Master's Degree from the University of Melbourne

Choosing UIC was the most judicious decision I've ever made, and the unwavering support from my parents only solidified my choice. Much of my time at UIC was spent in the library and study rooms, as the absence of traditional classes and homeroom teachers granted students greater independence and freedom in managing their academic lives. My four years at UIC can truly be described as transformative; various presentations, group projects, assignments, and deadlines posed as challenges, and only after overcoming each hurdle and looking back to my former self do I realize how profoundly I've changed. My gratitude for UIC is enduring, and I strive to grow, hoping for continued excellence at UIC. The university provided me with an exceptional platform, and the experiences over those four years have made me more confident and self-reliant, serving as a perfect foundation and transition for my decision to pursue graduate studies abroad.

University of California, Santa Barbara - Master's Degree

Currently Pursuing a Doctorate at the University of Tennessee, USA

Unconsciously, I find myself on the verge of leaving UIC after four years, and the thought fills me with reluctance. I have become accustomed to life at UIC—the anticipation before course selection, the busyness throughout the semester, the tension and anxiety before final exams, and the fulfilling plans for winter and summer breaks after exams. Over these four years, I have personally witnessed the rapid development of UIC, while UIC has also borne witness to every step of my growth. I have seen the school devote all its efforts to providing us with the finest resources and the best environment for personal development. My deepest gratitude goes out to all the staff and fellow students at UIC, especially those in the Environmental Science department—your companionship has granted me the most unforgettable university experience and cherished memories!

Master's from University College London

UIC's English-only teaching model initially posed a challenge for me at the beginning of the term. However, I quickly adapted and embraced the British and American style of full English instruction, laying a solid foundation for my future studies abroad. Beyond the core courses, there were numerous general and elective courses that allowed us to explore and learn a wide array of topics. UIC's holistic approach cultivated our leadership, teamwork, study, and interpersonal skills, enabling us to effectively solve and manage problems both individually and within a team.

The campus offered a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, such as lectures, forums, seminars, sports events, tug-of-war, cheerleading, dragon and lion dances, rugby matches, dances, plays, formal dinners, and a myriad of club activities. These provided students with countless platforms and opportunities to experience and engage, showcase themselves, discover their interests, and build a wider network. Although the university was not large, and the student body was not extensive, relationships seemed innately close. Even among strangers, familiarity developed quickly, with high levels of trust and responsibility.

The curriculum of Environmental Science covers a broad spectrum as it is an interdisciplinary field, aiming to instill in students a comprehensive understanding of the natural and human environment, the origins of environmental issues, and methods and techniques for analyzing and solving them. It also focuses on honing risk assessment skills and fostering a sustainable environmental mindset. Beyond classroom learning, the school frequently organized field trips and visits to compare theoretical knowledge with practical applications, study best practices and innovations, and discuss and analyze problematic cases, offering insights and suggestions. Furthermore, the practical sessions in biology and chemistry labs familiarized us with the use of basic reagents and instruments, materials testing and identification, as well as data processing and analysis, laying a strong foundation for future research. I am deeply grateful for all that my alma mater has provided, without which my current achievements would not have been possible.

Master's from Wageningen University, Netherlands

Pursuing a Ph.D. in Ecoscience at Aarhus University, Denmark

In the year of my college entrance exams, my family and I carefully chose UIC, believing that regardless of how well professional knowledge was grasped, at the very least, my English proficiency would improve. After four years, not only did my English skills advance, but I also developed an international thinking approach and broadened my perspective significantly. At UIC, most of our teachers hail from abroad or Hong Kong, and many of my friends come from middle-class families. The school offers numerous opportunities for international exchange, allowing us to see, hear, and experience much more widely than most. UIC serves as a springboard that connects China with the international realm. Once we gather sufficient strength, it empowers us to soar higher and see further.

My chosen field of study—Environmental Science—is an inherently interdisciplinary discipline. Upon enrollment, one can focus on various directions, leaning either towards humanities (such as environmental management) or towards sciences (such as ecology, water/air/soil science). The program may be modest in size, but every teacher is remarkably dedicated, and the academic rigor has greatly benefited me.

