Graduate Class of 2025

Name: Hu Banshao
Program: Master’s in Geography (Urban and Regional Planning)
Advisor: Assistant Professor Tang Junqing
Hometown: Ningbo, Zhejiang Province
Undergraduate Institution: China Agricultural University
Hobbies: Archery & Equestrian, Photography, Rowing

Learning: Expansive and Self-Directed

To Hu Banshao, graduate study at Peking University was defined by autonomy and growth. With coursework that spans disciplines and emphasizes the instructor’s own research, she embraced the chance to shape her own academic journey.

“You’re free to explore across areas—urban planning is inherently interdisciplinary. The more perspectives you engage with, the richer your understanding becomes.”

In research, she encourages early action. “No one knows your topic better than you and your advisor,” she reflects. “Start early, talk often, and never isolate yourself in your own head. Collaboration sparks clarity.”

Hu also recommends taking advantage of PE and general education courses, from rowing and tennis to outdoor leadership training—“they nourish more than just the mind.”

Facing Difficulties: Stay Grounded, Start Moving

“Challenges are inevitable,” Hu shares. “But so is growth—if you know how to face them.”

Her approach:

1.Let go of the victim mindset. Protect your energy, not just your time.

2.Talk it out. Even if others haven’t faced the same issue, their stories might unlock something for you.

3.Accept help. Vulnerability is not weakness—asking for support is powerful.

4.Just begin. Perfection can come later. Action is always the first step.

“Many times, the world is warmer than we expect. When you release the pressure to be ‘fine,’ you make space for real solutions.”

Career Choices: You Learn by Doing

When she arrived at Peking University, Hu considered academia like many of her peers. But after rounds of internships and reflection, she chose a different direction.

“There’s no hierarchy of worth between academia and the workplace. What matters is alignment—with your strengths, interests, and pace.”

She urges students to explore widely: attend recruitment talks, try internships, observe how different roles feel in daily life.

“One interviewer once told me: ‘You’re one of the best candidates I’ve met—just breathe. The answers you’re looking for will come.’ I want to pass that message on.”

On the Meaning of “Outstanding”

“At one point, I tried to be the ‘perfect template’ of an excellent student. But that effort muted some of my individuality.”

She reflects that at Peking University, nearly everyone is impressive. But not everyone fits the mold—and that’s okay. Instead of chasing a checklist, she suggests:

·Build depth in one or two areas, while being well-rounded elsewhere

·Honor your uniqueness, not just your accomplishments

·Redefine excellence as both competence and authenticity

“To me, a truly outstanding graduate is someone who can thrive in a competitive world without erasing who they are.”

Lessons from Setbacks

“Success is often predictable. Failure? That’s where we learn the most.”

Hu admits that overthinking and emotional sensitivity once held her back. “I’d spiral when things didn’t go well—whether it was a research result or a race,” she recalls.

But over time, she learned to focus less on outcomes and more on the process. “We fell behind in the first 500 meters of a rowing race—but our team rallied and won. That taught me: a poor start doesn’t define the finish.”

“If you focus on doing your part well and consistently, the result often surprises you. Resilience isn’t loud—it’s quiet, steady, and transformative.”

A Message to Fellow Students

“Life is vast. So is your strength. Don’t get trapped by temporary setbacks or narrow definitions of success. Keep going—you’ll find your way.”

Honors and Achievements

·Awards:

oOutstanding Graduate of Peking University

o“Triple-A” Student of Peking University

oOutstanding Contributor Award

oBest Presentation Award, GSCS & ICUI

oTwo golds and two silvers at the X9 Rowing League (Mixed Eight)

·Academic Work:

oTwo first-author SCI/EI papers

oThree licensed software copyrights

·Leadership and Involvement:

oPresident, Archery Association, PKU Shenzhen

oCore Member, Jiaolong Rowing Team

oHead of Photography, Student News Team

oMental Health Representative, 2022 Master’s Cohort