The Department of Industrial Engineering welcomed the 2025 international cohort at the beginning of the new academic year. More than 50 students from diverse backgrounds, including Indonesia, Germany, Italy, Thailand, Brazil, France, and other countries, have embarked on their academic journey with the department.

Group photo of 2025 cohort of international students

On August 28, new students completed registration at the department. Ms. Rui Zhang from the Teaching Affairs Office, the International Master’s Program team, and senior student volunteers assisted with qualification review, distributed welcome packages, and guided the newcomers as they settled into campus life.

Registration day at the department

On August 29, they participated in the University Opening Ceremony. The event included a symbolic presentation of university badges to new students, along with speeches by leaders, faculty, and students. President Luming Li, in his address “Carrying Forward the Spirit of Self-Strengthening, composing a Glorious Chapter of Youth,” encouraged students to embrace innovation, openness, and responsibility in the face of global challenges. Faculty and student speakers reflected on interdisciplinary research, the pursuit of excellence, and the duty of youth to serve society, underscoring Tsinghua’s values of excellence, dedication, and global vision.

Students at the university opening ceremony

Following the ceremony, students attended the Department of Industrial Engineering Opening Ceremony, hosted by Asso. Prof. Xiwen Bai, Head of the Graduate Student Affairs Group. Asso. Prof. Chen Wang, Deputy Dean for Teaching, introduced the department’s history and the five core elements of “New Industrial Engineering,” while Ms. Haitao Wang, Supervisor of the International Master’s Programs, outlined the international programs. Chinese student representative Haomiao Sun encouraged peers to grow through challenges. The Council Chair, Asso. Prof. Lefei Li, highlighted academic strengths and the importance of communication and adaptability, and Prof. Jingshan Li, the dean, addressed students online, stressing Industrial Engineering’s role as both “a science of problem-solving and an art of creation” and underscoring academic integrity. The event concluded with a Q&A on study, research, and career development.

Department Opening Ceremony Speeches

Q&A Session

On August 30, students joined a campus tour that introduced them to several of Tsinghua’s iconic landmarks. The tour offered an opportunity to capture memorable moments and become familiar with the campus that will be their home during their studies.

Campus tour highlights

The orientation weeks provide essential guidance and practical support, including the opening ceremonies, as well as seminars, company visits, and cross-cultural activities that broaden perspectives and foster connections among students from different backgrounds. The Department is committed to supporting students’ academic development and personal growth throughout their journey at Tsinghua, and their diverse backgrounds and international perspectives will bring fresh energy and ideas to the department.

Writer: Rui LU

Photographers: William, Mamun, Juan, Luyao WANG

Reviewers: Liang MA, Lefei LI