The Haitang Festival at Tianjin University, which took place on April 5th, brought together students, alumni, and visitors from across the nation for a dynamic celebration. Also known as the Crabapple Blossom Festival, the event transformed the campus into a vibrant hub of activity, capturing the essence of the season and the ambitious aspirations of the participants under the theme "Blossoming Dreams."

Featuring diverse activities such as art exhibits, science and technology demonstrations, and club recruitment drives, the festival showcased the practical application of classroom ideas. No matter their interests, attendees could find something of interest.

During the festival, I had the privilege of speaking with a range of individuals whose stories illustrated the profound impact of this event. Each conversation revealed different aspects of the festival's influence on its attendees.

One of these individuals was ten-year-old Liu Wenqing, an aspiring Tianjin University student with a passion for technology. Her enthusiasm and ambitions highlighted the festival's role as a source of inspiration for young minds.

Alumni like Liu Lei, who completed a PhD in Chemical Engineering in 2017, returned to the alma mater to reconnect and share their experiences, combining nostalgia with valuable advice for current students.

Students like Zhang Qingcheng from the science popularization club took the opportunity to showcase their projects, highlighting the educational value of community engagement.

Yang Rui from the Bank of Communication provided a different perspective by emphasizing the importance of financial safety and educating attendees on anti-fraud measures, which was particularly relevant in the festive environment.

The festival also attracted multi-generational attendees, such as 75-year-old former accountant Sun Yourong, who attended with her daughter and granddaughter. Observing her granddaughter actively participating in university life brought back memories of her own college experience and emphasized the festival's role in fostering family and educational bonds.

One of the festival's highlights was the open day at the State Key Laboratory of Engines, where Professor Xie Hui and his students, including doctoral candidate Liu Guochen and master's students Han Xiao and Chen Yun, shared insights from their research. Professor Xie highlighted the societal impact of their work on technologies like autonomous driving, noting that parents brought their children to the event to inspire them to envision themselves as future university students. He believed that such exposure not only helps children achieve their dreams but also broadens their horizons and sets strong examples through the power of role models. Additionally, Professor Xie highlighted the importance of integrating various research fields, facilitating communication among students from different disciplines, and enhancing their skills in communication, presentation, and attention to detail.

As an international student, I found the Haitang Festival to be a profound testament to the universal value of knowledge and community spirit in academia. Each interaction deepened my appreciation for the festival's celebration of academic achievements and promotion of personal growth.

The Haitang Festival is more than just a seasonal celebration; it is a vibrant exhibition of curiosity and education that brings the aspirations of young visitors, the memories of alumni, and the efforts of current students to life. Rooted deeply in the university's traditions and looking towards the future, the festival continues to inspire and engage everyone involved, reminding us all of the joy of learning and growing together. It truly is a celebration that blooms as brightly as the crabapple trees that symbolize its spirit.

By student journalist Mroivili Faouzia from The Comoros islands

Editor: Eva Yin