Innovation fulfills dreams; ambition creates the future. On the morning of September 22, Xiangtan Institute of Technology held its 2024 freshman opening ceremony on the university track field. President Yuan Libin, the entire school leadership, key leaders from various colleges and departments, faculty members, and freshman advisors attended the event, welcoming 4,616 new students as they embarked on their university journey. Party Secretary Zhao Chan presided over the ceremony.

**01 Ceremony Begins: Vibrant Youth, Striving Upward**

Before the official ceremony, there were lively warm-up activities.

The song *The Brightest Star in the Night Sky* conveyed courage and perseverance with its inspiring melody. *Youthful China* was performed with vigor, reflecting the passionate spirit and ambition of the young generation. The recitations of *Ode to Changsha* and *Ode to Snow* captured the depth and confidence of great poetry. The music and dance video *Embracing the Future* highlighted the rich campus life at Xiangtan Institute of Technology, showing the university’s strong support for students’ creativity, innovation, and inspiration.

The ceremony formally began with the solemn flag-raising ceremony.

**02 Dialogue Between Faculty and Students: Unity of Knowledge and Action, Dreaming Through Innovation**

In a dialogue titled *Pioneers Achieve First, Innovators Grow Strong*, faculty, new students, and returning students shared their perspectives. New students expressed their aspirations and uncertainties about their four years of university life, while returning students and teachers spoke confidently about the university’s progress.

Faculty and senior student representatives, acting as “peers,” answered questions, shared insights, and introduced the university’s unique educational approach. They encouraged new students to strengthen themselves through study and practice and become confident, ambitious, courageous, and assertive young people of the new era.

A new student shared, “I am filled with anticipation for the next four years. I believe that each of us will grow through various experiences and find our passion, living up to the university’s motto of ‘Unity of Knowledge and Action, Striving for Excellence.’”

**03 Teacher’s Speech: Strive Forward, Achieve Greatness**

Associate Dean Ji Furong from the Business School, representing the faculty, addressed the new students, sharing three key principles for making the most of their university experience.

1. **Goals**: Goals guide us forward, illuminating new territories. Though goals may change as we grow, having a clear direction is vital for a meaningful university life.

2. **Resilience**: University life is full of challenges. Resilience is crucial, teaching us to grow in adversity and find opportunities in difficulty.

3. **Innovation**: Embrace creativity, think outside the box, and use ingenuity to brighten life. Whether participating in clubs, campus activities, or group projects, innovation brings extraordinary experiences and a fulfilling university life.

“May the Class of 2024 not only gain knowledge and skills here at Xiangtan Institute of Technology but also grow and transform into their best selves,” said Ji Furong.

**04 University’s Support: Awarding Badges, Distributing Scholarships**

As part of the tradition, President Yuan, along with Vice Presidents Zhong Zhiping and Dai Shugen, presented the Xiangtan Institute of Technology badge to the new student representatives, encouraging them to study diligently and grow into strong, capable individuals.

This year, the university has also set up a special scholarship fund for students from families affected by recent floods in Hainan, Xiangtan, and Yueyang. President Yuan awarded scholarships to these students, encouraging them to persevere and give back to society in the future.

**05 President’s Speech: Embrace Individuality, Pursue Innovation**

In his speech, President Yuan extended a warm welcome to the Class of 2024. He noted that this year marks a milestone for Xiangtan Institute of Technology, as the first graduating class moves on to careers nationwide, and the university enrolls 5,200 new students, breaking the 5,000-student mark for the first time.

President Yuan shared stories of Chairman Mao Zedong’s progress in his youth and Chairman Li Shufu of Geely Holding Group’s journey in innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to love their country and be ambitious, determined, and resilient.

He outlined three expectations for students in their university journey:

1. **Balance Holistic and Individual Growth**: Embrace well-rounded development while discovering personal strengths. Health is invaluable; students should make exercise a habit and strive for physical and mental well-being. While nurturing individual talents, students should also pursue unique abilities that set them apart.

2. **Combine Innovation with Professional Expertise**: Innovation is vital for a nation’s progress. The university is implementing educational reforms that prioritize student choice, giving students the freedom to explore. The project-based learning model supports students’ growth by encouraging imagination, critical thinking, and innovation.

3. **Develop an International Perspective**: Xiangtan Institute of Technology values international exchange, recently sending its first exchange student to Furtwangen University in Germany. The university will continue to support students’ global outlook and provide opportunities for international learning experiences, broadening their perspectives and enhancing their comprehensive skills.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. President Yuan engaged the students in a patriotic dialogue inspired by Zhang Boling’s “Three Questions on Patriotism” from Nankai University: “Are you Chinese?” “Yes!” “Do you love China?” “Yes!” “Do you want China to thrive?” “Yes!” The passionate responses filled the campus with a sense of pride and dedication.

President Yuan emphasized that these questions reflect historical, contemporary, and future responsibilities. As China advances on its path to modernization, he urged students to remember the “Three Questions on Patriotism” and align their aspirations with the nation’s progress.

Finally, President Yuan wished all the new students a fruitful journey at Xiangtan Institute of Technology, growing to contribute to society and their own futures.

The ceremony concluded with a rendition of *I Love You, China*. A new journey begins, as dreams become reality through perseverance. May the Class of 2024 remember today’s lessons, make the most of their youth, and encounter their best selves at Xiangtan Institute of Technology and beyond.