Academic Event｜Inaugural EdTalk at GSE, BFSU: “Ups and Downs: What Do We Gain from Pursuing a PhD?” Successfully Launched
On June 3rd, 2026, the Graduate School of Education (GSE) successfully held the first session of its new student-led English-language series, EdTalk. The event, themed “Ups and Downs: What Do We Gain from Pursuing a PhD?”, featured three doctoral candidates — Wang Yaling, Meng Haoxuan, and Ma Xuanwei — who shared their research findings and academic journeys.
Their presentations explored factor analysis in comparative education, the interpretation of “international” in basic education, and the logic behind Chinese elite universities’ participation in Belt & Road education cooperation. The speakers also candidly reflected on the challenges and personal growth they experienced during their PhD studies.
Meng Haoxuan presenting his research, with an attentive audience.
The event continued with Wang Xue, PhD researcher, and Zheng Tiancheng, Master’s student, joining as panelists. They raised questions relevant to many peers, including time management, internship opportunities, career planning, and the unique challenges faced by female researchers. The conversation was lively and heartfelt, with the speakers offering practical advice: integrate internships with research, build peer and family support networks, overcome self‑limiting beliefs, and begin career planning early. Their responses were specific, grounded, and deeply moving.
A lively roundtable discussion on the challenges and rewards of PhD research.
About 20 attendees participated, including GSE faculty and international teachers from other departments. The atmosphere was engaging and cheerful. Many found the event to be a professional, effective, and mutually empowering experience, which was full of genuine support and sincere dialogue.
Associate Professor Jáfia Naftali Câmara, Assistant Professor Xu Mo, and volunteers (Sun Yuhan; Luo Huiqi）ensured the event ran smoothly and warmly. Refreshments and coffee were served. EdTalk aims to connect students from different cohorts and stages, guiding them through academic life with clarity and confidence.
The series will continue in September 2026, with approximately one session per month. All are welcome to join.
Group photo of all attendees, marking a successful conclusion to the inaugural EdTalk.
All photos by Han Yang
Written by｜Wang Xue; Xin Yuxuan
Reviewed by｜Jáfia Naftali Câmara; Tu Duanwu
Post-production by｜Kou Kunzhao
