From the dynamic lecture halls to the state-of-the-art research facilities, and from the quiet administrative offices to the bustling student centers, every member of Sun Yat-sen University’s staff and faculty embodies the spirit of dedication and service. This International Workers’ Day, we shine a spotlight on the diverse roles that together nurture academic excellence, foster campus vitality, and uphold the university’s mission.

Zhao Ran: Six Years of Dedication to Publishing at Sun Yat-sen University Press

Zhao Ran

Zhao Ran has worked at Sun Yat-sen University Press for six years. She started as a proofreader and later transitioned to an editor role. Recalling her early days as a proofreader, she vividly remembers a late-night experience with an urgent manuscript. After several days of overtime, she finally completed the proofreading past 11 p.m. one evening and she noticed the lights still burning in the editorial office, which left her a lasting impression.

Now as an editor, Zhao continues to work tirelessly behind the scenes, contributing to the publication of academic and cultural works. Her goal remains consistent with many in the publishing field: to produce more high-quality books that stand the test of time.

As International Worker’ Day approaches, Zhao extends her heartfelt wish to every laborer: May each worker be seen, and may every effort yield due reward. Her story encapsulates the quiet dedication of those in publishing, where late nights and meticulous care translate into enduring contributions—a testament to the pride of labor.

Hu Weilin & Lin Zikai: Brightening Lives Through Ophthalmic Dedication

Hu Weiling (right) and Lin Zikai (left)

Hu Weiling and Lin Zikai physicians at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of SYSU.

For Hu, working at the Ophthalmic Center is more than a career—it’s a precious platform for growth. Chosen through a mutual fit between her aspirations and the center’s mission, this professional journey continues to deliver profound rewards, blending emotional fulfillment with professional achievement. “The deepest lesson from my work,” she shared, “is understanding the true essence of 'helping others'—how small acts of care can transform lives.”

Lin echoes this sentiment deeply. Recalling his experiences at free medical clinics, he says, “When I see elderly patients and children in remote areas regain clear vision because we detected their eye conditions in time, every challenge fades away. That moment makes it all worthwhile.” Driven by this purpose, he envisions expanding the reach of 5G smart ophthalmic patrol vehicles to more urban and rural communities, aiming to bring the gift of sight to those who need it most.

For future goals, Hu stays focused on professional growth: “I hope to keep enhancing my skills and contribute more value through teamwork.”

Li Jing: Nurturing Academic Growth at SYSU

Li Jing

Li Jing, a professor at School of Information Management, has dedicated herself to teaching and research for six years at SYSU. Among her many memorable experiences, the growth of her first doctoral student stands out profoundly. Hailing from an interdisciplinary and cross-institutional background, this student joined the program as what Li describes as “a blank slate.” Through patient guidance, the student evolved from foundational learning to mastering advanced theories and research methodologies in the discipline. The transformation culminated in publishing multiple high-impact academic papers and establishing clear life goals, a journey that fills Li with immense pride.

Educating students is like nurturing a tree. Li reflected, “Witnessing their continuous development and progress through education is the greatest joy of being a teacher.” Her philosophy emphasizes not only academic cultivation but also holistic growth, guiding students to realize their potential.

Looking ahead, Li envisions integrating AI robots as teaching assistants to enhance efficiency. This innovation, she believes, will enable her to deliver more cutting-edge, vivid, and engaging course content, ensuring students stay at the forefront of knowledge in an ever-evolving academic landscape.

Wu Yongqiang: Ensuring Smooth Academic Journeys for Faculty and Students

Wu Yongqiang

Wu Yongqiang, an undergraduate academic secretary at School of Electronics and Information Technology of SYSU, describes his six-year career as “a journey guided by fate and serendipity.” As a psychology graduate and natural communicator, Wu thrives on building connections with faculty and students alike. For him, every interaction represents an opportunity to explore new perspectives and strengthen collaborative networks.

His role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities—from course scheduling and exam coordination to student records management—all requiring meticulous collaboration with various stakeholders.

Beyond logistics, Wu serves as a safety net for students. In one instance, his keen eye identified a student who had missed a make-up exam registration. Thanks to his timely intervention, the student completed the exam and graduated on schedule.

For Wu, professional fulfillment stems from two intertwined missions: keeping administrative gears turning smoothly and ensuring students graduate successfully.

Guiding Growth: The Counselors’ Journey of Mentorship and Mutual Learning

Wu Guikun

Wu Guikun, a counselor at the International School of Business Finance, has spent nine years at Sun Yat-sen University—from undergraduate to master’s student, and now in his current role. The university’s rich academic and humanistic environment, its accomplished community of faculty and students, and the counselor position’s focus on mutual learning with students have made this role a perfect fit for his professional aspirations.

In his work, Wu leverages his close age and shared academic background with students to build meaningful connections, walking alongside them and resonating with their experiences. As each class graduates, the gratitude and well-wishes he receives stand as the most cherished rewards of his efforts.

On this Labor Day, Wu hoped that “everyone can find their own rhythm in study, life, and work.”

Ding Xiaoyi

Like Wu Guikun, Ding Xiaoyi, a counselor from Zhongshan School of Medicine, carries a deep passion for her profession. With five years of experience as an undergraduate teaching secretary, she approaches students facing academic challenges with dedicated support—carefully analyzing key course content for their majors and guiding them in crafting personalized study plans.

“Seeing students gradually build confidence feels like watching a light being lit in their hearts,” she shared. “And that light also illuminates my own confidence in this career path.”

Liu Wenhui & Huang Feifei: Safeguarding Science at SYSU

Liu Wenhui(right), Huang Feifei(left)

Liu Wenhui, a resident safety officer at the Shenzhen campus of SYSU, has been a witness to the campus's pivotal growth—from construction phases to its academic launch. As new teaching buildings neared completion and laboratories prepared for operation, he took on the critical task of establishing lab safety protocols, shuttling regularly between Shenzhen and Guangzhou to ensure compliance with rigorous standards. His commitment ensures that cutting-edge facilities are not just functional, but safe foundations for scientific exploration.

Huang Feifei, serving in experimental teaching support and laboratory management at the School of Materials, views her role as more than administrative support: it’s a bridge linking academic theory with practical application. “My goal is to be a steadfast partner for faculty, and enable students to engage in experiments with both safety and confidence,” she said.

Across every corner of SYSU, countless dedicated individuals devote themselves to their roles—whether in the classroom, the laboratory, or behind the scenes. Through passion and perseverance, they embody the true spirit of labor. This International Workers’ Day, we pay tribute to all SYSU faculty and staff, whose commitment and hard work continue to uphold the legacy and aspirations of this century-old university.

Photographer: Chen Kaijia, Wang Zhongxi, Chen Caiming, Wang Xichen, Li Zheng Qian, Zhang Yan