Life at UIC is demanding, the academic atmosphere is intense, and the competition is quite fierce, which is immensely character-building. Under the high pressure, UIC students might cry out for relief, but after graduation, they silently appreciate this invaluable experience.

Master's from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Pursuing a Doctorate in Geography and the Environment at the University of Texas at Austin

Three words might aptly encapsulate my experiences in the ENVS program: “Interdisciplinarity”—I acquired a wealth of cross-disciplinary knowledge and skills in environmental science, enabling me to further my studies in ecology while also nurturing an interest in areas like geographic information systems; “Interaction”—I received invaluable assistance from the delightful and dedicated faculty, who are both professional and responsible mentors, imparting on me a growing sense of rigor through assignments, exams, and internships; “Cohesion”—ENVS is a cohesive family. Despite conducting numerous correlation analyses, it is the “correlation” between classmates that is most cherished. The friendships forged over four years have significantly influenced my subsequent choices and development.

Master's from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Employed at the Integrated Conservation Center of the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Almost two months of graduate life have passed without my realizing it. Transitioning from the evergreen city of Zhuhai to Ann Arbor, where snow graces half the year, the constant has been the intense academic environment and the abundance of coursework. My four years at UIC taught me how to manage and utilize my time effectively, allowing me to seamlessly adapt to the pace of graduate studies in the United States. The theoretical knowledge and practical skills I gained during my undergraduate years have proven immensely beneficial in various graduate courses. There is an undeniable satisfaction in excelling in group assignments, sometimes even when my American peers are unsure. I am deeply grateful to UIC for equipping me with such strength over four years; every effort I invested there holds a profound significance for me now.

Master’s in Environmental Science from Wageningen University

Pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

My four years of study at UIC have etched three keywords into my identity: strict, professional, and proficient. UIC's curriculum instilled the principle of rigor in me from the very first year. I learned not only to write with precise and disciplined language but also to think rigorously, fostering an objective, comprehensive, and critical understanding of matters, which has greatly benefited both my life and studies. The specialized courses offered by the Environmental Science Program provided us with a solid foundation of knowledge, progressively deepening our understanding and equipping our minds with an abundance of specialized expertise. Under the high standards and stringent requirements set by the professors, my professional knowledge accumulated, empowering me to pursue further studies. Throughout my four years at UIC, whether studying on campus or participating in international exchanges, I have had numerous opportunities to challenge myself and acquire invaluable experiences.

Master’s in Environmental Science and Management at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Currently employed in the Science and Technology Management Office at the South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment

Reflecting on my four years at UIC, I find them to have been thoroughly fulfilling. Although each semester was relatively brief, the intensity of the learning tasks was significant. By the third and fourth years, spending long hours in the library had become a daily routine, and every group assignment and class presentation deepened my understanding of teamwork. I am grateful to UIC for ensuring I did not squander these four years of university and to the Environmental Science faculty for their constant support with coursework, enabling me to complete my undergraduate studies successfully.

The third year was the most academically demanding, yet it taught me how to manage time and self-regulate effectively. The curriculum largely consisted of specialized courses, and the Environmental Science professors were excellent, encouraging students to ask questions and engage in dialogue. Whenever we had doubts, we could approach them directly after class or arrange discussions via email. In the second semester of the third year, each professor provided different research topics for us to choose from, yet students could also propose their projects for discussion. This marked the beginning of an extensive journey into research, experimentation, literature review, and paper writing. I believe this was a period of rediscovery, which clarified my thoughts regarding the choice of specialization for graduate studies.

Master's Degree Candidate at the National University of Singapore

I found the Environmental Science curriculum to be remarkably diverse, encompassing aspects of biology, chemistry, engineering management, and more, along with engaging course experiments. We had the opportunity to choose classes aligned with our interests. Over the four years at UIC, I grew increasingly fond of this field, gaining numerous opportunities for personal enhancement and growth. The training in specialized courses, project design, teamwork, experiment planning, analysis, and reporting greatly aided my future studies and internships. Environmental Science also offered extensive field trips and practical experiences, allowing us to connect with nature intimately—visiting organic farms, wastewater treatment plants, and more—while engaging in in-depth discussions with industry professionals. There was ample interaction between faculty and students within the Environmental Science program. Beyond addressing academic queries, professors were eager to share their research experiences and career paths, providing advice; they also offered plenty of opportunities for internships and international exchange programs that broadened our perspectives and crystallized my future educational and career plans.

