Among the many outstanding achievements of students from Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU), two stand out: Chen Zhangjing, who has received offers from both the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, and Wang Xie, who has been admitted to Oxford. Both are top straight-A students in their respective programmes.
Chen Zhangjing
Class of 2025, Department of Mathematical Sciences
Offers: MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing, University of Oxford;
Part III (MMath/MASt), University of Cambridge
Wang Xie
Class of 2025, Department of Mathematical Sciences
Offer: MSc in Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing, University of Oxford
Chen has shown a strong interest and talent in mathematics since high school. She listed the Applied Mathematics Programme as her first choice when applying to BNBU and has consistently ranked first in her major since admission.
In her second year, Chen joined a project led by Dr Chen Xiaoyi. For her final-year project, she studied biological structure modelling and analysis under Dr Chen's guidance. "Unveiling the mysteries of life's structure through mathematics excites me immensely and reveals the profound beauty of the subject," Chen shared.
Chen Zhangjing's study notes
Wang, on the other hand, chose the Financial Mathematics Programme at BNBU, determined to become an interdisciplinary student.
In her third year, she participated in a research project supervised by Prof Nicolas Langrené, focusing on non–positive-definite kernel random Fourier features, which significantly deepened her understanding of scientific research.
Wang Xie's study notes
Though both are top students in their programmes, Chen and Wang share similar views on the importance of structuring knowledge. Each semester, Chen reviews previously learned material, integrates it with new content, and builds a systematic understanding. Wang agrees, noting that knowledge transfer and structured thinking are essential.
However, they differ slightly in their approaches to learning mathematics. Chen believes the key is to find passion and joy in the subject, while Wang emphasises the importance of digging into each question until it is fully understood and solved.
According to Prof Di Yana, Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences, both students demonstrate distinctive strengths: "Wang focuses on the practical application of mathematical tools and has rich internship experience, while Chen is noted for her exploratory spirit and keen sensitivity to emerging knowledge. They both have clear goals and well-defined plans, which they pursue with consistent effort."
Reflecting on her university experience, Chen said, "I've had many opportunities to explore my interests at BNBU. Every course here has benefited me greatly."
Wang added, "Here at BNBU, I can always get help from our patient and professional teachers."
Wang Xie acts as student teaching assistant on BNBU's Open Day in 2024
From MPRO
Reporter: Wang Ziling
Photos provided by the interviewees
Editor: Cecilia Yu
