Dialogue@ZJU: With HU Hao and QI Bote, the recipients of the Chu Kochen Scholarship

[Editor's note: HU Hao and QI Bote are the recipients of Chu Kochen Scholarship (the highest honor bestowed upon ZJU students) and volunteers at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. HU, a postgraduate student majoring in Mechanical Engineering, has been dedicated to researching high-resolution tactile perception during his master's studies, and developing large-scale flexible magnetic sensor devices and super-resolution clustering algorithms, with his research results published in ACS Nano and holding two authorized patents. QI Bote, a doctoral student majoring in Sports Education and Training, focuses on research in the field of sports-related concussions. He also served as a volunteer representative for the 19th Asian Games torch relay.]

Q1: Both of you have achieved outstanding results in scientific research. Could you share your research experiences with us?

HU: I believe that scientific research is a collaborative endeavor. While my background is in mechanical engineering, some aspects of my research require integrating principles from computer science. Whenever I face challenges, I seek advice from my peers in computer science, whose insights have proven invaluable. When confronted with problems beyond my expertise, turning to teachers and classmates for guidance often leads to significant breakthroughs. Seeking help and collaborating with others is essential in scientific research and can spark great inspiration.

QI: My major has strong interdisciplinary characteristics. To make breakthroughs in this field, it's necessary to pay attention to interdisciplinary learning, broaden cognitive boundaries, and find new inspiration from other disciplines. This process may be tedious and confusing, but that is the essence of research life. For example, my first paper underwent nearly 20 revisions under the guidance of my supervisor before it was finalized. As long as you do what needs to be done and take solid and strong steps, you will eventually find joy in scientific research and explore a broader world.

Q2: Could you share your experiences as volunteers at the Asian Games?

HU: During the Asian Games, I had the opportunity to serve for the Prince of Bhutan and his delegation. The prince showed keen interest in Chinese clothing culture. In Bhutan, traditional clothing is commonly worn in the workplace, so the prince wanted to select some Chinese silk to bring back to Bhutan for their traditional attire. At the Silk Street, he selected various silk fabrics for his friends and also purchased West Lake Longjing tea as a special gift. As I assisted the prince in selecting silk and introduced him to our traditional culture, I felt a deep sense of our country's historical heritage. 

HU Hao (the left) , as a volunteer at the Asian Games

QI: During the games, which coincided with the Mid-Autumn Festival, I had the privilege of inviting the Vice Chairman of the Thai Olympic Committee, Mr. Charoen Wattanasin, and his wife to participate in a volunteer gala for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Despite being 86 years old, the Vice Chairman actively joined us on stage and sang The Moon Represents My Heart with young volunteers, creating a heartwarming moment that transcended race, nationality, and age. 

Q3: As enthusiasts of sports, how does your passion benefit your scientific research?

HU: Having participated in numerous rugby matches, I have come to understand the importance of teamwork through sports. In a rugby match, scoring a point often results from the collective effort of teammates creating space and opportunities. Effective communication among team members is critical for swift progress in the game. These principles of teamwork and communication from sports have greatly influenced my approach to scientific research and daily life, enabling me to tackle challenges by engaging with mentors, senior colleagues, and peers.

QI: My choice to major in sports education stemmed from my desire to become an outstanding sports educator, inspired by my own teacher. I aim to raise awareness about athletes through my profession and contribute to the advancement of competitive sports. Engaging in sports has endowed me with physical strength and fostered a more inclusive and open-minded outlook. Competitive sports, in my view, serve as a lesson in resilience, teaching me how to gracefully accept setbacks and persevere in the face of adversity.

Q4: Do you have any words of encouragement for your fellow students? 

HU: Communicate with and learn from others more, and gain from the collision of inspiration.

QI: Each individual has their unique journey. There is no concept of being behind or ahead, only progressing at the right pace. Stay true to your passions and aspirations, striving to be the best version of yourself.

Adapted and translated from the article written by ZONG Ran, XU Ke and ZHENG Zhe
Translator: WANG Qiuyu ( '26, Journalism)
Photo: the interviewees
Editor: HAN Xiao ( '25 PhD, Education), TIAN Minjie