On September 7, the School of Materials Science and Engineering (SMSE) at Wuhan University of Technology warmly welcomed 635 undergraduate freshmen form across the country. Under the themeof “Fostering Knowledge and Forging Materials,” the 2024 orientation event concluded successfully thanks to the thoughtful planning of the School, the cooperation of faculty and students, and the contribution of 346 volunteers. With the new students settling into their dormitories, the campus was infused with youthful vitality and enthusiasm.
This year’s orientation took place at two sites—Nanhu and Jianhu Campuses—and was carried out in a smooth, organized, and joyful atmosphere. Shen Guofang, Deputy Party Secretary of the School, along with counselors from the Office of Student Affairs, arrived early to oversee final preparations. Volunteers and student leaders worked diligently to ensure a seamless process, assisting freshmen and their families, managing check-in procedures, and providing logistical support.
Showcasing Materials Science: Inheriting the Spirit, Embracing Innovation
To enhance professional recognition among new students, the School highlighted the discipline’s unique charm throughout the orientation. An orientation truss displayed key information and the SMSE’s academic programs and research achievements, drawing attention form curious freshmen and their parents. Each freshman’s name was creatively embedded into the School motto—Honoring Virtue, Fostering Knowledge, Exploring Matter, and Forging Materials—symbolizing the inheritance of the spirit of materials science.
Interactive exhibits, led by postgraduate volunteers, offered hands-on experiences with cutting-edge research. Award-winning student projects from competitions like Internet+and the Challenge Cupwere on display, featuring advanced technologies such as microfluidics, piezoelectric materials, and high-frequency communication substrates. The highlight of the exhibition—a nimble new-energy model car maneuvering through obstacles—captivated the audience and sparked excitement for future explorations in the field.
Instilling Cultural Identity: Orientation with a Deeper Meaning
“Today’s registration made me very happy! I was surprised to see such a rich welcome ceremony prepared by the School, and many cultural and commemorative products left a deep impression on me!” one student happily told the reporters at the registration point.
Far from a routine registration, this orientation served as a vibrant cultural initiation for the Class of 2024. Each student received a unique admission certificate titled “Giving You a Little Red Flower”, symbolizing best wishes for a joyful university experience. The red flower was fashioned from a lollipop, adding a sweet, memorable touch.
The orientation area also featured School publications such as Stars of Materials at Mafangshan Campus,Prominent Professors and Distinguished Supervisors, and Material-Cumulating Pavilion. These resources helped freshmen develop an early appreciation for the rich academic heritage of the School.
Volunteers also introduced the Soaring Materials Mindscultural badge system, encouraging students to engage in career planning, set ambitious goals, and strive for excellence in both academics and extracurricular pursuits.
Leadership Support and a Commitment to Holistic Growth
The orientation received strong support from university leaders. President Yang Zongkai visited Zhuoyuan Dormitory 2 to personally welcome Huang Siyu, a freshman enrolled in the 2024 Everest Program. He expressed high expectations for Huang, encouraging him to embrace his strengths, take full advantage of SMSE’s robust academic foundation, and grow into a future leader of national and industrial significance. School leaders, academic advisors, and counselors also visited dormitories to check on students’ well-being, listen to their concerns, and offer guidance for adapting to university life.
Throughout the day, university officials and heads of various departments visited the orientation sites to interact warmly with new students and their parents. They extended heartfelt appreciation to the hardworking student volunteers and expressed confidence in the promising future of the Class of 2024.
With the conclusion of the orientation activities, the Class of 2024 has officially embarked on their university journey. Guided by the care of the university and the support of the SMSE, these freshmen are stepping into a new chapter filled with curiosity, determination, and dreams. The School remains committed to fostering holistic growth, academic excellence, and innovation—empowering students to shine in their respective fields and contribute meaningfully to society.
Contributors:Kuang Xiaohai, Huang Tianyou
Photographers:Hao Jingwei, Wu Kangqi
Editor:Huang Tianyou
Reviewer:Shen Guofang
