The Joint Institute held a town hall meeting at the Yu Liming Student Center on December 5th. Dean Peisen Huang, as well as Gang Zheng, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, and Scott Yang, Academic Affairs Manager, attended the face-to-face meeting with students, giving updates on JI’s current status and discussing issues concerning curriculum, graduate placement, and campus living, etc.
Dean Huang reported on the new decisions approved by JI’s 16th board meeting. He unveiled the new JI + UM Ross 4+ 1 Program and JI- KTH 3+2 Program which will kick off in fall 2015; besides, nearly 20 universities from all over the world, including from Europe, Japan, Korea, and Australia, have shown interest in exchange programs with JI; JI is considering bilateral dual–degree programs with some international universities; the new discipline of Material Sciences and Engineering (MSE) will start in fall 2015 and expand students’ choice of dual degrees; the construction of the new JI building will begin in March 2015, and JI can expect to move in by the end of 2016.
Associate Dean Zheng answered students’ questions related to curriculum, teaching facilities, and career counseling. He promised that JI would try to improve the class scheduling to meet students’ needs. He encouraged students to feedback directly to the instructors concerning teaching materials and test schedules. JI will give careful consideration on all-night study hall due to safety concerns. JI’s system of teaching assistants is unique at SJTU and comparable to American universities; Zheng encouraged students to apply to become TAs for career development purpose, which will be open to graduate students as well. JI graduates will be invited in the spring Homecoming to share their study or job experiences with current students.
There is a surge of interest in the new JI + UM Ross 4+ 1 Program. JI will find out if GMAT test is required for admission and ensure smooth application process.
Many students are interested in the PRP projects and JI will encourage instructor involvement and provide necessary assistance to help students find their research interests.
At conclusion of the meeting, Dean Huang emphasized that JI advocates Open Door Policy and the town hall meeting is a channel for students to knock at the door, give suggestion, and help JI improve.
