SCUPI

On September 25, 2024, the Alumni Association of the Sichuan University –  Pittsburgh Institute (SCUPI) invited Christopher Jin, an outstanding graduate of the Class of 2022, to return to campus to share his insights on the cutting-edge of 4D printing technology and how to choose a path for further education with his younger peers. The session was filled with frequent interactions and a lively atmosphere.

Christopher Sharing His Experiences

Christopher was admitted to the Sichuan University – Pittsburgh Institute in 2018, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Currently, he is pursuing a doctoral degree in the Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and serves as a visiting student at Southern University of Science and Technology and Shenzhen University. He also acts as an alumni mentor for the 2024-2025 academic year at SCUPI.

In the Sharing Session

At the sharing session, Christopher first introduced 4D printing technology to the students, clarifying its differences from 3D printing and sharing his experiences exploring 4D printing technology in the laboratory at The Chinese University of Hong Kong and the current research topics he is working on.

Secondly, starting from his own experiences, Christopher shared his academic advancement journey with the students, reminding them to make early preparations. He emphasized the importance of choosing a graduate supervisor during further studies and provided practical suggestions for students who are interested in pursuing a doctoral degree on how to contact potential supervisors. He also deeply analyzed the key points of applying for a doctoral degree in the United States, Hong Kong, and the mainland, as well as the respective advantages of pursuing a doctoral degree in each place.

In addition, Christopher provided detailed and in-depth information on applying for a doctoral degree in Hong Kong, including the rich benefits for doctoral students and the key considerations of Hong Kong universities in selecting doctoral students. He particularly proposed the concept of “Happy Research” and shared his research experiences and unique insights during his doctoral studies, enjoying the process and traveling around the world to attend academic conferences, providing valuable references for students planning their academic paths.

Q&A Session with Current Students

At the end of the sharing session, Christopher engaged in an in-depth and lively exchange with the students present on hot topics such as the choice of further education institutions and directions. Through face-to-face communication, Christopher patiently answered the students’ questions and shared his insights. With this, the sharing session came to a successful conclusion.

Group Photo with Professor and Staff

On the day when alumnus Christopher Jin returned to his alma mater, he not only provided guidance to current students on cutting-edge academic knowledge and strategies for further studies, but also visited the Institution’s new building and shared old memories with his former professors, vividly demonstrating the warm bond between alumni and their alma mater.