Peking University, August 8, 2023: Graduation, a momentous college-wide event, unites the Class of 2023 in celebration of their academic achievements. For many, graduation holds immense significance as it marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and personal growth. Not only does this mark the end of their chapter at PKU, but it also commences a new journey in life. To the Class of 2023, a hearty congratulations is extended! Let us now hear the heartfelt words of our fellow Pekingers as they bid farewell to the place they affectionately call Yanyuan.
     
Sun Mengze (Mora) 孙萌泽

China
PhD, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering

1. What’s your biggest takeaway? 

For me, Peking University is more than just a top institution, but also holds a special place as my unique spiritual home. It’s challenging to pick a single greatest takeaway from my time there, as I’ve gained immensely in various ways. PKU has provided us with a global learning and exchange platform, which has enriched our academic knowledge and broadened our global vision.


The most significant takeaway for me is the cultivation of free thinking and an independent spirit. Whether in academics or life, staying true to ourselves and thinking independently is crucial. It may be challenging at times, but persevering leads to personal growth, inner calm, and peace.

My second greatest takeaway is the precious bonds of like-minded friends. Over the five years of shared study and life, I’ve met diverse people and formed encouraging friendships. Whenever I'm stumped in my research or feeling down, spending time with these friends by the Weiming Lake river banks or over a hotpot lifts my spirits and fills me with strength. These cherished connections warm my heart and will remain invaluable throughout my life. 

2. What do you like best about PKU? 

PKU is a school that cultivates an independent and free mind, and nurtures an open and inclusive heart. This will be our guiding lights in life, leading us towards inner peace.


3. Any goals to achieve in life? 

Though it may seem ambitious, my aspiration is to become a teacher at PKU. I hope to experience the joy that comes from nurturing students, progressing, and growing alongside them.


4. Any words for PKU? 

I'll forever cherish the nurturing I received from my alma mater, and I sincerely wish PKU all the best in continuing in cultivating more leading talents across various industries and continuing its journey to become a world-class university.


5. Any words for your juniors? 

While you are young, pursue your dreams and your passions. Have the courage to soar and persevere, without the fear of failure or criticism. Each experience you encounter will be unique and hold immense value in shaping your life.  

Shivute Ndemwaadha Natangwe 沈万田

Namibia
Master, School of Government

1. What’s your biggest takeaway? 

My biggest takeaway from China and Peking University is experiencing a society filled with peace, love, and friendship, and witnessing impressive advanced technology that made learning easier. I have alsoformed international friendships, and had the chance to appreciate the rich history and culture of China. These experiences have greatly enriched my personal growth.


2. What do you like best about PKU? 

What I like best about PKU is the vastness of the campus, the diversity of choices it offers, and the serene environment. Weiming Lake is my favourite relief spot, but the football pitch holds special memories as it's where I made good friends and created great moments.


3. Any goals to achieve in life? 

In life, my goal is to fulfil my dream of becoming a farmer and contributing to my country's self-sufficiency in food production. My Chinese name signifies the vastness of fertile land, and it has reignited my passion for farming.
 

4. Any words for PKU? 

PKU is a prestigious institution with a rich history and imparts generations of wisdom. Being among the top universities in China and the world, I feel fortunate to have experienced its warm and welcoming atmosphere.


 
5. Any words for your juniors? 

To my juniors, I want to emphasize the value of youth. Cherish this time and give your best effort in everything you do. Youth is a precious gift that should not be taken for granted, so make the most of it.
 
Cheong Jia Yun Brenda 张加耘

Singapore
Undergraduate, Yuanpei College

1. What’s your biggest takeaway? 

I think my time at Peking University has made me understand better what “you’ll never know till you try” means. I had the opportunity to learn from and work with professors, teachers and classmates who are absolutely brilliant. It’s often easy for international students to belittle oneself in comparison, but sometimes you just haven’t seen the worth inherent to you. Ultimately, I’ve come to believe we’re all students of life with something to contribute to the world, even if it’s small, and Peking University is a place that uncovers the gem that is you. 


2. What do you like best about PKU? 

I enjoy the beautiful campus of Yanyuan the most. As the seasons change, the scenery of Weiming Lake and the surrounding gardens change with day and night. Blossoms and peonies in spring, ducklings in summer, ginkgo in autumn and snow in winter are some natural sights that come to mind. I found solace in the aesthetic experiences that these sceneries have given me. 

3. Any goals to achieve in life? 

To be frank, I am full of uncertainty about the future, and about my future. But one goal I would sought to achieve is to use what I have to be of help to others, while respecting my own existence. 


4. Any words for PKU? 

As a student who has completed more than half of her undergraduate studies online, I am especially grateful for the time I have had on campus. Confining to the latter, I hope that more international students can have the opportunity to experience the campus for themselves. Overall, I am thankful for the resources and knowledge I have gained from the University, and wish her greater success in the future. This is goodbye but not farewell. 


5. Any words for your juniors? 

An education at Peking University can be fun and exciting, curated to your interests and strengths. I hope you can stay curious and unafraid; have the courage to explore beyond your comfort zone, and be impressed by what you may find! Also, don’t be shy to seek assistance when you need it!


Bounthanh Hayden Oudomsouk董天雨

Laos
Undergraduate, School of Life Sciences

1. What’s your biggest takeaway? 

To quote OneRepublic’s song I Lived:
“I owned every second that this world could give,
I saw so many places,
The things that I did.
Yeah, with every broken bone,
I swear I lived.
Hope that you spend your days,
But they all add up.
And when that sun goes down,
Hope you raise your cup,
I wish that I could witness
All your joy and all your pain.
But until my moment comes, I'll say I did it all.”


2. What do you like best about PKU? 

The best aspect of PKU that I appreciate is the presence of intelligent and hardworking peers surrounding me. Among them are many prodigies from around the world. Though I may feel humble in their midst, being in this inspiring environment always ignites new inspiration and excitement within me.

3. Any goals to achieve in life? 

So far, I have set my sights on pursuing a master's degree in Singapore, a decision I believe that will open doors to numerous opportunities in Southeast Asia. My aspiration is to foster strong collaborations between Southeast Asia and China in all aspects. Additionally, if there are job opportunities available in China, I would love to come back as well.

4. Any words for PKU? 

Wish you all the best! I hope I will have the chance to come back to PKU to celebrate all of its birthdays on 4th May every year!

5. Any words for your juniors? 

Carpe Diem! 
 
With that, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the extraordinary Class of 2023 for reaching this monumental milestone of graduation! Your journey at Peking University has been nothing short of remarkable, and your hard work and dedication have brought you to this significant achievement. May your futures be filled with success, fulfillment, and a profound sense of purpose. As you embark on new adventures, know that you will forever be a part of the Yanyuan family, and your alma mater will always be here to support and celebrate your achievements. Here's to a bright and promising future, filled with endless possibilities and boundless potential!

Read also: Graduation@PKU: The end is only a new beginning (Part I)

Written and interviewed by: Vissly Chan
Edited by: Shi Xinyao
Photos by: Mora, Shivute Ndemwaadha Natangwe, Cheong Jia Yun Brenda, Bounthanh Hayden Oudomsouk