JI student invited to speak at global summit of woman engineers

In December 2015, University of Michigan- Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI) senior student Minkuan Yan was invited by Kimberly Stevenson, Intel’s global Chief Information Officer (CIO), to speak at a global summit of woman engineers in Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India. At the Grace Hopper Conference she delivered a brilliant speech entitled “Butterfly Effect and China Internet +” and received wide praises from other participants.
“Grace Hopper Conference,” named after Grace Hopper, the first lady of computer software, is the world’s largest gathering of woman engineers, with the aim to raise women’s social consciousness and enhance their strength and confidence in carrier and life. It has been 20 years since its inception.

At the conference, through a fascinating story Yan demonstrated China’s recent rapid development and technological innovation in the financial and commercial applications of the Internet. She noted that the applications such as “Alipay,” “Hungry?” have created not just wealth but a complete environment. As a curious young person who loves new things, Yan shared her life experiences in the United States as well as insights from her software development internship at Intel. She presented her perception of Internet and analyzed the butterfly effect in the development of the Internet. Her unique presentation of the fascinating topic won accolade from the audience.

For a long time, JI has maintained close links with Intel, Microsoft, General Motors, Siemens and many other multinational companies and continued providing them with outstanding graduates and interns. It was through her internship with Intel that Yan caught this precious opportunity. In November last year, during Kimberly Stevenson’s biannual visit to Shanghai from Intel headquarters at the review of Shanghai’s development and achievements, Yan, as an intern, presented her insight and analysis of China’s internet applications in finance and commerce. Stevenson was deeply impressed and invited Yan to give a speech at the global summit of women in science and technology.

In daily life, Yan has many hobbies. She loves science, technology and innovation. While attending a high school affiliated with SJTU with focus on science and technology, she won the second prize in National Youth Innovation Competition, third prize in Pacific region VEX Robotics Competition and bronze award in Global Sustainable Development Summit (Engineering category). At JI, she has been deeply involved in research, applying her knowledge to daily living. She has participated in a number of activities in scientific and technological innovation and had outstanding performance in Vg 100 project, course projects and SJTU students innovative projects.

In addition, Yan loves arts and plays violin very well. She has performed in many occasions such as the opening ceremony, farewell party, community outreach activities and corporate parties. As a brilliant engineering student with artistic talents, she is a well-rounded model for JI students.