Graduate Class of 2025

Name: Liu Songyue
Program: Master’s in Geography (Urban and Regional Planning)
Advisor: Professor Wu Jiansheng
Hometown: Chongqing, China
Undergraduate Institution: Sichuan University
Hobbies: Film appreciation, English, Music
Post-Graduation Plan: Selected for civil service in Chongqing

Career, Ph.D., or Public Service? A Path of Clarity through Confusion

Liu Songyue is candid about the indecision that marked her early postgraduate years. “Do I get a job? Pursue a Ph.D.? Try public service? Each choice felt tempting—and terrifying.” Like many, she initially tried to balance multiple paths, applying for jobs while preparing for doctoral programs and public service exams. But she soon realized that something had to give.

In the end, she chose what felt most aligned with her temperament and strengths: people-centered, socially engaged work in the public sector.

“Looking back on my life and experiences, I’ve realized I enjoy working with people more than diving deep into academic research. After finishing my thesis, I saw clearly—Ph.D. life just isn’t for me right now.”

She reflects on her choice with maturity and calm:

·First, if a decision is hard to make, it usually means all the options are good.

·Second, every path offers its own unique beauty.

·Third, never torture yourself with “what ifs.” Choose with confidence, and keep moving forward.

“If I learned anything, it’s that there’s no perfect answer—only the best fit for you, right now.”

Graduate Life: Realistic Goals, Personal Pace

Liu describes her time at Peking University as deeply personal. While others may take different approaches, she found value in having a general roadmap:

·Year 1: Attend classes seriously, explore interests, dabble in student work

·Year 2: Narrow focus, commit to research or leadership, balance if you can—prioritize if you can’t

·Year 3: Job search or Ph.D. applications start early, often as soon as the second semester of Year 2

She also recommends:

·Staying physically active

·Applying early for exchange programs (plan a full year in advance)

·Exploring short-term global opportunities via PKU’s International Office

“There’s no one-size-fits-all trajectory. Build your own—and be kind to yourself while doing it.”

How to Stand Out as an “Outstanding Graduate”

Liu shares four thoughtful tips:

1.Show balance. Holistic development matters—don’t neglect any core areas.

2.Craft a hook. Your personal story, your unique angle—make it memorable.

3.Seek guidance. Learn from previous awardees, ask questions, be humble.

4.Stay grounded. Treat the application process as a moment to reflect, not just a race to win.

“Even if you don’t get the title, the process itself is a gift. I realized during my application: I haven’t wasted these years after all.”

On Failure and Imperfection

“I call myself a ‘five-sided warrior with one limping leg.’”

Liu reflects with honesty on her regret: a lack of depth in academic research. Despite strengths in leadership, community engagement, and campus life, she admits that scientific research remained a shortcoming.

“Real research demands stillness, patience, and solitude—traits I’m still working on.”

She urges others to cherish their time in graduate school and take full advantage of PKU’s academic resources.

Gratitude

“My deepest thanks go to Professor Wu Jiansheng. His wisdom, warmth, and unwavering support gave me both the freedom to explore and the courage to choose.”

She also thanks the tight-knit 328 research group, her friends, peers, and most of all—her parents.

“Thank you for lifting me up, standing behind me, and loving me through it all.”

Words for the Future

“Growth takes many forms. Some bloom early, others later. All are worthy. All are beautiful.”

Honors and Achievements

·Awards:

oOutstanding Graduate of Peking University

oTriple-A Student, PKU

oOutstanding Student Leader and League Member

oExcellent Social Practice Individual (Lixing Program)

oSports honors in track and field and swimming events at PKU Shenzhen

·Research:

oOne published SCI paper

oParticipant in a National Natural Science Foundation key project

·Leadership:

oChair, Graduate Student Union, School of Urban Planning and Design

oChief Editor, Creative Division, PKU Youth Newspaper