Master's Degree Candidate at the University of Edinburgh

The four years of study at UIC taught me not only knowledge but also the ability to learn and think independently, as well as how to perceive and address issues. UIC's unique teaching model and environment made these years particularly enriching. The succession of high-intensity academic tasks honed my stress resilience while teaching me how to manage and balance my time, achieving efficiency in studies without neglecting achievements in extracurricular activities. Moreover, UIC developed our teamwork abilities, English bilingual communication skills, and leadership capabilities. The rich array of extracurricular experiences precipitated many pivotal turning points in my life; joining the rugby team introduced me to a new passion and athletic skill set. The time spent with my Environmental Science cohort was a mix of challenges and triumphs. Beyond textbook knowledge, Environmental Science required students to possess strong independent thinking and practical skills. These four years laid a solid foundation, paving the way for my future graduate studies. I am sincerely grateful to the teachers and fellow students in the Environmental Science program.

Master's Degree Candidate in Safety, Health, and Environmental Technology, National University of Singapore

The curriculum in Environmental Science provided us with knowledge across various specialties, laying a solid foundation for my advancement and development in related fields, and offering direction as well. Laboratory courses and field studies integrated theory with practice, while the diverse project reports, group collaborations, and experiments honed my ability for independent thought and teamwork. The teachers were also eager to offer guidance on our studies and future development. Furthermore, UIC's holistic education made my university life both fulfilling and engaging, and my participation in overseas exchange programs proved greatly rewarding.

Master's Degree Candidate in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Johns Hopkins University

During my four years at UIC, the school and teachers equipped me with ample knowledge reserves while fostering a cross-cultural and international perspective and a multifaceted mode of thinking. They also honed my spirit and willpower, teaching me the importance of self-reliance and self-discipline, as well as the significance of teamwork. Stepping into the university was half a step into society, enabling me to clarify my self-positioning and future aspirations. I am fortunate that my Diamond Group members, refined over these years, became not only exceptional classmates with whom I shared academic synergy and support but also trustworthy friends who were there for me in everyday life. I am grateful for the brief yet beautiful memories they have given me.

Master's Degree Candidate in Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore

These four years at UIC and in the field of Environmental Science have been a period of growth amid challenges and opportunities. UIC is a place brimming with challenges, but it equally instills in me the ability to seize opportunities. As an interdisciplinary field, Environmental Science offers a diverse range of courses and a wealth of choices for my future development. In my sophomore year, I had the opportunity to work as a student assistant for the Environmental Science graduation experiments. Influenced by exemplary predecessors and enriched by a deeper understanding of my major, this opportunity endowed me with a clear goal for pursuing graduate studies and the motivation to strive for it. During my junior year, I was offered an internship opportunity on campus in the field of environmental monitoring. This experience further affirmed my interests and clarified the specific direction for my graduate studies. UIC is a place rich in academic atmosphere, yet it is by no means a place where one only learns academically. Over these four years, in addition to significantly enhancing my study skills, I have deeply felt the unity and warmth within the Environmental Science community, inspiring me to become someone who brings warmth to others. To this end, I joined the ranks of peer mentors, helping younger students adapt to UIC and understand the Environmental Science major, while personally transitioning from being a witness to this warmth to a bearer of it.

Master's Degree Candidate in Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UIC offers environmental science students a professional and enriching academic setting. Foremost is the department's robust faculty: distinguished professors and instructors from around the world with diverse educational backgrounds have already provided me, during my undergraduate years, with a broad academic perspective. The Environmental Science program boasts its own set of laboratories and cutting-edge analytical instruments, adequately supporting research needs in areas like environmental monitoring and engineering, ensuring that my research projects progress smoothly and reach high standards of completion. During my Final Year Project (FYP), I had my own experimental workstation, allowing me to fully showcase my capabilities. At UIC, I freely engaged in discussions with professors, sparking creativity and expanding my thoughts; many of my imaginative experimental ideas were clarified and realized through these conversations. Simultaneously, by participating in various laboratory project groups, I gradually explored my interests and the paths I wish to pursue further. In my senior year, I independently completed my own graduation project, from designing the experimental process to data collection and analysis. I was delighted to first knock on the door of independent research under the guidance and mentorship of my professors.

