Over the summer, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the "Discover at HUST 'AI Robot International ' Summer School" hosted by the School of Mechanical Science and Engineering at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) in Wuhan, China. Over four transformative weeks, I gained not only technical knowledge in robotics and artificial intelligence but also immersed myself in the Chinese language, culture, and friendships that I will cherish for a lifetime.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The academic aspect of the program was top-notch. Topics ranged from robot kinematics and machine learning algorithms to real-world industrial applications of AI in China. What made the sessions truly engaging was how theory was combined with practice.
One of my favourite sessions involved collaborating in teams to design simple robotic arms using simulation tools. I appreciated how approachable the professors were, always encouraging us to ask questions and explore beyond the syllabus.
Discovering Wuhan: A City Full of Surprises
Wuhan was a vibrant, fascinating city to explore. We visited the Yellow Crane Tower, an iconic symbol of Wuhan’s history, and strolled by the Yangtze River in the evening. The East Lake area was a favourite of mine; cycling along its banks at sunset was surreal.
We also had a weekend trip to the Three Gorges Dam, where we witnessed the scale of China’s infrastructure. This outing provided a welcome respite from our academic focus.
Connections That Transcend Borders
Perhaps the most valuable part of this program was the people I met. Whether it was staying up late chatting about robotics and TV shows, bonding over bubble tea, or struggling through a group project together, every interaction helped me grow.
Final Reflections
Participating in the HUST summer program has been one of the most enriching experiences of my academic life. It combined rigorous learning with cultural immersion in an environment that encouraged collaboration, exploration, and fun. I returned more confident, not only in my technical skills but also in navigating new cultures and perspectives.
