Zheng Dong, admitted to Tianjin University in 1988 and majoring Chemical Engineering, excelled both academically and professionally. He has worked for state-owned and commercial enterprises and entered the field of venture investment in 1994. For many years, Zheng Dong has supported Tianjin University, contributing to talent development and student aid. In 2010, he established the Zheng Dong Innovation Scholarship, assisting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. In 2014, he donated 50 million yuan for the university library’s construction. In 2024, Zheng Dong donated another 50 million yuan to establish a fund to enhance Tianjin University's faculty development.
In this interview, Zheng Dong shares his thoughts on his experiences as a student and professional, offers advice on youth development and entrepreneurship, and expresses his hopes for his alma mater’s future.
Educational Impact: Professional Knowledge, Leadership, and Truth-Seeking
Zheng Dong credits his education at Tianjin University with providing him three main benefits. First, professional knowledge, which gave him a rational, objective mindset critical for making investment decisions. Second, student leadership roles, which developed his courage, confidence, and perseverance, especially during challenging times. Lastly, the university motto, "seeking truth from facts," became his guiding principle, shaping his work ethic and decision-making. He stresses the importance of practical thinking, urging others to apply first-principle logic, which focuses on fundamental facts and continuous improvement.
Zheng believes that abilities are built through consistent positive habits and self-discipline, much of which stems from his time at Tianjin University. The knowledge and skills he gained there significantly shaped his objective mindset, benefiting him in the field of venture investment.
Advice for Youth: Direction, Perseverance, and Practice
For young people, Zheng Dong emphasizes three key areas. First, choosing the right direction is essential, as chasing short-term trends can lead to distractions. A long-term perspective is necessary for success. Second, mental toughness and perseverance are critical, as building a career typically requires at least eight to ten years of effort. Finally, he stresses the importance of practice—successful entrepreneurs are those who not only think but also act, continuously improving through experience.
Zheng Dong adds that young people must cultivate the ability to turn small improvements into major breakthroughs over time. He believes that work experience helps develop long-term vision and contributes to making informed career choices.
Entrepreneurship: Innovation and Independent Thinking
Zheng Dong defines true entrepreneurship as an innovative process. Simply repeating existing models rarely leads to success. He believes that innovation, from 0 to 1, is key to entrepreneurship, though scaling up from 1 to 100 is also valuable. He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to assess their passion, ensure their entrepreneurial direction aligns with societal trends, and develop the capacity for independent, long-term thinking. Once committed, entrepreneurs must remain determined and face challenges with resolve.
Philanthropy and the Power of Knowledge
Every year, when awarding scholarships, Zheng Dong reflects on the story of Sun Wukong’s journey to learn from Master Puti. He draws a parallel between students leaving their hometowns to study at university and Sun Wukong’s search for self-cultivation. Zheng believes that self-reflection and focusing on one’s strengths are crucial to success, aligning with his intention when establishing the Innovation Scholarship.
The Zheng Dong Innovation Scholarship, in place for 14 years, has supported over 2,000 students. Many of these students founded the “Zheng Dong Love Organization”, engaging in public service activities such as teaching support and volunteering, embodying the power of knowledge and the transmission of spirit.
Supporting Tianjin University and Looking Forward
As an outstanding alumnus, Zheng Dong continues to support Tianjin University. His focus on basic science and technological innovation aligns with his belief that talent cultivation and scientific advancement are fundamental to national progress. To support Tianjin University in attracting top talent and advancing its academic standing, Zheng donated an additional 50 million yuan in 2024.
Zheng views public welfare as part of his career and lifelong mission, expressing his desire to continue giving back to his alma mater and society. He hopes Tianjin University will strengthen its interdisciplinary programs and attract more top talent, contributing to the university’s continued success.
By: Zheng Xinxiangzi
Editor: Qin Mian
