President Wai, President Chen, teachers, parents, distinguished guests and fellow graduates,
Good afternoon, a warm welcome to all our proud guests, esteemed faculty, dedicated staff, wonderful peers, beloved family, cherished friends, and most importantly the Class of 2024! Today, it is truly an honour for me, Lai Huiqian, to be here and represent the graduates from the Master Programme of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Media Concentration.
As we stepped onto the UIC campus for the first time, many of us felt uncertain about the paths ahead. However, with engaging lectures, challenging assignments, and continuous support from our professors, we began to carve out our course. It wasn't simply about absorbing information but about participating in discussions that ignited our passions and united us in our pursuit of knowledge. These experiences not only opened doors for us but also fuelled my ambition to pursue a PhD, highlighting the impact of communication and artificial intelligence that have profoundly shaped our society.
UIC has been more than just a place to study; it has been a real game-changer for us. From delving into the essence of media's impact on society with the Lazarsfeld model to cracking the code of algorithms and data, our studies here were not just about getting a degree - they were about making waves.
Let's applaud our faculty! They didn't just teach me; they were my mentors. They pushed me to overcome challenges and secure Ph.D. offers from two top (R1) universities in the US. I ended up accepting a full scholarship from Syracuse University. This achievement speaks volumes, not only about my efforts but also about the outstanding education and supportive environment at the AIDM programme and UIC's graduate school.
As we dive into new chapters, whether it's in graduate schools, the job market, or innovative startups, let's carry the invaluable lessons from UIC with us. Let's keep learning, challenging the norm, and holding onto those dreams tight. Remember what Peter Drucker said, "The best way to predict the future is to create it."
So, let's bravely reach for the stars. Best of luck to all of us. And thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who has been part of this wonderful journey!
