Robot Dogs Bowing, Ink Painting Exhibition, Dance and Music Club Shows...

On September 6, the campus of Xiangtan Institute of Technology was abuzz with a diverse orientation event featuring technology, culture, and art. Over 4,000 new freshmen from across the country gathered to embark on a new chapter in their lives.

President's Speech: Empowering Student Growth and Succes

As the sun rose brightly, the university held a grand flag-raising ceremony at 7 a.m. Faculty, staff, and orientation volunteers honored the national flag, singing the national anthem as it rose majestically. Under the flag, President Yuan Libin expressed his gratitude and respect for the dedicated efforts of faculty and students, warmly welcoming the Class of 2024.

He stated that the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC National Congress has provided clear direction for reforming talent cultivation mechanisms. As an applied undergraduate institution, Xiangtan Institute of Technology will thoroughly study and implement the plenary spirit, actively advance CFAP's innovative talent cultivation, and enhance high-quality educational development, thus empowering each student’s growth and success.

A Campus Full of New Light: Meeting Logic and New Beginnings

Today, Xiangtan Institute of Technology welcomed new students with bright banners, welcoming posters, and a vibrant atmosphere. Along the main road, students could see the grand campus library, green lawns, and lively sports fields — the fresh university scene unfolding before them.

The adorable mascot "Xiangli," numerous photo zones, and the picturesque campus instantly captivated the newcomers, prompting many to capture memories on their phones. Each corner became a focus for students’ cameras, capturing their excitement and laying the foundation for precious future memories.

“Come over here for a robot show!” Following the crowd, students gathered in the orientation hall, where rows of intelligent robots and robotic dogs greeted them with traditional Chinese “bowing” gestures. Yang Deting, an Automation major from the School of Automotive Engineering, introduced the intelligent machines on display, such as the “Roban Medium Robot” and “Aelos Bionic Humanoid Robot,” both award-winning entries from the 2024 China Artificial Intelligence Robot Competition.

"This showcase is a way to welcome the new students to our university and attract those interested in robotics to explore and join us. We hope to spark their curiosity!" Yang said.

The university's student art troupe also prepared a vibrant “summer special” live show for the new freshmen. With youthful dances and captivating music, senior students showcased their talents, making the newcomers even more excited for the upcoming university life.

Orientation Day: Welcoming the Freshmen with Warmth

At the subway entrance, campus gate, dormitories, and registration points, Xiangtan Institute of Technology set up welcoming reception areas and luggage storage services to ensure students could proceed with ease.

At the orientation building, new students could complete the registration process seamlessly through one-stop services, including remote registration points, a green channel, fee collection, welcome packs, military training gear purchase, and a consultation area. Additionally, the university arranged for a rest area for parents and provided complimentary ice water and herbal tea to keep everyone cool.

The university also prepared “Welcome Packs” for the freshmen, containing a canvas bag with the school emblem, customized notebooks, and practical items like acrylic keychains, warmly greeting the students. The military training gear could be purchased in designated areas, with volunteers readily assisting new students to prepare for the upcoming training.

Around the campus, 120 volunteers were stationed to assist with inquiries, guide students, manage order, transport materials, and provide other support. The volunteers welcomed each new student with thoughtful service, enthusiastic answers, and patient explanations.

Meanwhile, the university increased security presence on campus. A safety team composed of the Security Office, local police, and student cadets ensured a safe and orderly orientation process, directing the flow of vehicles as parents dropped off their children.

Voices of Faculty and Students: Setting Sail for New Adventures

“I'm very happy to be here at Xiangtan Institute of Technology!” said Lin Jiangmiao, an Automation major freshman from Shaoyang. Accompanied by her parents, she expressed confidence in studying her major and making like-minded friends on campus.

“I feel that Xiangtan Institute of Technology is very responsible and caring. The orientation arrangements were organized and orderly. I believe my child will gain valuable knowledge and achieve their dreams here,” Lin’s mother shared.

Ma Anqi, who traveled alone from Xinjiang to study Tourism Management, said, “Xiangtan Institute of Technology is a promising platform. I hope to acquire solid knowledge and skills here, become a well-rounded student, and pursue graduate studies to broaden my horizons and lay a solid foundation for my future.”

Liu Yang, a freshman in Information and Computing Science from Ningxiang, was accompanied by his grandparents. He remarked, “The campus is new and spacious, and the facilities are great. The seniors have been very welcoming, and I’m excited to pursue my interest in this field. I hope to pass the CET-4 and CET-6 exams and eventually pursue a master’s degree.”

“It’s an honor to serve as a class assistant at orientation,” said Xiao Yaqun from Software Class 2401 and Li Sheng from Class 2402. “New students are welcome to ask us any questions. Meeting and helping them is a rewarding experience. Their gratitude is the best affirmation of our service. We wish all new students a wonderful journey at Xiangtan Institute of Technology!”

Vice Dean Xu Mei of Tanzhou College shared, “Given the high temperatures, we streamlined the registration process. New students can go directly to their dorms, and faculty and assistants will reach out to them in the dorms to help them settle in. We warmly welcome the Class of 2024 to our Tanzhou College family. We hope they bring their creativity and enthusiasm, participate in various learning activities, and showcase their youthful energy on campus!”

Mountains and rivers lie beneath our feet,

New chapters unfold with countless volumes,

Life is like an open field, a racing track ahead.

We hope that in the days to come,

Students at Xiangtan Institute of Technology will embark on a new journey,

Writing their own magnificent chapters on this fertile ground.