MSc Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions, University College London, UK

PhD, UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources

UIC's university life is rich and fulfilling. It allows me to improve in learning and grow personally. There were different challenges each semester which trained me to handle multiple tasks at the same time and to withstand stress. UIC has given me courage and encouragement to grow progressively. The university years pass so quickly and I wish to thank everyone I have met along the way.

Master in Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore

I decided to come to UIC when I was in my second year of high school, and I made the right choice. I grew tremendously in the four years of university. Assignments consisting of quizzes, term tests and group projects came one after another. Summer breaks were scheduled with internships, summer programs, IELTS and GRE courses. The intense learning was a unique experience in UIC which was fulfilling. The courses were taught in English and this gave us better English proficiency comparing to the graduates of other universities in Mainland China. With better English, we have the advantage in going for further studies abroad as well as in future employment.

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field with many pathways for future development. The four years of study has laid a good foundation for my master’s research. I feel proud to be in the big family of ENVS. My coursemates were friendly and cooperative. The teachers were very good too. There were close interactions between teachers and students. The environment was just great.

Master degree, Wageningen University

The four years in UIC passed so quickly. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the teachers, coursemates and friends who have given me help. They are precious assets to me. Environmental science is a subject with great potential. Environmental issues will be given more attention in future economic development. I am very optimistic about the future of environmental science graduates.

No matter what you study, the most important thing is interest and persistence. Although environmental science has heavy workloads every semester, I believe we will gain much by completing the tasks meticulously. Grades should not be the only target of learning though they are a proof of learning. We should learn as much as possible and undergraduate study is not the end of learning. There is more for us to explore and discover. Let's continue the journey.

Master's Degree Candidate in Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore

These four years at UIC and in the field of Environmental Science have been a period of growth amid challenges and opportunities. UIC is a place brimming with challenges, but it equally instills in me the ability to seize opportunities. As an interdisciplinary field, Environmental Science offers a diverse range of courses and a wealth of choices for my future development. In my sophomore year, I had the opportunity to work as a student assistant for the Environmental Science graduation experiments. Influenced by exemplary predecessors and enriched by a deeper understanding of my major, this opportunity endowed me with a clear goal for pursuing graduate studies and the motivation to strive for it. During my junior year, I was offered an internship opportunity on campus in the field of environmental monitoring. This experience further affirmed my interests and clarified the specific direction for my graduate studies. UIC is a place rich in academic atmosphere, yet it is by no means a place where one only learns academically. Over these four years, in addition to significantly enhancing my study skills, I have deeply felt the unity and warmth within the Environmental Science community, inspiring me to become someone who brings warmth to others. To this end, I joined the ranks of peer mentors, helping younger students adapt to UIC and understand the Environmental Science major, while personally transitioning from being a witness to this warmth to a bearer of it.

Master's Degree Candidate in Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UIC offers environmental science students a professional and enriching academic setting. Foremost is the department's robust faculty: distinguished professors and instructors from around the world with diverse educational backgrounds have already provided me, during my undergraduate years, with a broad academic perspective. The Environmental Science program boasts its own set of laboratories and cutting-edge analytical instruments, adequately supporting research needs in areas like environmental monitoring and engineering, ensuring that my research projects progress smoothly and reach high standards of completion. During my Final Year Project (FYP), I had my own experimental workstation, allowing me to fully showcase my capabilities. At UIC, I freely engaged in discussions with professors, sparking creativity and expanding my thoughts; many of my imaginative experimental ideas were clarified and realized through these conversations. Simultaneously, by participating in various laboratory project groups, I gradually explored my interests and the paths I wish to pursue further. In my senior year, I independently completed my own graduation project, from designing the experimental process to data collection and analysis. I was delighted to first knock on the door of independent research under the guidance and mentorship of my professors.

