All 2024 freshmen commenced their new journey at the “Forest University” together as they gathered in the Optics Valley Gymnasium for the 2024 convocations on September 11 and 12.

First held was the convocation for undergraduate freshmen on September 11.

Following China’s national anthem, participants learned about the achievements of HUST in its 72-year history through a video.

Zhang Guangjun, Chair of the University Committee, attached HUST emblem pins to the student representatives. The rest of the freshmen enrolled in 2024 put on the emblem pins, marking their identity as part of the HUST community.

In his keynote speech “Stand Tall and Strive for Excellence,” HUST President You Zheng urged the new HUSTers to forge ahead with HUST’s motto—Virtue, Erudition, Truth, Innovation, uphold the University’s culture of excellence, and foster their competence and resilience for a new era.

Professor Qin Leihua, Vice Dean of the School of Computer Science and Technology, encouraged the students to quickly adapt, study diligently, and plan their university life wisely. He hoped that the new students will align their personal growth with the societal development and pursue their dreams with determination.

Cheers of excitement filled the venue as Chang Yani, Olympic champion in women’s synchronized diving, unexpectedly took the stage as a representative for senior students. Sharing her story of winning gold with her teammate and receiving praise from the President of China, the undergraduate from the School of Physical Education encouraged new students to stay passionate, strive for their goals, and pursue excellence with dedication.

Representing the freshmen was Wang Cong, a newly enrolled undergraduate student from the School of Basic Medicine. He called on the students to pursue their dreams, study with determination, and contribute to China's modernization.

On September 12, the convocation for HUST’s new graduate students enrolled in 2024 was held.

Zhang Guangjun, Chair of the University Committee, attached HUST emblem pins to the new students’ representatives.

Academician You Zheng, President of the University, expressed his hope in his welcome speech that students would achieve their goals at HUST through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Professor Yu Longjiang from the School of Life Science and Technology, a China Exemplary Educator, urged participants to dream big, act boldly, and strive hard at HUST to keep up with the new era.

Representing the senior students was Li Zonglin from School of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering. The graduate council member shared a story about courage, urging his classmates to pursue excellence and make their own future at the university.

As a representative of the new-enrolled graduates, Zhang Yang from the School of Marxism inspired his peers to embrace their dreams, persistence, and open-mindedness as they embark on the new journey.

The convocations concluded with participants chanting the University Anthem, pledging to “unite and advance for the future of HUST.”

Written by: Zhang Shiyu

Edited by: Chang Wen, Peng Yumeng