In an era where knowledge is power, two UIC graduates of the class of 2024, Huang Yin and Luo Haojie, have leveraged their education to carve out distinct paths further to Imperial College London.
Upon graduating from her high school, Huang Yin embarked on her academic journey in the Food Science and Technology Programme at UIC’s Faculty of Science and Technology. "Its interdisciplinary curriculum solidifies my theoretical foundation," she said, "and being taught in English gave me an edge when applying for graduate studies."
Huang Yin
Encouraged by her teachers and senior students, Huang kept exploring and located her research interests. She is particularly grateful to Prof Xu Baojun, Head of the Department of Life Sciences at UIC, who taught her the importance of persistence and rationality in scientific research.
Huang Yin (right) with Prof Xu Baojun (left) at her Final Year Project Exhibition
Her final year project focused on obesity and metabolic disorders—conditions that many of her friends and family members struggled with. For Huang, this wasn't just an academic interest but also a sense of social responsibility. This project played a significant role in securing admission into Imperial College London, where she hopes to combine basic medical research with clinical applications.
In future, Huang aims to pursue a career in healthcare, working in the research and development of medicines and nutraceuticals and using the power of science to improve people's health.
When entering university, Luo Haojie chose the Finance Programme at UIC's Faculty of Business and Management. This programme offers courses covering finance principles and areas related to climate change and carbon emissions, which were pivotal in shaping his career goals.
Luo Haojie
His focus lies on how manufacturing industries deal with pollutant emissions. "I believe environmental friendliness will be the trend, and I hope my cross-disciplinary knowledge can assist traditional industry transformation," he said.
During his time at UIC, Luo gained substantial experience in sustainable corporate development through internships, which enhanced his understanding of environmental friendliness and sustainability concepts.
Luo Haojie at UIC
Looking back, Luo cherishes his four years spent here, which cultivated his lifelong learning habits and brought him friendship and romance. "These experiences are invaluable assets propelling me further into the future," he said.
From MPRO
Reporter: Cecilia Yu
Photos provided by the interviewees
Editor: Deen He
