SHEN Che

Overseas learning unlocked: SHEN Che (Bachelor of Science - Data Science) spent an outbound exchange semester at Cornell University, USA. He came back inspired by new research approaches and a deeper appreciation for collaborative problem solving.

My exchange semester at Cornell University was a period of significant personal and academic transformation, deeply marked by the experience of cultural differences. I was immediately immersed in the vibrant American campus culture, from the intense school sports games to the diverse student club activities, all of which fostered a strong sense of community and belonging that was distinct from my home institution.

Academically, I experienced substantial growth in my learning capabilities. The dynamic classroom environment, where students actively challenged professors, encouraged me to engage more deeply with complex subjects in Data Science and Statistics. The rigorous schedule, including numerous “prelim” exams and demanding weekly assignments, honed my time management skills and accelerated my learning pace. Collaborating on hands-on projects significantly strengthened my technical skills in mathematics, statistics, and computer science project management. Furthermore, interacting with peers from various backgrounds provided me with invaluable American perspectives on the DS/CS industry, enhancing my international outlook.

This experience also greatly bolstered my adaptability. Balancing a challenging academic load with participation in research communities and cultural events required resilience and flexibility, and also cultivated them. The entire journey, culminating in a memorable gathering with fellow exchange students, was incredibly rewarding.