On the afternoon of June 21, the 2024 Graduate Farewell Ceremony of the Department of Educational Psychology was successfully held. Under the theme "Teaching You to Excel, Passing the Torch with Heart", the event was graced by the presence of distinguished faculty members:

Professor Yang Xiangdong (Head of Department), Professor Zhou Jiaxian, Associate Professor Gu Xin (Secretary of the Faculty-Student Party Branch), Associate Professor Jiang Yi (Deputy Head of Department), Associate Professor Zheng Chanjin, Associate Professor Zhang Jing, Associate Professor Ma Shufeng, and Teacher Xiao Yue.

The ceremony was hosted by Shi Haoran, a 2023 Master’s student, and was actively attended by all students of the department.

Messages from the Faculty

Speech by Professor Yang Xiangdong

At the beginning of the ceremony, Professor Yang Xiangdong delivered a farewell speech. He first expressed his sincere gratitude to all the dedicated teachers, counselors, and parents, and extended warm congratulations to the graduating students.

Quoting renowned journalist Zhou Yijun of Phoenix TV and writer Zhang Lixian, Professor Yang emphasized that sensitivity and empathy define the upper limit of human potential. He shared three profound moments in life to send off the graduates:

Red fruits in Jiuzhaigou: Reminding everyone to cherish life, accept the unpredictability of the world, pursue dreams without hesitation, and never wait.

His cat, Ollie: Symbolizing the need to slow down, listen to one’s inner voice, and stay true to one’s original aspirations.

Birds resting by the Suzhou River: Representing the simple beauty in life, stressing that inner fulfillment, freedom, and happiness are what truly matter.

In conclusion, Professor Yang urged the graduates to cherish life, stay true to themselves, not be driven by external utilitarianism, and pursue genuine happiness. Citing Professor Xiang Biao, he encouraged students to care for specific people and embrace love, drawing strength from real-life connections. Finally, he wished all graduates a promising future and a life full of joy.

Speech by Associate Professor Gu Xin

Next, Associate Professor Gu Xin extended his warm congratulations and best wishes to the graduates, expressing immense pride in their academic and personal achievements. He reviewed their unforgettable time on campus: from diligent studying in classrooms to late nights in the laboratories, all their hard work and progress had added a brilliant chapter to the Department of Educational Psychology.

Professor Gu shared three key takeaways:

He praised the graduates’ outstanding academic accomplishments, including publishing high-level papers and presenting at international conferences, bringing honor to the department.

He thanked them for their service and contributions to the Party Branch and the department, especially during the establishment and development of the branch.

He recalled the arduous COVID-19 period, commending the students for their perseverance in studies and community service despite the difficulties.

He concluded with three hopes for the graduates:

Brave exploration: Become leaders in future education and outstanding alumni of ECNU.

Apply knowledge: Integrate educational psychology into future work and life, maintaining passion for the discipline.

Persevere through setbacks: Face challenges bravely, continuously surpass oneself, and achieve greater success.

He wished them a bright future and reminded them that East China Normal University and the Department of Educational Psychology will always be their harbor and strong support.

Speech by Associate Professor Zhang Jing

Associate Professor Zhang Jing, the counselor for the 2024 cohort, then took the stage. Congratulating the graduates, she fondly recalled her first experience serving as a counselor. Amid laughter, she humorously shared stories of each graduate’s academic and personal growth over the past three years, witnessing their transformation from immaturity to maturity, from fragility to resilience, as they found love and embarked on their careers.

In closing, she encouraged the graduates to keep striving in life. Although it was time to part, the memories of the Department of Educational Psychology would forever remain in their hearts.

Speeches by Student Representatives

Speech by Dr. Zhang Zhicong

Dr. Zhang Zhicong shared his academic journey and reflections. He thanked the teachers, parents, and fellow students present. Upon entering the program, he was deeply impressed by the excellence of the faculty, which strengthened his belief that he could also excel under their guidance.

He emphasized the power of "belief", stating that trust in oneself and others is the key to success. He described the challenging process of learning new technical skills such as Python and MATLAB during his doctoral studies, skills that greatly empowered his research. He stressed that learning is a lifelong journey that requires perseverance despite difficulties.

Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of teamwork, noting that academic success is rarely achieved alone; collaboration boosts efficiency. He encouraged everyone to support each other and progress together. Finally, he advised students to seize opportunities and act promptly, not fearing difficulties. He thanked all those who had helped him and urged everyone to keep striving, believe in themselves and their teams, and bravely pursue their goals.

Speech by Mr. Wang Zhi 

Wang Zhi shared his heartfelt thoughts. He mentioned attending the recent graduation ceremony of the faculty, where he felt the profound spirit of patriotism, responsibility, and courage. A simple sentence from a staff member resonated deeply with him: "No matter how busy you are, don’t forget to eat." He realized that while pursuing success, one must prioritize happiness and self-care.

Recalling the warm years in the Department of Educational Psychology, he reminisced about his three years of study and life: meeting roommates, gaining knowledge in class, supporting each other during the pandemic, and enjoying the beautiful campus scenery together. He stated that no matter where life takes them, the experience at the Department of Educational Psychology will always be cherished. He looked forward to reuniting and sharing new achievements and touching stories in the future!

Graduation Awards & Recognition

The ceremony proceeded with the Graduation Awards Session. The department presented honorary certificates and special gifts to graduates who had made outstanding contributions in student leadership, academic research, and social work.

Outstanding Student Leader Award: Li Shiyuan, Shang KaiyuePresented by Associate Professor Jiang Yi

Outstanding Ph.D. Research Award: Zhang Zhicong, Luo HaoPresented by Associate Professor Zhang Jing

Outstanding Master’s Research Award: Fan Shuming, Ke Lingyun, Zhu Xun, Zhang WenqingPresented by Associate Professor Zheng Chanjin

Excellent Research Practice Award: Xu Yuqing, Li Xuan, Xiang BingkunPresented by Associate Professor Ma Shufeng

Excellent Social Practice Award: Wang Zhi, Jin Zeliang, Gao YutingPresented by Teacher Xiao Yue

Performances

Harmonica Solo: FarewellXu Peiyi, a 2022 Master’s student, performed the classic song Farewell on harmonica, expressing sincere affection and best wishes to the graduates.

Handpan Performance: Hidden MountainFinally, Master’s graduate Xu Yuqing performed Hidden Mountain on the handpan. Accompanied by the ethereal and soothing melody, the entire audience was immersed in a peaceful and healing atmosphere.

Wonderful Moments

The 2024 Graduate Farewell Ceremony concluded successfully in an atmosphere of warmth, emotion, and blessing.

Carrying gratitude and love for the Department of Educational Psychology, the graduates will embark on their new life journeys. It is believed that they will continue to pursue excellence, grow to excel, and pass the torch with heart!