Today was university overload, super cool and inspiring! First stop, Remnin University. Another beautiful campus, but little did I know that we would be subject to another panel discussion from teachers, and then again in front of the students, yay for judgment! :) Those that were a part of this discussion with us did not speak English, so it was cool listening to a woman translate our lengthy responses to questions in Mandarin. I have to be honest, today was one of those days that I really appreciate having Ally as a science fair partner. We have somehow mastered the ability to answer questions in ways that both complement each other and make us sound like we know what we're doing at the same time (HA, joke's on you! lol). |
Next stop, Peking University. Top college in China, plus its an absolutely gorgeous campus!! We got to tour the campus for a while, and the only way I can describe it is traditional, but well-preserved. There was a large pond on campus, and our guide told us that if you dip your feet in the water of that pond, you'll do better on your college entry exams. So naturally, all of us (except Ken, who is already going to college when we get back to the States), took our shoes off and ran to the pond ASAP! We also had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to speak with Dr. Minn Hu, one of China's most respected female scientists, who focuses directly on environmental sciences/engineering. She was inspiring to say the least. Our group got a one-on-one presentation/discussion on China's (and the whole world's) problem with air pollution, why its a problem, and what locals and the government are proposing to combat this growing issue. Definitely a fascinating topic to discuss while sitting in the middle of Beijing. |
We finished off the evening with a visit (dinner included) to Mr. He Hu's new office building. Quick background: Hu won a large prize at the Intel ISEF in 2006 (or 2008?) and since then he's started his own company that combines fashion with new-age technology. For example, one of his newest products (set to be on the market in early September) is a fashionable wallet that you can also sit your smart phone on/inside it, and it will charge the phone wirelessly! Mommy, what kind of convincing do I need to persuade you to let me get one?? :D PS: I unfortunately have contracted a bit of a head cold, with a stuffy nose to boot. I'm super sorry if this entry is a bit lacking, I'm just feeling pretty under the weather. If you have any particular questions, then feel free to leave a comment and I'll take care of you :) Much love, Sally |