Dear Faculty, guests, my fellow students, relatives and friends,

Good afternoon. My name is LIU Yichang, a fresh graduate of Master of Finance of School of Economics and Management, Tsinghua University. I am glad to have the opportunity to speak here as a representative of master graduates.

If I ask a question to all the classmates present, what does "SEM" mean to you? Everyone's answer is different, because each of us have a unique memory of SEM, but I think all these memories have one thing in common, that is full of “happiness". Today, I have a brief talk about the sense of happiness that SEM has brought to me in light of my own experience and feelings.

First of all, this sense of happiness is based on the satisfaction of learning knowledge and endeavoring exploration. SEM has saw both my undergraduate and graduate life, and I am lucky to experience two different training models: Liberal Education and Professional Education. In my opinion, the liberal education for undergraduate study puts its weight on solid and sound training; and the "professional education" is thorough and prospective. There are outstanding Tsinghua alumni from all walks of life to give us lectures, the "double tutors” from both the academic circle and the industry to give us instructions, and overseas exchanges and dual degree programs to broaden our horizons. This constant learning and exploration enriches and satisfies us and motivates us to move forward.

Second, this happiness is reflected in the sense of achievement by keeping trying and discovering oneself. I once was confused about whether I should choose to enter the academic field or to enter the industry. Therefore, I went to my teachers for help. Under their instruction, I began to have a preliminary understanding of academic research. At the same time, I actively participated in research projects, got access to substantial academic subjects and learned the practical methods to solve problems. On the other hand, I started my internship during winter holiday. I remember that when I worked in the merger & acquisition group of China International Capital Corporation, the tasks with high intensity and fast pace taught me how to learn quickly and how to solve the problem quickly, and taught me effective methods of communication and team cooperation. After careful consideration, I finally decided to go to the University of Minnesota to continue my studies in accounting and pursue academic research. It is through this continuous attempt that we gradually find out what we love and what we are good at and thus to shape a better self.

In addition, this sense of happiness is also reflected in the communication with people and the acquisition of wisdom. The school provides us with many resources, and one of the most important resources is people. I remember President Qian’s inculcation: "learn from the good and keep learning" and "human before talent”. I remember that Mr. Lou Jiwei came to Weilun hall to explain Premier Zhu Rongji’s fiscal reforms for us. I also had the honor of receiving the vice president of the Spanish Olympic Organizing Committee and listening to her about the Olympic spirit and higher education in Europe. I also remember that my teachers working hard on the platform and sowing wisdom, letting us grow up in the shower of knowledge. I'd like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thankfulness to all of them.

Time flies. Our life in Tsinghua SEM is coming to an end. Graduation is not an end, but a grand new beginning. I believe in the future, that each of us will shoulder on our dreams with this full of "happiness" and our mission of “serving the society”. Ride the wind and waves, and move forward!

Happy graduation！ Thank you all!

Translator: Xia Bingcong, 

Editor: Master's Programs Office