Research Postgraduate Summer School 2023: Unforgettable Bonds and Inspiring Insights

The Graduate School (GS) is thrilled to wrap up an exceptional and eventful two weeks of the Research Postgraduate (RPg) Summer School from 3 to 14 July 2023. This year, the PhD taster programme tailored for senior undergraduates and master’s students, was held physically on campus for the first time, leaving a lasting impact on the 50 participants. With a diverse range of activities and an emphasis on enhancing research skills, it was a summer filled with knowledge, friendship, and growth.

The journey kicked off with ice-breaking exercises and exciting team-building games, allowing participants to quickly get to know one another and forge a tight-knit community that enriched their experience during the course of the programme. To familiarise the attendees with our stunning buildings and the vigorous environment that surrounded them, they were taken on an energetic campus tour. This not only helped them navigate the facilities but also cultivated a sense of belonging and appreciation for the University.

At the opening ceremony, the Vice President (Research and Innovation), Professor Christopher Chao, warmly welcomed the participants, while Professor Jiannong Cao, the Dean of GS, along with Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of GS, introduced the framework of research postgraduate education and learning support available at PolyU. Their encouraging words motivated participants to make the most of this RPg Summer School, instilling a notion of pride and achievement.

A series of visits to different Departments, Schools, research labs and the Industrial Centre and the Library provided participants with hands-on exposure to cutting-edge facilities and resources that PolyU offers to realise their research ideas. They were able to witness groundbreaking work up close, igniting their passion for exploration and discovery.

One of the highlights was the invaluable insights and first-hand experience shared by current research students. They graciously spoke about their vibrant study life, rewarding overseas attachment, learnings from attending the PolyU Research Student Conference (PRSC), and provided application tips for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). Their stories shed light on the paths that lie ahead for prospective PhD students, inspiring them to pursue their dreams.

Another focal point of the programme was the arrangement of consultation sessions for participants to meet and seek advice from professors in their research areas interested. Participants also grasped this unique opportunity to have individual face-to-face meetings with potential supervisors throughout the event period for more in-depth discussion and the establishment of supervisory relationships. Some outstanding students were further nominated for a preliminary offer of admission to PhD programmes after the consultations.

Throughout the programme, various workshops and seminars were conducted to enhance research capabilities and personal enrichment, expanding the participants’ knowledge. These sessions were intellectually stimulating, empowering the attendees to think critically and innovate. With their newfound skills, participants enthusiastically presented their research proposals and demonstrated their potential in research studies at the end of the RPg Summer School.

The closing ceremony served as a wonderful conclusion and a moment of shared joy, as participants reflected on their transformative journey together. As we bid farewell to this year's RPg Summer School, we take immense pride in its success. The memories created, the bonds formed, and the skills acquired will undoubtedly shape the future of the participants. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making the RPg Summer School an extraordinary success!