“Four people in my family over three generations have studied at Tianjin University. Today, as I go back here, I feel familiar, encouraged and deeply honored.” said Chai Shujing, a new part-time doctoral student of TJU’s School of Marine Science and Technology.

“My grandpa graduated from Tianjin University, with a degree in Civil Engineering. My father graduated with his Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree from TJU’s School of Mechanical Engineering. And my wife graduated with a degree in Software Engineering,” said Chai Shujing with great pride.

22 years ago, when Chai Shujing was nine years old, he took a photo with his father, who was in Master’s gown, in front of TJU’s Building No. 9. Since then, this photo became a seed taking root in his heart. “I remembered at an early age that the lake at Tianjin University was big and the pavilion was lovely,” Chai Shujing recalled. “It’s at that time that I set my mind on studying in my father’s alma mater. Therefore, TJU was my first choice of my college application after the college entrance examination. I decided to pursue my bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctoral degree here.”

Three generations of four TJUers in a family shows their deep love for Tianjin University. “The university motto of seeking truth from facts and the university’s tradition are my belief,” he said. During his study as master’s student at Tianjin University, Chai Shujing received honorary titles of “Tianjin University Outstanding Graduate”, “Top 10 Outstanding Youth” and “Science and Technology Talent”, among others. Chai Shujing has inspired himself to forge ahead in his capacity as a TJU student over the years. Now, he works in the Institute of Seawater Desalination and Multipurpose Utilization, MNR (Tianjin). To further his study in utilizing seawater chemical resources, he returned to his alma mater to become a new part-time doctoral student, continuing to follow TJU’s glorious tradition.

“My son is five years old now. If he is lucky to attend Tianjin University after he grows up in the future, our family will gather together under the Newton Apple Tree in front of the University’s building No. 9, and take a group photo named The TJU Family. That will be great.” Chai Shujing said.

By Liang Weihui

Editor: Sun Xiaofang