To boost an international atmosphere within the Institute and enhance understanding and communication between Joint Educational Institute (JEI) students and University of Delaware (UD) faculty members, the SWUFE-UD Institute of Data Science at Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) organized a series of themed events titled “Delaware Dialogue - Conversations with UD Faculty” in Fall 2023.

Professor Andrew: The Key to Employment is the Ability to Learn New Things

The first session of “Delaware Dialogue” focused on the topic of “My Future Job.” In a relaxed chatting environment, Professor Andrew patiently listened to each student’s thoughts, offering advice and encouragement. During the discussion, he shared his experiences working at a well-known tech company in Silicon Valley and urged students to try new things and embrace learning. He emphasized that in today’s rapidly changing world, the ability to learn is essential for success.

Professor Bharat: Focus on the Present and Avoid Dwelling on the Past

In the second session, we invited Professor Bharat, an Indian teacher who was once an international student in the U.S., to provide guidance to JEI students considering studying abroad. He spoke about the importance of focus, suggesting that meditation is effective for improving concentration. When students expressed hesitation about their future studies, he advised them to research English literature in their chosen field and not to overly rely on university rankings. Ultimately, Professor Bharat encouraged everyone to focus on the present and move forward with determination.

Ms. Tongbin: Understanding Yourself from Multiple Perspectives

The third session of “Delaware Dialogue” connected closely with students’ college experiences. Ms. Tongbin discussed the various ways to understand oneself, emphasizing that one should not limit themselves to a single approach. She explored personality traits associated with different zodiac signs, analyzing them for the students. Her engaging talk demystified astrology and provided a deeper understanding of zodiac knowledge, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter.

The “Delaware Dialogue: Conversations with UD Faculty” series has concluded successfully. Through these three themed discussions, students gained valuable insights. The events not only bridged the gap between UD faculty and JEI students but also expanded the students' perspectives. The all-English in-depth conversations helped students clarify their future goals and aspirations.

Editor: ZHAO Xiaoyu

Proofreading: LI Zeyu