Master's Degree Candidate in Safety, Health, and Environmental Technology, National University of Singapore

The curriculum in Environmental Science provided us with knowledge across various specialties, laying a solid foundation for my advancement and development in related fields, and offering direction as well. Laboratory courses and field studies integrated theory with practice, while the diverse project reports, group collaborations, and experiments honed my ability for independent thought and teamwork. The teachers were also eager to offer guidance on our studies and future development. Furthermore, UIC's holistic education made my university life both fulfilling and engaging, and my participation in overseas exchange programs proved greatly rewarding.

Master's Degree Candidate in Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Johns Hopkins University

During my four years at UIC, the school and teachers equipped me with ample knowledge reserves while fostering a cross-cultural and international perspective and a multifaceted mode of thinking. They also honed my spirit and willpower, teaching me the importance of self-reliance and self-discipline, as well as the significance of teamwork. Stepping into the university was half a step into society, enabling me to clarify my self-positioning and future aspirations. I am fortunate that my Diamond Group members, refined over these years, became not only exceptional classmates with whom I shared academic synergy and support but also trustworthy friends who were there for me in everyday life. I am grateful for the brief yet beautiful memories they have given me.

Master's Degree Candidate at the National University of Singapore

I found the Environmental Science curriculum to be remarkably diverse, encompassing aspects of biology, chemistry, engineering management, and more, along with engaging course experiments. We had the opportunity to choose classes aligned with our interests. Over the four years at UIC, I grew increasingly fond of this field, gaining numerous opportunities for personal enhancement and growth. The training in specialized courses, project design, teamwork, experiment planning, analysis, and reporting greatly aided my future studies and internships. Environmental Science also offered extensive field trips and practical experiences, allowing us to connect with nature intimately—visiting organic farms, wastewater treatment plants, and more—while engaging in in-depth discussions with industry professionals. There was ample interaction between faculty and students within the Environmental Science program. Beyond addressing academic queries, professors were eager to share their research experiences and career paths, providing advice; they also offered plenty of opportunities for internships and international exchange programs that broadened our perspectives and crystallized my future educational and career plans.

Master's Degree Candidate at the University of Edinburgh

The four years of study at UIC taught me not only knowledge but also the ability to learn and think independently, as well as how to perceive and address issues. UIC's unique teaching model and environment made these years particularly enriching. The succession of high-intensity academic tasks honed my stress resilience while teaching me how to manage and balance my time, achieving efficiency in studies without neglecting achievements in extracurricular activities. Moreover, UIC developed our teamwork abilities, English bilingual communication skills, and leadership capabilities. The rich array of extracurricular experiences precipitated many pivotal turning points in my life; joining the rugby team introduced me to a new passion and athletic skill set. The time spent with my Environmental Science cohort was a mix of challenges and triumphs. Beyond textbook knowledge, Environmental Science required students to possess strong independent thinking and practical skills. These four years laid a solid foundation, paving the way for my future graduate studies. I am sincerely grateful to the teachers and fellow students in the Environmental Science program.

Master’s in Environmental Science and Management at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Currently employed in the Science and Technology Management Office at the South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment

Reflecting on my four years at UIC, I find them to have been thoroughly fulfilling. Although each semester was relatively brief, the intensity of the learning tasks was significant. By the third and fourth years, spending long hours in the library had become a daily routine, and every group assignment and class presentation deepened my understanding of teamwork. I am grateful to UIC for ensuring I did not squander these four years of university and to the Environmental Science faculty for their constant support with coursework, enabling me to complete my undergraduate studies successfully.

The third year was the most academically demanding, yet it taught me how to manage time and self-regulate effectively. The curriculum largely consisted of specialized courses, and the Environmental Science professors were excellent, encouraging students to ask questions and engage in dialogue. Whenever we had doubts, we could approach them directly after class or arrange discussions via email. In the second semester of the third year, each professor provided different research topics for us to choose from, yet students could also propose their projects for discussion. This marked the beginning of an extensive journey into research, experimentation, literature review, and paper writing. I believe this was a period of rediscovery, which clarified my thoughts regarding the choice of specialization for graduate studies.

