Pennsylvania

Cornell University

University of California, San Diego

Delft University of Technology

National University of Singapore

Rice University

Award: 

2022-2023 Dean’s List

Pursue passions at GTIIT

For Wang, GTIIT was a fortuitous opportunity when he filled out his Gaokao preference four years ago. He learned from his uncle, who was involved in forestry research, that Israel was the birthplace of drip irrigation and had a strong technological foundation. And GTIIT, as the Technion’s China campus, was in Shantou, which piqued Chenhao's interest. He channeled his disappointment from Gaokao into motivation, making GTIIT a new starting point and exploring based on his interests.

“I experimented with various metal models and 3D printing when in my high school, and also had a basic understanding of metal and semiconductor materials. That’s why I chose MSE.” 

“I don’t think MSE is a dull subject – in fact, it has board prospect. Semiconductor materials, specifically, play a critical role in the information industry, with their applications spanning across areas including batteries, electronic devices, and more,” said Wang.

Wang mentioned that the instructors at GTIIT were excellent – they would explain textbook knowledge with vivid examples, and guide students to conduct experiments. This teaching approach, in which theory and practice complement one other, has been beneficial to him. Dr. Fabian Rios, in particular, has impressed Wang because of his clear and well-organized lectures and easy-to-understand blackboard writing.

Research is fulfilling

In his sophomore year, Wang joined Dr. Qi Yuanshen’s research team, conducting experiments on the electrical pulse and mechanical properties of alloys. The advanced experimental facilities and strong research atmosphere allowed him to immerse himself in his passion and explore his potential. “I was quite interested in metal materials and had accumulated some knowledge in this field since high school. During a conversation with Dr. Qi, he encouraged me to conduct this experiment.”

Wang and Dr. Qi (left)

At GTIIT, students are able to utilize the abundant experimental resources to explore and learn through trial and error. For Wang, reflecting on the attribution of experimental failures also matters. When the experiment didn’t work in his first attempt, he investigated the factors by comparing relevant papers and experiments, and found that the low voltage was the cause. By making slight adjustments in the thickness, he received a nice outcome in his subsequent try.

According to Wang, engaging in scientific research is both painful and joyful. “While it may be mundane and involves going over extensive literature and doing repetitive experiments, this experience of delving into the unknowns is enjoyable. Having nice results and coming with my own findings after reading many papers can provide a sense of accomplishment.”

Dream it, Do it.

Wang relishes his university life. “I am the third class of GTers. The university was still young when I enrolled. It is, in fact, small but awesome, with rich resources that make it stand out. Aside from studying, we can enjoy the excellent sports facilities, such as the swimming pool and climbing wall. Teachers are also very dedicated, creating a friendly atmosphere that fosters learning.” In the break from studies, Wang would go trekking with friends for fitness. He is also an avid traveler who has visited widely.

Recalling his experience of applying for further studies, Wang got two suggestions, “First and foremost, go for it. Failing doesn’t matter. Anything is achievable if you dare to ‘dream it’ and work hard to ‘do it’. And second, work hard and enhance your academic performance. Pass standardized tests including the IELTS and TOEFL as early as possible. These will obtain additional future opportunities for you.”

Come fall season in 2023, Wang is all set to embark on an exciting journey towards pursuing a master's degree in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania, carving out a new chapter in life, post his time at GTIIT. Let's cheer him on as he chases his ambitions, taking his expertise to the next level!

Text: GTIIT News & Public Affairs

Photos: Wang Chenhao