"I hope people can view me as a well-rounded person rather than a mere top student," says PENG Zijun, a senior from School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC).

For over three consecutive years, PENG has maintained the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) among fellow Chemistry majors in his grade. With a major in Chemistry and a minor in Computer Science and Technology, he also balances his roles as a researcher and as Member of Chairman Group of Student Union. It is no surprise that PENG was awarded "GUO Moruo Scholarship", the highest honor for students in USTC, on May 16, 2024.

Photo of PENG (Image by USTC)

Cross-disciplinary learner: Chemistry, Computer, and more

PENG's interest in Chemistry is rooted in his high school. He has studied for the Chemistry Olympics and learned a lot more than his peers, which boosted his learning in university. "I am particularly drawn to cross-disciplinary studies. Chemistry incorporates theories in Mathematics and Physics. Meanwhile, it also has numerous applications closely related to production and daily life," PENG explains enthusiastically.

PENG is now digging deeper into Physical Chemistry and doing research on thermal catalysis, which involves designing various conditions and catalysts to make chemical reactions more environmentally friendly. During his undergraduate period, he has co-authored several papers in top journals and plans to continue related research for his PhD.

PENG developed a keen interest in computers since childhood, which motivated him to pursue a minor degree in Computer Science and Technology. The more he learns, the more fascinated he becomes. As an example, he describes the fun in drawing the graphs in his graduation thesis by programming. Most chemists use commercial graphing software like OriginLab, while PENG used Python, a popular programming language. "It feels so great, being able to control every single detail with my own code! Even though I spent a couple of extra hours on it, it was worthwhile."

PENG also shares an anecdote about computerization of a card game he invented in primary school. He handed it in as a class project, and this experience inspired him to establish a students' computing contest.

Photo of PENG (Image by USTC)

Student work: Gaining from devotion

PENG not only proceeds with his own research and studies, but also tries to help others with his knowledge. As an active member in Student Union, he has organized numerous academic lectures and student activities for undergraduates in USTC. Beyond routine tasks, he has also introduced innovations.

Inspired by the game he programmed for his class project, PENG wished that more students can enjoy computer programming, regardless of professionalism. After significant preparation, PENG started a contest named Competition of Creative Code Composition. The first session was successfully held last year with many students' active participation. "Working for Student Union gave me a sense of fulfillment. It also allowed me to meet more people and greatly improved my communication skills," he reflects.

Apart from working for Student Union, PENG has served as a teaching assistant as well. For three semesters, he has helped younger students with their homework and tests. "When being with them, I see my younger self. Teaching is something I really enjoy, which allows me to review the knowledge I once learned," says PENG.    

PENG anticipating the social practice of summer vocation (Image from USTC)

Time management: Taking steps early

One may be amazed how PENG can handle so many things at the same time. His secret for time management is planning in advance. He makes an analogy between making revision plans and organizing student activities, emphasizing the importance of starting early and executing the plan. "Five consecutive days of exams do seem daunting, but with a month of preparation beforehand, you can definitely manage it." he advises.

Just as everybody else, PENG also sets aside time for entertainment, such as going jogging, playing Go and hanging out with friends. However, he relaxes only when it doesn't interfere with his overall goals. "I tell myself, I need to become better every day. This is what keeps me moving forward all these years."

The future: Exploring possibilities

When asked about his future plans, PENG replies that this fall he is going to Peking University for his Ph.D. , but for the further future, he hasn't made up his mind yet.

PENG says he wants to find out more about himself before making the final decision. "There surely will be many uncertainties, but I will do my best every day, explore my possibilities and see how the future unfolds."

(Written by LIU Qinyan, Edited by WU Yuyang, USTC News Center)