MSc Sustainable Resources: Economics, Policy and Transitions, University College London, UK

PhD, UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources

UIC's university life is rich and fulfilling. It allows me to improve in learning and grow personally. There were different challenges each semester which trained me to handle multiple tasks at the same time and to withstand stress. UIC has given me courage and encouragement to grow progressively. The university years pass so quickly and I wish to thank everyone I have met along the way.

Master in Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore

I decided to come to UIC when I was in my second year of high school, and I made the right choice. I grew tremendously in the four years of university. Assignments consisting of quizzes, term tests and group projects came one after another. Summer breaks were scheduled with internships, summer programs, IELTS and GRE courses. The intense learning was a unique experience in UIC which was fulfilling. The courses were taught in English and this gave us better English proficiency comparing to the graduates of other universities in Mainland China. With better English, we have the advantage in going for further studies abroad as well as in future employment.

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field with many pathways for future development. The four years of study has laid a good foundation for my master’s research. I feel proud to be in the big family of ENVS. My coursemates were friendly and cooperative. The teachers were very good too. There were close interactions between teachers and students. The environment was just great.

Master degree, Wageningen University

The four years in UIC passed so quickly. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the teachers, coursemates and friends who have given me help. They are precious assets to me. Environmental science is a subject with great potential. Environmental issues will be given more attention in future economic development. I am very optimistic about the future of environmental science graduates.

No matter what you study, the most important thing is interest and persistence. Although environmental science has heavy workloads every semester, I believe we will gain much by completing the tasks meticulously. Grades should not be the only target of learning though they are a proof of learning. We should learn as much as possible and undergraduate study is not the end of learning. There is more for us to explore and discover. Let's continue the journey.

Master's from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Pursuing a Doctorate in Geography and the Environment at the University of Texas at Austin

Three words might aptly encapsulate my experiences in the ENVS program: “Interdisciplinarity”—I acquired a wealth of cross-disciplinary knowledge and skills in environmental science, enabling me to further my studies in ecology while also nurturing an interest in areas like geographic information systems; “Interaction”—I received invaluable assistance from the delightful and dedicated faculty, who are both professional and responsible mentors, imparting on me a growing sense of rigor through assignments, exams, and internships; “Cohesion”—ENVS is a cohesive family. Despite conducting numerous correlation analyses, it is the “correlation” between classmates that is most cherished. The friendships forged over four years have significantly influenced my subsequent choices and development.

Master's from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Employed at the Integrated Conservation Center of the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Almost two months of graduate life have passed without my realizing it. Transitioning from the evergreen city of Zhuhai to Ann Arbor, where snow graces half the year, the constant has been the intense academic environment and the abundance of coursework. My four years at UIC taught me how to manage and utilize my time effectively, allowing me to seamlessly adapt to the pace of graduate studies in the United States. The theoretical knowledge and practical skills I gained during my undergraduate years have proven immensely beneficial in various graduate courses. There is an undeniable satisfaction in excelling in group assignments, sometimes even when my American peers are unsure. I am deeply grateful to UIC for equipping me with such strength over four years; every effort I invested there holds a profound significance for me now.

Master’s in Environmental Science from Wageningen University

Pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Toxicology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

My four years of study at UIC have etched three keywords into my identity: strict, professional, and proficient. UIC's curriculum instilled the principle of rigor in me from the very first year. I learned not only to write with precise and disciplined language but also to think rigorously, fostering an objective, comprehensive, and critical understanding of matters, which has greatly benefited both my life and studies. The specialized courses offered by the Environmental Science Program provided us with a solid foundation of knowledge, progressively deepening our understanding and equipping our minds with an abundance of specialized expertise. Under the high standards and stringent requirements set by the professors, my professional knowledge accumulated, empowering me to pursue further studies. Throughout my four years at UIC, whether studying on campus or participating in international exchanges, I have had numerous opportunities to challenge myself and acquire invaluable experiences.

Master's from University College London

UIC's English-only teaching model initially posed a challenge for me at the beginning of the term. However, I quickly adapted and embraced the British and American style of full English instruction, laying a solid foundation for my future studies abroad. Beyond the core courses, there were numerous general and elective courses that allowed us to explore and learn a wide array of topics. UIC's holistic approach cultivated our leadership, teamwork, study, and interpersonal skills, enabling us to effectively solve and manage problems both individually and within a team.

