Global Perspectives: SESE Freshmen Connect with International Faculty at Nanjing University

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Global Perspectives: SESE Freshmen Connect with International Faculty at Nanjing University - AppliedHE

Freshmen from the School of Earth Sciences and Engineering (SESE) engaged with international scholars during the “Exploring the Earth” lunch series on December 18, 2025. This event, co-hosted by SESE and Anbang College, aimed to promote interaction between new students and the School’s global academic community.

Panel of Experts

The panel included several experts, such as National High-Level Talent Professor Alexander Nemchin and Associate Professor Shohei Hattori, alongside postdoctoral researchers Das Souvik, Victor Ribeiro, and Alessandro Paolo Carniti. Attendees featured Yao Jing, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee of SESE; Xu Shuyi from the International Cooperation Affairs Office; Bai Ruorong, an undergraduate counselor; Wang Jin, an assistant counselor from Anbang College; and 28 freshmen from the Class of 2025 majoring in geology.

Opening Remarks

Yao Jing commenced the session by discussing advancements in the School’s internationalization efforts. She encouraged the Class of 2025 to develop an international perspective and enhance cross-cultural communication skills, which are essential for global competitiveness in geosciences.

Overview of Programs

Following Yao’s address, Xu Shuyi provided an overview of the School’s global partnerships and student mobility programs, encouraging students to take advantage of available resources for their academic development.

Faculty Presentations

The event featured faculty members presenting on various topics within their fields. Professor Alexander Nemchin spoke on cosmochemistry and geological research methods, while Associate Professor Shohei Hattori focused on stable isotope geochemical analysis. Dr. Das Souvik discussed frontier dynamics in earth material science and petrology, with Dr. Victor Ribeiro and Dr. Alessandro Paolo Carniti sharing insights into paleontology. These presentations aimed to familiarize students with current research trends globally and foster connections with faculty.

Interactive Segment

The lunch format allowed for an interactive question-and-answer segment, where students could discuss topics such as adapting to life in Nanjing, study strategies, and the role of artificial intelligence in earth sciences. Professor Nemchin expressed a preference for this conversational approach, highlighting the advantages of direct dialogue over traditional lecture formats.

Broader Strategy

The “Exploring the Earth” lunch series is part of SESE’s broader strategy to develop a world-class academic discipline by integrating international talent and enhancing collaborative networks. The establishment of the International Cooperation Affairs Office underscores the School’s commitment to fostering a diverse and innovative educational environment.