First Lecture of the New Semester

Professor Freddy Boey：
Innovating into the Future

During the "First Lecture of the Semester," Professor Freddy Boey encouraged students with three key messages. First, he emphasized the importance of cherishing time, noting that time is an irreversible resource. He advised students to make efficient use of their time, prepare in advance, and accumulate knowledge and skills to face future challenges. Second, he urged them to maintain curiosity and cultivate innovative thinking. By proactively exploring new ideas, students can drive their learning, broaden their horizons, and enhance their adaptability. Third, he stressed the need to master English, highlighting that English is not only an essential skill in today’s globalized world but also a crucial tool for enhancing academic achievement, boosting career competitiveness, fostering cultural exchange and understanding, and promoting lifelong learning.

Professor Boey remarked that CityU, as one of the most internationalized universities in the world, has established new global partnerships that offer exceptional learning and research opportunities for students and scholars alike. From east to west and north to south, CityU is expanding its global presence, ensuring that both students and faculty have access to the best opportunities to achieve their career aspirations while connecting top researchers with peers around the world. CityU is expanding regional collaborations at an exponential rate and will also provide CityU (Dongguan) with greater access to international cooperation channels and platforms.

During the "First Lecture of the Semester," when asked by a new undergraduate student, “What advice do you have for us, as we begin research and lab work at university?” Professor Freddy Boey responded:

"In addition to attending classes and completing coursework, students should make good use of their free time to explore research areas that interest them and join research teams. We will provide opportunities for research exchanges at CityU, and you will also have the chance to go to Hong Kong for exchange experiences. Likewise, CityU students will have the opportunity to come to CityU (Dongguan). We aim to create a two-way research exchange, enabling you to truly experience how scientific research is conducted in the lab."

Professor Boey’s speech not only sparked students' enthusiasm for engaging in innovative research but also provided clear direction for their studies and academic life in the new school year.