The campus offered a rich tapestry of extracurricular activities, such as lectures, forums, seminars, sports events, tug-of-war, cheerleading, dragon and lion dances, rugby matches, dances, plays, formal dinners, and a myriad of club activities. These provided students with countless platforms and opportunities to experience and engage, showcase themselves, discover their interests, and build a wider network. Although the university was not large, and the student body was not extensive, relationships seemed innately close. Even among strangers, familiarity developed quickly, with high levels of trust and responsibility.

The curriculum of Environmental Science covers a broad spectrum as it is an interdisciplinary field, aiming to instill in students a comprehensive understanding of the natural and human environment, the origins of environmental issues, and methods and techniques for analyzing and solving them. It also focuses on honing risk assessment skills and fostering a sustainable environmental mindset. Beyond classroom learning, the school frequently organized field trips and visits to compare theoretical knowledge with practical applications, study best practices and innovations, and discuss and analyze problematic cases, offering insights and suggestions. Furthermore, the practical sessions in biology and chemistry labs familiarized us with the use of basic reagents and instruments, materials testing and identification, as well as data processing and analysis, laying a strong foundation for future research. I am deeply grateful for all that my alma mater has provided, without which my current achievements would not have been possible.

Master's from Wageningen University, Netherlands

Pursuing a Ph.D. in Ecoscience at Aarhus University, Denmark

In the year of my college entrance exams, my family and I carefully chose UIC, believing that regardless of how well professional knowledge was grasped, at the very least, my English proficiency would improve. After four years, not only did my English skills advance, but I also developed an international thinking approach and broadened my perspective significantly. At UIC, most of our teachers hail from abroad or Hong Kong, and many of my friends come from middle-class families. The school offers numerous opportunities for international exchange, allowing us to see, hear, and experience much more widely than most. UIC serves as a springboard that connects China with the international realm. Once we gather sufficient strength, it empowers us to soar higher and see further.

My chosen field of study—Environmental Science—is an inherently interdisciplinary discipline. Upon enrollment, one can focus on various directions, leaning either towards humanities (such as environmental management) or towards sciences (such as ecology, water/air/soil science). The program may be modest in size, but every teacher is remarkably dedicated, and the academic rigor has greatly benefited me.

Life at UIC is demanding, the academic atmosphere is intense, and the competition is quite fierce, which is immensely character-building. Under the high pressure, UIC students might cry out for relief, but after graduation, they silently appreciate this invaluable experience.

Master's Degree from the University of Melbourne

Choosing UIC was the most judicious decision I've ever made, and the unwavering support from my parents only solidified my choice. Much of my time at UIC was spent in the library and study rooms, as the absence of traditional classes and homeroom teachers granted students greater independence and freedom in managing their academic lives. My four years at UIC can truly be described as transformative; various presentations, group projects, assignments, and deadlines posed as challenges, and only after overcoming each hurdle and looking back to my former self do I realize how profoundly I've changed. My gratitude for UIC is enduring, and I strive to grow, hoping for continued excellence at UIC. The university provided me with an exceptional platform, and the experiences over those four years have made me more confident and self-reliant, serving as a perfect foundation and transition for my decision to pursue graduate studies abroad.

University of California, Santa Barbara - Master's Degree

Currently Pursuing a Doctorate at the University of Tennessee, USA

Unconsciously, I find myself on the verge of leaving UIC after four years, and the thought fills me with reluctance. I have become accustomed to life at UIC—the anticipation before course selection, the busyness throughout the semester, the tension and anxiety before final exams, and the fulfilling plans for winter and summer breaks after exams. Over these four years, I have personally witnessed the rapid development of UIC, while UIC has also borne witness to every step of my growth. I have seen the school devote all its efforts to providing us with the finest resources and the best environment for personal development. My deepest gratitude goes out to all the staff and fellow students at UIC, especially those in the Environmental Science department—your companionship has granted me the most unforgettable university experience and cherished memories!