WANG Yantao: Sailing the Seas of Education—the Graduate Students' Union as Our Vessel

Established five years ago in harmony with SOE’s own development pulse, the Graduate Students' Union of SOE has navigated its journey under the principles of “Service, Leadership, Responsibility.” Through four dedicated pathways—cultural heritage, academic innovation, practical education, and rights advocacy—it has woven the energy of student life into the ongoing story of SOE's growth.

Cultural Heritage: Keeping the Flame Alive

From summer recruitment camps to orientation icebreakers, the Union crafts the SOE's crucial “first impression.” Through carefully designed immersive activities, we turn initial distances into connections filled with laughter. By building a dynamic new media network—where images, videos, and short stories converge—we capture student insights and extend the reach of our cultural spirit.

Ice-breaking activity at the Summer Camp

Academic Leadership: Illuminating Minds

For five consecutive years, the “Distinguished Lecture Series” has thrived, supported by the Union in roles ranging from guest coordination to live-stream management, engaging audiences exceeding 100,000. At SFEE, an academic conference, our members facilitate paper collections, provide simultaneous interpretation, and curate poster exhibitions. Here, graduate students gain an international platform, allowing global audiences to hear the educational voice of our community.

Volunteers at SFEE 2024

Practical Education: Bringing Knowledge to Life

Guided by faculty here, our members embark on summer volunteer teaching programs in regions like Yunnan, delivering not only lessons but also hope. Beyond academic instruction, they nurture children’s holistic development through creative extracurricular activities, sparking curiosity and resilience. These experiences deepen members’ own understanding of educational equity and reinforce their sense of social responsibility.

Summer Volunteer Teaching Program

Rights and Services: Extending a Caring Hand

At the heart of our mission is serving both faculty and students. We organize interactive forums that foster dialogue around academic and career growth. To enrich campus life, we also stage cultural and sporting events—from art showcases to badminton matches—creating spaces where talents shine, wellness is promoted, and community bonds are strengthened.

"Sunshine Project" New Student Welcome Event

Though young, the Union has, with each successive team, cultivated a distinct identity and gathered meaningful experience. Motivated by shared belief and vibrant energy, we continue to contribute to SOE’s evolution and to the wider landscape of education.

As we look to the future, the Union remains steadfast in its role: to uphold tradition, stimulate academic exchange, engage in hands-on practice, and respond to the needs of our community—ready to write the next chapter together.

Written by WANG Yantao

Proofread and Edited by CHEN Ruoxi